The Japanese-Norwegian Partnership in Space Simulations between the University of Oslo and Kobe University and Kyoto University provides unique study opportunities for students interested in space science and numerical modeling. It is open to all students in physics, mathematics and computational sciences. The collaboration is centered on numerical simulations of space related problems, such as interaction between sounding rockets and plasma, cometary environment, asteroids and lunar surfaces, or plasma turbulence. Participating students will learn how to use and create large scale numerical models, run them on supercomputers, and relate their results to ongoing space missions. Another part of the programme focuses on the use of computers in space science, including data analysis techniques.
The partnership includes:
- 4DSpace Japan-Norway Programme in Space Studies
- Intensive 4DSpace Numerical Workshops in Japan and Norway.
- Schools on Computers in Space Science.
- Student exchange program on master and PhD level.
- Conferences and workshops.
- Mobility of faculty staff.
4DSpace Japan-Norway Programme in Space Studies
If you study physics, mathematics or related disciplines, and you are either a bachelor student (2-3 year) or master student, you are invited to apply for the 4DSpace Japan-Norway Programme in Space Studies. As a student of the 4DSpace Japan-Norway Programme you will participate in the following workshops and schools:
- 1) School on Space Mission Data Analysis that will be held in Kyoto, 13-17 April 2026
- 2) Workshop on Numerical Studies of Spacecraft-Plasma Interactions in Kobe, Japan, mid week June 2026
- 3) Workshop on Space Simulations in Oslo mid week September 2026
The workshop is part following courses for bachelor and master studentes:
https://www.uio.no/studier/emner/matnat/fys/FYS3660/index-eng.html
https://www.uio.no/studier/emner/matnat/fys/FYS4660/index-eng.html
APPLICATION DEADLINE 15 December at 12:00 CET.
4DSpace School on Space Mission Data Analysis
The second 4DSpace School on Space Mission Data Analysis will be organised in Kyoto, between 13-17 March 2026. The school will cover such topics as data analysis techniques, basics of space plasma physics, space missions and space instrumentation, interpretation of data from space missions. A study project with the use of real data from space experiments is envisioned.
4DSpace Numerical Workshops
The workshops are joint intensive study programs where students will learn different aspects of numerical simulations with particle-in-cell codes, running experiments on supercomputers, and basics of space science. The Japanese-Norwegian student teams will work in groups on problems related to the ongoing research projects for sounding rocket experiments. The research-based projects are expected to result in scientific reports or publications.
In year 2026 two 4DSpace Numerical Workshops will be organized:
17th 4DSpace Numerical WorkshopLocation: Kobe, Japan.Date: mid week June 2026. |  |
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18th 4DSpace Numerical WorkshopLocation: Oslo, Norway.Date: September 2026. |  |
How to apply:
To apply for the 4DSpace Japan-Norway Programme in Space Studies which includes three workshops/schools send the application before the deadline by nettskjema to: https://nettskjema.no/a/563995
The applications (in English) should include: short CV and a motivation letter (max. one page), as well as the transcript of grades and overview of courses taken. Selection will be based on the application.
The language of instruction will be English. The organizers will provide transportation (starting from Oslo airport) and accommodation for the workshops for traveling students. You have to arrange the travel insurance by yourself.
APPLICATION DEADLINE 15 December, 12:00 CET.
Kobe-Oslo student exchange program
A short and medium term exchange program between Kobe University and University of Oslo is available for master and PhD students. Students from UiO working on numerical projects can spend between one and three months in Japan to work on their projects under joint supervision. The Kobe-Oslo scholarship will be provided for successful applicants.
How to apply:
Contact: kobe-oslo@fys.uio.no for possibilities and further information.
Students from Kobe University should apply through their home university.
Current funding of the programme is through the Norwegian Research Council INTPART programme (2023-2027).
Previous funding:
The Kobe-Oslo project was funded through the UTFORSK 2016 Partnership Programme administered by DIKU, the Norwegian Agency for International Cooperation and Quality Enhancement in Higher Education (formerly SIU: Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Education). The funding is provided by the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research.
The funding for Kobe-Oslo project is granted for years 2017-2020 through project UTF-2016-long-term/10054.
This long-term partnership builds upon previous activities funded by SIU together with the Research Council of Norway in years 2015-2016.