Under the theme “Collaborative Management,” the 2026 COI-NEXT Annual Symposium will focus on research management and long-term sustainability. Discussions will explore epistemic diversity, particularly its potential to open new research possibilities and address overlooked societal needs. This perspective highlights the role of institutions in helping achieve these benefits while addressing the practical demands of supporting diversity.

Other key topics include OIST’s Open Center and marine case studies from Stream 3: Healthy Environment. The symposium will also address organizational sustainability through the exchange of management experiences among guests from other COI-NEXT universities in Japan. The symposium will offer an opportunity to reflect on how institutional choices shape the future of research and innovation.