Applications Open for TERRA+ School 2026 on Transdisciplinary Sustainability Research
The Research Institute for Humanity and Nature (RIHN) and the Future Earth Japan Global Secretariat Hub have announced the call for participants for the 2026 TERRA+ School (Transdisciplinarity for Early careeR Researchers in Asia+ School), a leading international training program focused on transdisciplinary sustainability research.
The TERRA+ School is a short-term intensive course designed to introduce early career researchers and practitioners to the principles, methodologies, tools, and practice of transdisciplinary research. The program provides participants with opportunities to engage directly with sustainability challenges through collaborative learning, dialogue, field-based experience, and interaction with international experts.
The 2026 TERRA+ School will be held in Kyoto, Japan, from 15–22 October 2026. The week-long program includes lectures, collaborative workshops, field visits, and participation in a workshop organized by KLASICA (Knowledge, Learning, and Societal Change International Research Alliance), focusing on the theme “Dialogue with Forests and Nature.”
Participants will also have the opportunity to join the Kyoto Culture Forum on 22–23 October 2026 at Ninnaji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where they can present ideas and engage with a diverse international community of scholars, practitioners, artists, and sustainability leaders.
The program aims to create a collaborative space for ideation, project development, and long-term networking. Alumni of previous TERRA+ School programs have gone on to participate in fellowships, collaborative research projects, and transdisciplinary sustainability initiatives across the Future Earth network.
The initiative is particularly relevant for emerging researchers and practitioners interested in sustainability science, socio-ecological systems, governance, resilience, and the interface between science and practice.
Eligible applicants include:
- PhD students
- Postdoctoral researchers within the last 10 years
- Practitioners with 5–10 years of experience in sustainability-related work
- Individuals engaged in sustainability research-practice interfaces
- Applicants able to participate in English
Applications require a recommendation letter from a member of the Future Earth network, RIHN, or the Asia Science Mission.
The deadline for applications is 21 June 2026 (23:59 JST).
The Sustainable Water Future Programme encourages early career researchers and practitioners working on water, sustainability, socio-ecological systems, and transdisciplinary research to consider applying for this unique learning opportunity.
For more information and application details:
For inquiries:
futureearth@chikyu.ac.jp