Applications are now open for the 7th TERRA+ (Transdisciplinarity for Early Career Researchers in Asia+) School, an intensive, short-term course focused on transdisciplinary research (TD). This year’s TERRA+ School is hosted by the Research Institute for Humanity and Nature (RIHN) and the Future Earth Japan Global Secretariat Hub. Participants will gain exposure to TD principles, tools, and methods, and have the opportunity to connect with a diverse network of researchers and practitioners.

The program will take place in person at RIHN in Kyoto, Japan, from December 4–9, 2025. The course is free, with a limited number of travel grants available for participants from Asia. Slots are open to candidates from around the world who are able to fund their own travel and participation.

This year’s School will be held consecutively with RIHN’s International Symposium on Capacity Building for Green Transformation, which will be held at the same venue on December 10-11, 2025. This provides participants a unique opportunity to pitch ideas, expand their professional networks, and explore future collaboration opportunities.

The TERRA+ School offers:

• Intensive training in TD 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

Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• PhD student or postdoctoral researcher (within the last 10 years), or sustainability practitioner with 5–10 years of relevant experience
• Active or interested in bridging sustainability research and practice
• Proficient in English

Selection Process:
Participant selection will occur in two stages:

• Future Earth members are invited to nominate up to two candidates from within their networks. Please complete the nomination form by August 20, 2025.

• Applicants must complete the application form by 6:00 PM Japan time on August 24, 2025. Early submissions are strongly encouraged. Successful applicants will be notified by mid-September 2025.

To learn more, check out reports and blog posts from previous TERRA⁺ Schools, and read through the 2025 program brief.

Please reach out with any questions to futureearth@chikyu.ac.jp