The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) is an independent administrative institution, established by the Japanese Government, for the purpose of contributing to the advancement of science in all fields of the natural and social sciences and the humanities.  It provides research awards to promote collaborative research between Japanese and American scholars, funds academic symposia, and provides fellowships for faculty and doctoral students.  More information about JSPS and its functions can be found at http://www.jsps.go.jp/english/.