LOTUS Programme FY2026 – Funded Research Opportunities for Indian Students and Researchers in Japan

Description

Add as a preferred source on Google

The Japanese government has launched the LOTUS Programme FY2026, inviting applications from nearly 1,000 Indian students and researchers at the Master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral levels. This initiative provides an opportunity to undertake funded research stays at leading universities and research institutions in Japan.

The programme forms part of the India-Japan Circulation of Talented Youths in Science Programme, aiming to strengthen bilateral scientific collaboration and offer young Indian researchers international exposure and career development opportunities.

Eligibility and Application Process

The LOTUS Programme is open to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers under 40 years of age, currently affiliated with Indian universities or research institutes. Applicants cannot apply independently; instead, their application must be submitted by a Principal Investigator (PI) based in a Japanese university or research institution, who will serve as their host.

The application window is open until June 9, 2026 (12:00 JST). Applications will be reviewed between June and August, with final results expected in late August. Selected participants will start their research stays from October 2026.

Direct Link To Apply For Japan’s LOTUS Programme

Research Areas and Academic Focus

The programme emphasizes high-impact and emerging research fields, including:

• Artificial intelligence

• Biotechnology

• Energy research

• Materials science

• Quantum technology

• Semiconductors

• Telecommunications

Applicants working in related interdisciplinary domains aligned with these core areas may also be considered.

Two Tracks for FY2026

This year, the LOTUS Programme offers two tracks:

• LOTUS Basic – Supports short-term research stays up to 12 months, focusing on building foundational collaboration through joint supervision.

• LOTUS-ASPIRE – A newly introduced track offering longer engagements of up to 36 months. This track emphasizes outcome-driven research, with expanded funding and structured evaluation of joint outputs.

Funding and Benefits

Selected participants receive a monthly stipend of approximately Rs 1.4 lakh for living expenses, including accommodation. Additional funding is provided depending on the track, covering research activities, travel within Japan, and collaboration costs.

While travel expenses from India to Japan are not included, Indian institutions are encouraged to provide support. Beyond financial aid, participants gain access to advanced research infrastructure, networking opportunities, and potential pathways to internships or employment in Japan.

Strengthening India-Japan Collaboration

The LOTUS Programme is a strategic initiative designed to foster academic collaboration between India and Japan. By enabling mobility and joint research among young researchers, it seeks to accelerate research output and support the long-term career growth of participants. The addition of the ASPIRE track and increased intake in 2026 underscores the programme’s expanded scope and ambition.

Get the latest updates on school admissions, entrance processes, and education notifications across India. Notopedia provides complete details on online registration, eligibility criteria, admission forms, important dates, and selection processes for various schools and academic programs, helping students and parents stay informed at every step.

For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board

For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section

For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section

For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section

For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section

For Comprehensive Preparation of Competitive Exams - Visit Notopedia's College Entrance Exams Section