Japan invites 1,000 Indian researchers under LOTUS Programme 2026

Japan has opened applications for the LOTUS Programme FY2026, offering nearly 1,000 Indian Master’s, PhD students, and postdoctoral researchers an opportunity to participate in funded research stays across leading Japanese universities and institutions.The initiative, part of the India-Japan Circulation of Talented Youths in Science Programme, is aimed at deepening bilateral scientific collaboration while equipping young Indian researchers with international exposure and career-building opportunities.

Application process and eligibility

The programme is open to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers under the age of 40 who are currently affiliated with Indian universities or research institutions. However, candidates cannot apply independently. Instead, applications must be submitted by a Principal Investigator based in a Japanese university or research institute, who will host the selected participant.Direct link to apply for Japan’s LOTUS programme.The application window will remain open until June 9, 2026 (12:00 JST). The review and selection process is expected to take place between June and August, with final results likely to be announced in late August. Selected candidates will begin their research stays from October 2026.

Focus areas and academic scope

The programme prioritises emerging and high-impact research fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, energy, materials science, quantum technology, semiconductors, and telecommunications. At the same time, applicants working in related interdisciplinary domains may also be considered, provided their research aligns with these core areas.

Two programme tracks with expanded scope

For FY2026, the programme will operate through two tracks: LOTUS Basic and the newly introduced LOTUS-ASPIRE. The Basic track supports short-term research stays of up to 12 months and focuses on building foundational collaboration through joint supervision.In contrast, the LOTUS-ASPIRE track allows longer engagement of up to 36 months and is designed to produce tangible research outcomes. It also includes expanded funding support and structured evaluation of joint research results, reflecting a shift toward deeper and more outcome-driven collaboration.

Funding support and opportunities

Selected participants will receive a monthly stipend of approximately ₹1.4 lakh to cover living expenses, including accommodation. Depending on the track, additional funding is provided for research activities, travel within Japan, and collaboration expenses.While the programme covers most in-country costs, travel expenses from India to Japan are not included, and institutions in India are encouraged to support these costs.Beyond financial assistance, the programme also offers exposure to advanced research infrastructure, opportunities for academic networking, and potential pathways to internships or employment in Japan.

Boost to India-Japan scientific collaboration

The LOTUS Programme is positioned as a strategic initiative to strengthen academic ties between India and Japan. By facilitating mobility and collaboration among young researchers, it aims to accelerate joint research output while supporting the long-term career growth of participants.With the addition of the ASPIRE track and a larger intake target, the 2026 edition signals a significant expansion in the scale and ambition of the programme.