—Sakura Science Hands-on Training in Experiments and Computer-based DNA Analysis— 

Saga University will host seven undergraduate students and one accompanying faculty member from Sri Vishnu Educational Society (SVES), India, under JST’s Sakura Science Program. From September 7 to 13, 2026, participants will learn medicinal plant genomics through plant DNA experiments and computer-based analysis of DNA sequence data, including chloroplast genome analysis. 

● Purpose and Background 

India is rich in food and medicinal plant resources, and genomic information is important for their classification and utilization. Building on academic exchange between Saga University and SVES, this program provides students studying pharmacy and biotechnology with practical experience in modern genomics. 

● Program Details 

At Saga University, participants will extract plant DNA and assess its quality, and use existing DNA sequence data to assemble and compare chloroplast genomes and conduct phylogenetic analyses. On the final day, they will present their results and exchange views. 

● Expected Outcomes / Future Prospects 

It is expected to reinforce sustained educational and research exchange between Japan and India, including future graduate study and collaborative research. 

【Contact】 

Prof. Yukio Nagano, Faculty of Agriculture, Saga University 
Tel: +81-952-28-8753   E-mail: nagano (at) cc.saga-u.ac.jp