#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #J-PEAKS #Remote Operations

Okayama University Enhances Research Collaboration

On October 12, 2025, Okayama University hosted a significant event at Nagaoka University of Technology. The university, part of the J-PEAKS initiative—aimed at strengthening regional core research universities in Japan—successfully conducted a remote operations demonstration and an information exchange session.

The technology management department, led by Tamura Yoshihiko, chief of the division, guided a delegation including Horitaku Kuro, coordinator Kodama Kazumasa, and technician Iida Yuji. Participants included representatives from several universities involved in the J-PEAKS project, such as Chiba University, Osaka Metropolitan University, and Kyushu Institute of Technology. The essence of the visit was to explore advancements in remote operation equipment, a growing area in research and analysis.

During this visit, attendees experienced remote operations firsthand at the Analysis and Measurement Center. The center is equipped with intermediate PCs that can facilitate remote control of almost all shared instruments, including microscopes and X-ray diffraction (XRD) devices. Participants took part in hands-on remote operation with Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM) and Electron Probe Micro-Analyzer (EPMA) through VPN connections and Zoom demonstrations. This allowed attendees to deeply explore operational usability and address pertinent challenges associated with remote methodology.

The information exchange session revolved around the organizational structure and personnel development initiatives of each participating university. Each institution shared examples of how remote operation services are utilized for educational purposes, commissioned analysis, and workshops. Engaging discussions ensued regarding potential future collaborations between universities to enhance operational capacities and educational outreach.

The insights gained from this event are expected to bolster Okayama University’s research infrastructure and resource utilization. The Division of Technical and Comprehensive Management aims to enhance and promote collaboration among universities and research institutions actively. The target is to elevate the proficiency of technical staff and improve shared access to research equipment.

Vice President and Director Sato Norihito expressed profound gratitude to Nagaoka University for hosting the event and emphasized the vital role of J-PEAKS in shaping the landscape of research universities in Japan. He acknowledged the collective responsibility of faculty and all staff members to drive this initiative, noting recent discussions among university technical staff and workshops conducted at Okayama University aimed at fostering a more inclusive approach to university management.

The fruitful exchanges, reflections, and collaborative efforts among participants have set a promising horizon for inter-university cooperation in Japan's higher education landscape. As Okayama University continues its journey under the J-PEAKS initiative, it remains committed to nurturing innovation and a sustainable future.

Through initiatives such as these, Okayama University aims to reinforce its status as a leading research institution, co-creating solutions for regional and global challenges while contributing significantly to the advancement of sustainable development goals (SDGs). Stay tuned for more developments as they unfold within the J-PEAKS framework and beyond.