Terra+ School is an intensive capacity building program that offers participants the opportunity to explore transdisciplinary principles, tools, and real-world applications. TERRA+ School encourages next-generation researchers to deepen their understanding of human-nature interactions and pressing sustainability challenges in Asia. The course features lectures, workshops, and interactive sessions, and is carefully designed to address three dimensions of transdisciplinary research: the foundational knowledge (“what to know”), the practical methodologies (“how to do”), and the reflective mindset (“how to be”).

This year’s TERRA+ School will be held in Kyoto from October 15–22, 2026. The program includes participation in a workshop by KLASICA (Knowledge, Learning, and Societal Change international research alliance) — an international research group driving social change to address pressing global environmental challenges — centered on the theme of “Dialogue with Forests and Nature.” Participants who wish to may also join discussions on topics such as “Culture × Environment” at the Kyoto Culture Forum, held at Ninnaji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The application period runs from May 15 to June 21 (Japan Standard Time). Please see below for the application process and form.

Key Information

• Venue: Research Institute for Humanity and Nature (RIHN), 457-4 Motoyama, Kamigamo, Kita-ku, Kyoto
• Dates: October 15–22, 2026
• Applications open: Tuesday, May 15; deadline 23:59 JST, Friday, June 21 (Early applications are strongly encouraged.)
• Cost: The course is free of charge. A very limited number of travel grants are available for participants from Asia through a selection process. Candidates from around the world who are able to cover their own travel and participation costs are welcome to apply.
• Contact: futureearth@chikyu.ac.jp

The TERRA+ School offers

• Intensive training in TD and mission-oriented research approaches and methodologies
• Practical experience with TD tools and concepts
• Opportunities to build connections across regions, disciplines, and sectors
• Access to potential fellowships and collaborative projects
• Membership in a growing global network supported by Future Earth and RIHN

Who can apply?

• TERRA+ School 2026 welcomes applications from PhD students, postdoctoral researchers (up to 10 years after completing their PhD), and sustainability practitioners with 5–10 years of relevant experience.
• Motivated early-career researchers and practitioners from around the world who bring diverse perspectives across disciplines, sectors, and geographies — and who are passionate about exploring how research and practice can drive meaningful change in society.
• Applicants should have an active interest in connecting sustainability research with real-world challenges.
• A working proficiency in English is required, as all sessions will be conducted in English.
• Nominations are needed from Future Earth network, RIHN and Asia Science Mission.

How to Apply

• Future Earth members may nominate up to two candidates from within their networks.
• Applicants must submit the completed application form no later than 23:59  (Japan time) on 21 June, 2026, along with a letter of recommendation from a member of Future Earth network, RIHN, and Asia Science Mission.
• Applicants will be notified of selection results by late July 2026.

For more information, please refer to reports and blog posts from previous TERRA+ Schools, and read through the 2026 Program Briefer.

Organized by: Research Institute for Humanity and Nature (RIHN) and the Future Earth Japan Global Secretariat Hub

In cooperation with: Asia Science Mission, Uehiro Research Center for Japan Environmental Studies, KLASICA, RIHN Green Knowledge Center, and others