IISER Pune and Lodha Foundation launch fully funded science mentorship program for school studentsThe application process for the Lodha Genius Science Circle with IISER Pune has commenced for students studying in Grades 6 to 9 as of July 2026. The program is being conducted by the Lodha Foundation in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune.The fully funded initiative is designed to identify and mentor students with an interest in science through practical learning experiences, collaborative projects, faculty mentorship, and interdisciplinary exposure. The program focuses on scientific thinking, experimentation, life skills, and research-based learning beyond the classroom environment.Application process and registration detailsStudents seeking admission to the program are required to apply through the official application portal. Applicants must first sign up by creating an account through the registration link provided on the Lodha Genius Program website.After completing the sign-up process, candidates need to log in using their credentials and fill in the required personal information, including address, date of birth, and other details. Under the “Preferred Programme” section, applicants must select “Lodha Genius Science Circle with IISER Pune”, listed as the third option in the dropdown menu.Candidates are also required to select their appropriate grade level before reviewing all entered details and submitting the form through the “Save and Next” option.For application-related assistance or technical difficulties, applicants may contact the helpline numbers: +91 7678013523 and +91 8433529562.Program to focus on practical science learningAccording to the program details, selected students will participate in weekend science circles conducted throughout the academic year at IISER Pune. The sessions will include hands-on experiments, seminars, scientific discussions, and small-group activities aimed at strengthening scientific understanding and analytical thinking.Students will also gain exposure to scientific tools, laboratory methods, and practical experimentation under the guidance of the Lodha Genius team, IISER Pune faculty members, and researchers. The program aims to familiarize participants with observation-based inquiry and problem-solving approaches.Workshops to cover science, society and technologyThe curriculum will include interactive workshops focusing on topics such as climate change, biodiversity, mental health, and the relationship between science and society. These sessions are intended to encourage discussion, collaboration, and critical examination of contemporary issues.Participants will also receive training in computational modelling, coding, logic, and pattern recognition through applied science and technology modules. Experiment kits and project-based activities will form part of the practical learning process.Focus on teamwork, leadership and research exposureThe program will include group-based learning activities such as science games, collaborative challenges, storytelling exercises, and design tasks aimed at developing teamwork and leadership skills.Life skills workshops will additionally cover areas including ethical reasoning, emotional intelligence, perseverance, empathy, and time management.As part of the second-year progression plan, a selected group of students will move to project-driven learning under IISER Pune faculty mentorship. Their research work will progress from conceptualisation to execution and will later be presented at a science symposium.Students selected for the advanced stage will also undergo training in science communication, including writing, public speaking, and audience engagement.
