DST Invites Applications for India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme 2026, Researchers Can Apply Till September 3

In a major opportunity for researchers, scientists and academic institutions, the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has invited applications for the India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme (IJCSP) 2026. The initiative, being conducted in partnership with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), aims to strengthen scientific collaboration, research exchange and innovation between India and Japan.

The programme is designed to support joint research projects, workshops and scientific seminars that promote bilateral cooperation in emerging areas of science and technology. Interested applicants can submit their proposals until September 3, 2026.

Research Opportunities Across Multiple Disciplines

The IJCSP 2026 is open to researchers working in six major scientific fields: Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Life Science and Agriculture, Mathematics and Computational Science, Astronomy and Earth Science, and Materials and Engineering.

Under the programme, each proposal must be jointly submitted by one Indian Principal Investigator (PI) and one Japanese PI. The two researchers will be responsible for coordinating the scientific, technical and administrative aspects of the project.

Indian applicants must be employed in a regular capacity at recognised universities, academic institutions, research laboratories or non-profit research organisations. Japanese applicants must be full-time researchers affiliated with institutions recognised by JSPS.

International Collaboration and Research Mobility

Selected projects can run for up to two years, offering researchers an opportunity to collaborate internationally, exchange knowledge and build long-term academic partnerships.

According to DST, international travel expenses will be borne by the sending country, while local hospitality and domestic travel support will be provided by the host country. Indian researchers will receive support for airfare, visa fees, airport taxes and overseas medical insurance. Japanese researchers visiting India will be provided accommodation, daily allowances and domestic travel assistance.

In addition, approved projects will receive a contingency grant of ₹25,000 per year. However, funding will not cover equipment purchases, manpower recruitment or laboratory consumables.

Selection Process and Timeline

Applications must be submitted through the DST e-application portal by 5 PM on September 3, 2026, while identical proposals must also be filed simultaneously with JSPS by the Japanese partner.

Projects will be evaluated based on scientific merit, research methodology, innovation potential, societal impact, academic excellence and contribution to India-Japan scientific cooperation. Results are expected to be announced in April-May 2027, with selected projects likely to begin in June 2027.

The programme offers a valuable platform for higher education institutions, researchers and young scientists seeking global research exposure and international academic collaboration.