The LOTUS Programme (India-Japan Circulation of Talented Youths in Science Programme) is an initiative of the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) under the Sakura Science Programme. It supports talented graduate students and postdoctoral researchers from India to participate in research exchanges in Japan and engage in joint research with Japanese universities and research institutions.
The programme aims to strengthen India–Japan research collaboration through joint research, academic networking and international research experience. Research activities are jointly supervised by faculty members from India and Japan.
Who Can Apply
The programme is open to graduate students (Master’s or Doctoral) and postdoctoral researchers at Indian universities, subject to the programme-specific eligibility requirements.
Programme Types
- LOTUS Basic: Supports short-term research stays in Japan for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.
- LOTUS-ASPIRE: Supports longer-term research stays and deeper collaborative research activities in Japan.
Key Opportunities
- Research exchange in Japan
- Participation in India–Japan joint research projects
- Collaboration with Japanese universities and research institutions
- Joint supervision by Indian and Japanese faculty members
- International research exposure and academic networking
- Career development opportunities for those interested in pursuing research careers in Japan
IIT Kanpur and LOTUS
IIT Kanpur students have been selected under the LOTUS Programme, undertaking collaborative research projects with leading Japanese institutions including RIKEN, Kyoto University, Osaka University, Okayama University, Institute of Science Tokyo and other premier research institutions.
More Information
For programme details, eligibility, application procedures, current calls and other guidelines, please visit the official LOTUS Programme website:
LOTUS Programme – Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST):
https://www.jst.go.jp/program/india/en/