Learning within the Japanese community: a lived experience of a postdoctoral fellow in science education

Purpose This study investigates my lived experiences as a postdoctoral fellow in Japan, focusing on professional expectations and cultural adaptation within an intercultural academic setting. The research addresses the central inquiry: What are the lived experiences of a postdoctoral fellow in Japan? Design/methodology/approach Employing a phenomenological research design and narrative inquiry, this frames individuals as “storied beings” whose experiences are shaped by their social contexts. Through autoethnography, I documented my 24-month immersion within a Japanese academic community, utilizing journal writing and ethnographic observation. These reflective accounts were analyzed using hermeneutic phenomenology, providing a nuanced interpretation of my unique journey. Findings Key highlights of these experiences entail securing and maximizing research funds, lesson study immersion and teaching observation, collaboration and mentoring and observing, appreciating and adapting the Japanese way of life and culture. Originality/value This research contributes to the discourse on global academic mobility by exploring the impact of an immersive fellowship on professional and personal development. It addresses gaps in the literature regarding such immersive experiences, enhancing understanding of research practices, quality teaching and cross-cultural collaboration.