Original news source:https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HtfNRWLSz/?mibextid=wwXIfr
A major opportunity has opened for Indian researchers as the FY2026 LOTUS Programme officially begins accepting applications. Spearheaded by the Japan Science and Technology Agency, the initiative aims to strengthen academic collaboration between India and Japan by supporting graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in pursuing research exchanges in Japan.
This year’s call marks a significant expansion, with plans to support around 1,000 participants, a substantial increase from previous editions. The programme continues to build momentum as a key platform for fostering innovation, joint research, and cross-border academic partnerships.
The LOTUS Programme enables Indian students and researchers to work on joint research projects under the guidance of principal investigators from both India and Japan. It is designed to promote collaborative research, skill development, and long-term academic relationships between institutions in the two countries.
A major highlight of the 2026 edition is the launch of the LOTUS-ASPIRE scheme, an advanced track offering extended support for high-impact research. While the standard LOTUS Basic programme continues, LOTUS-ASPIRE provides a more comprehensive framework for long-term collaboration.
LOTUS Basic (Current Scheme):
● Eligibility: Master’s and PhD students
● Duration: Up to 12 months
● Support: Living expenses and partial travel costs
● Objective: Build foundational collaboration and joint supervision
LOTUS-ASPIRE (New Scheme):
● Eligibility: Postdoctoral researchers (under 40 years)
● Duration: Up to 36 months
● Support: Living expenses plus research funding
● Objective: Generate tangible research outcomes and strengthen advanced collaboration
Applicants can apply in a wide range of high-priority areas, including:
● AI, Information, and Intelligent Robotics
● Biotechnology
● Energy
● Materials Science
● Quantum Science
● Semiconductors
● Network and Telecommunications
Interdisciplinary proposals aligned with these fields are also encouraged.
The programme has seen rapid growth in recent years. In FY2024, 55 participants from 22 institutions were selected, which increased to 300 participants from 78 institutions in FY2025. The FY2026 expansion reflects a strong commitment to scaling up India–Japan research collaboration.
● Application Period: March 13 – June 9, 2026 (12:00 JST deadline)
Applications must be submitted through the official platform, with proposals led by a principal investigator based in a Japanese university or research institution. Interested candidates are encouraged to review the detailed guidelines and apply early.
With its expanded scope and the introduction of LOTUS-ASPIRE, the FY2026 LOTUS Programme stands as a powerful gateway for Indian researchers to gain international exposure, contribute to cutting-edge innovation, and deepen academic ties between India and Japan.
