#Flavor Innovation #Kikkoman #Tokyo University

Tokyo University of Foreign Studies and Kikkoman Join Forces for a Flavor Innovation Program

Flavor Innovation Program: A Joint Research Initiative

On February 9, 2026, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (TUFS), under the leadership of President Nobuaki Haruna, will partner with Kikkoman Corporation's Flavor Future Research Center, led by Director Maeko Hayase, to launch an innovative research program focusing on the diverse aspects of flavor and its relation to linguistic studies. This initiative will be facilitated in collaboration with TReND, the university's Interdisciplinary Research Collaborative Center, directed by Toshihide Nakayama, and COMMONZ Inc., headed by CEO Nobukazu Azuma.

Bridging Academia and Industry

This groundbreaking program combines the rich multi-lingual and cultural expertise of TUFS with Kikkoman's extensive knowledge about flavor. By approaching the multifaceted nature and structure of flavor through the lenses of human and social sciences, the collaboration seeks to create value that transcends traditional boundaries. Such partnerships between academia and industry are rare but pivotal in fostering new models of value creation that benefit both sectors.

Research Collaboration Overview

The program will invite doctoral students from TUFS to propose research topics that explore the relationship between taste and language, based on their own academic pursuits. From these submissions, four promising themes will be selected and funded by both TUFS and Kikkoman's Flavor Future Research Center. Scholars whose projects are accepted will receive supervision from TReND's Nakayama while also getting support from COMMONZ and TUFS Research Administrators (URA). Each researcher will ultimately present their findings at Kikkoman's Flavor Future Research Center. The best research will be recognized and awarded for its significant contribution to both academic and business realms.

A Multi-Layered Collaborative Framework

In addition to the primary research endeavors, several activities are in place to enhance collaboration between TUFS and Kikkoman. Plans include exchanges between the university president and Kikkoman executives, discussions featuring the center directors broadcasted via YouTube and podcasts, and tours such as visits to Kikkoman's Soy Sauce Museum, as well as study tours that involve local governments partnered with TUFS. This comprehensive cooperation aims to build an extensive support system beyond just the research projects.

Upcoming Schedule

- February 9, 2026: Signing ceremony at TUFS, Fuchu Campus
- Mid-February 2026: Internal recruitment for research topics begins
- May 2026: Commencement of collaborative research
- October 2026: Research presentations and awards ceremony

Details of the Signing Ceremony

When: February 9, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM (registration starts at 2:30 PM)
Where: TUFS Main Building, Large Conference Room, 2nd Floor
Attendance:

- President Nobuaki Haruna, TUFS
- Executive Officer Yoshihisa Kitakura, Kikkoman
- Toshihide Nakayama, Director, TReND
- Shintaro Furuya, Vice President, COMMONZ
- Others

Agenda:
1. Introduction of the agreement's significance
2. Signing of the agreement
3. Photo session
4. Q&A session (approximately 30 minutes)

How to Apply for Attendance

Those wishing to participate must apply via email as outlined below:

Recipient: TUFS Coordination and Public Relations Division
Email: [email protected]
Subject: [Your Company Name] 2/9 Agreement Signing Ceremony Application
Body: Please include your company name and the name of the attendee(s).
Deadline: February 6, 2026, at 2:00 PM

On the day of the event, please bring a business card for registration.