Science Challenge 2026
Theme
Ideas That matter: Upholding your wildest science dream in the era of AI
Technology evolves rapidly but fundamental scientific insights endure. How can your dream research ideas cross boundaries and leave a lasting mark in the age of AI, where services like ChatGPT could potentially perform most of scientific work for people. How can your big idea stand out and remain original and impactful?
Date and Venue
Date: March 8 – 14, 2026 (including travel days)
Venue: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (Main Campus)
Eligibility Requirements
- Undergraduate and master’s students in STEM disciplines currently enrolled in universities in Japan.
- Must be able to participate in the workshop for all days.
Participation Fee
10,000 JPY
Participation fee will be collected from selected participants to cover a portion of related expenses throughout the workshop. Airfare, accommodation, and meals during the workshop will be provided by OIST.
Application Documents
Presentation slide
Please submit a presentation slide deck (PDF format, in English) introducing yourself and highlighting your research passion in relation to the theme. The slide deck should be no more than 6 slides.
Show us how you would make your research stand out by combining different research disciplines, if you were given the opportunity to work on an interdisciplinary project!
sample_presentation slide_science challenge
30-second video
Please submit a 30-second video in English where you introduce yourself and share your reasons for wanting to join the OIST Science Challenge.
Selection
Application deadline: January 4, 2026 (23:59 JST)
Result announcement: late January 2026
From submitted applications, about 25 applicants will be selected and invited to the workshop.
Contact
OIST Admissions and Recruitment Section
E-mail: gradschool.event@oist.jp
Please note that the office will be closed on Japanese national holidays and from December 27, 2025 to January 4, 2026. We will respond to inquiries once we return to the office.