Request for Proposals: India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme

Organisation Name:

Department of Science and Technology (DST), operating under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India

Application Deadline:

3 September 2025

About Organisation

The Department of Science and Technology (DST), operating under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India, is dedicated to advancing scientific research, innovation, and development across diverse disciplines. By fostering collaborations, supporting projects, and driving innovation, DST plays a pivotal role in strengthening India’s scientific ecosystem. In partnership with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), it has created opportunities to bring together Indian and Japanese researchers under one platform for the exchange of knowledge and expertise. JSPS is Japan’s leading research funding agency, committed to advancing global science and supporting joint international collaborations. Together, DST and JSPS aim to encourage knowledge transfer, scientific discoveries, and the development of future-ready solutions. Their joint efforts under the India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme (IJCSP) reflect the vision of building long-term partnerships in cutting-edge science and technology. By funding exchanges, joint workshops, and collaborative research projects, both organizations are nurturing innovation-led development while promoting cultural and academic exchanges between the two countries. The programme strengthens bilateral relations through science diplomacy, ensuring both nations benefit from mutual expertise and shared scientific outcomes.

About the Grant

The India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme (IJCSP) is designed to foster bilateral collaboration between Indian and Japanese researchers in multiple scientific domains. This grant supports Joint Research Projects and Joint Workshops/Seminars across areas such as Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Life Science & Agriculture, Mathematics & Computational Science, Astronomy & Earth Science, and Materials & Engineering. The funding primarily covers expenses related to researcher exchange, including international airfare, visa fees, airport taxes, overseas medical insurance, and transfers within India. For workshops or seminars hosted in India, additional costs like domestic travel for selected participants and organizing expenses may also be supported in accordance with DST guidelines. The project duration is up to two years, with researcher visits required to be completed within one year and ten months. The initiative emphasizes not only scientific advancement but also the strengthening of bilateral cooperation, with both Indian and Japanese Principal Investigators (PIs) jointly leading and managing the projects. Proposals are assessed at a national level based on scientific merit, methodological soundness, expertise of applicants, and the value of exchange in terms of enhancing cooperation.

Who can Apply?

Applications must include one Principal Investigator (PI) from India and one from Japan, both responsible for managing and coordinating the project. Indian PIs must be full-time scientists or faculty members employed at recognized universities, academic institutes, national research laboratories, or non-profit institutions engaged in research and development. They should not be retiring or leaving their institution during the project’s duration. Japanese PIs must be full-time researchers employed at universities or research institutions recognized by JSPS. Each PI may only submit one proposal, and proposals must be written in English, aligning with the Executive Programme’s validity period. Indian applicants already leading two or more DST-funded projects that extend beyond March 31, 2026, are not eligible. Eligible projects must demonstrate strong scientific relevance, methodological rigor, and clear bilateral benefits through researcher exchange. Supporting documents such as completed application forms, curricula vitae of both research teams, and a letter of intent exchanged between coordinators are required for submission. This ensures that projects are built on mutual understanding and commitment from both sides.

How to Apply?

Applicants must submit completed application forms along with CVs of both Indian and Japanese research teams and a jointly signed letter of intent. Proposals must be in English.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme is 03 September 2025. Applicants should ensure timely submission to meet all requirements.

Last Date To Apply
All completed proposals, including necessary documents, must be submitted no later than 03 September 2025 for consideration.

Grant Amount
The grant covers international travel, visa fees, insurance, airport transfers, and local expenses for workshops in India, with project funding available for up to two years.