The Gen Foundation

The Gen Foundation is a charitable trust which principally provides grants to students/researchers in natural sciences, in particular food sciences/technology.

The Gen Foundation was registered with the Charity Commission on 14th August 1998.  The aim of the Foundation is to enhance the importance of cross-cultures between Japan and the rest of the world in today's global society.

The Foundation is supporting those who excel in the areas of natural sciences, in particular food sciences/technology.

Since 1998, awards have been granted to over 100 people studying or researching within these fields.  Successful candidates are asked to submit a report to the Trustees at the end of their studies.

All potential candidates should be aware that the Gen Foundation grants are one-off, non-renewable awards.

The GF considers applicants living in all countries.

• The amount of each grant is based on the merits of each application, and is set at the Trustees' discretion.  
• Previous grants have ranged between £500 - £5,000.

To be eligible for a Gen Foundation grant, an applicant:

• Must study and/or research in the field of natural sciences, in particular food sciences/technology and
• Should hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

The Foundation does not support undergraduates, short-term training, conferences, seminars, or thesis writing.  Such applications will not be considered.

• The GF considers applicants living in all countries.
• Applicants are studying the relevant subjects: natural sciences, in particular food sciences/technology.

The application form must be completed in English and submitted with all of the supporting documents listed below no later than 28th February 2025. Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.

Download a copy of the application form. (The application period for 2025 has now closed. 2026 Application Form will be available from November 2025

• Typed applications only; handwritten applications will not be considere
• English only

One recent passport-sized photograph

• Attached to application form
• Portraits will not be accepted

An up-to-date curriculum vitae (resume) English only

TWO original and signed letters of reference

• References should be provided by professionals, preferably by those who are familiar with your abilities in the subject field in which you are applying for funding.
• English or Japanese
• Not photocopied
• Not scanned
• Not emailed

Evidence of acceptance by an organisation/institution

• Evidence of a conditional letter is acceptable
• Photocopied or Original

Post the application form and all supporting documents to the following address. Applications should arrive no later than 28th of February 2025:

• The Administrator
  The Gen Foundation
  33 Cornhill
  London
  EC3V 3ND
  United Kingdom

Documents Required

• Application Form
• Academic Transcripts
• Passport-Sized Photograph
• Curriculum Vitae (resume)
• Two References