I'm a UK citizen who is working in a permanent position in a lab at a university in the US. The job is super easy, isn't the most fulfilling/challenging and I miss doing research, but it's conveniently where my partner, a US citizen, grew up and studied so she knows the area well. The job pays pretty well by UK standards (equivalent of £50K approx from USD) and they've sponsored my visa to work, I've been working there for 6 months. The most recent hire is not nearly as qualified as me i.e doesn't have a PhD, hasnt worked in a lab in many years and is on the same pay which is frustrating and there is no promotion opportunities whatsoever and no room for pay raise.
I got awarded a JSPS fellowship (360,000 Yen/month, although if I'm right in thinking I'll have to pay pension, residence tax) to go to Tokyo for 18 months. I've visited the labs before, not the most glamorous but doing neat science. I'd be going out there for the love of it more than anything else. I'd also be forfeiting my visa, job/financial stability and I wouldn't have a guaranteed way of making it back to my partner in the US.
I initially felt a lot of sorrow because when I was offered JSPS I was sad to think of having to turn it down. I love Japan dearly from a cultural and lifestyle and have a lot of time and respect for my Japanese collaborators.
My head says US as that is likely the most responsible route, my heart says Japan.
What do I do? I fear I may regret not going.
by Muted_Piccolo4992