Exploring the Future of STEM Recruitment and Development in Japan's Workforce

On August 27, 2025, LabBase, a company dedicated to connecting STEM talent with industry and academia, hosted the roundtable discussion titled "Exploring the Role of STEM Professionals in Society." This event focused on the recruitment and cultivation of specialized STEM personnel, bringing together representatives from various sectors to share insights and challenge the existing barriers faced in the hiring process.

The discussions centered around crucial topics such as career paths for PhD graduates and the support necessary for balancing research with job-seeking activities. Academic representatives and industry leaders engaged in thoughtful conversations about the present challenges while highlighting successful initiatives from various companies and their expectations for educational institutions in facilitating student career development.

During the panel discussion, participants examined the alignment between the characteristics of ideal candidates sought by industries and the developmental focus of academic systems. The interactive Q&A session allowed for a lively exchange of ideas on the future of STEM talent and their vital role in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and addressing environmental challenges.

The Role of STEM Professionals

STEM professionals are increasingly recognized as pivotal agents of change in society. However, the current job market presents several significant challenges for these individuals. Early job-seeking activities can infringe upon dedicated research time, while standardized treatment practices serve as discouragements for those pursuing PhDs. Additionally, the transition of PhD graduates to private sector jobs has not sufficiently expanded, highlighting a critical issue that impacts Japan's research capabilities and industrial competitiveness.

Event Overview

- Date and Time: August 27, 2025 (Wednesday) from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Venue: AP Toranomon

Keynote Insights

Naokazu Yamanaka (Former President of the Institute of Electronics, Information and Communication Engineers)

Professor Yamanaka emphasized in his keynote address the pressing issues within Japan's recruitment practices. He identified the underutilization of PhD talent as a substantial barrier to sustaining innovation in various industries. Yamanaka underscored that research education is not merely about outcomes; it’s about fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the research process itself.

He also raised concerns regarding the early onset of job-seeking behaviors which detracts from scholarly time and resulted in inadequate benefits for all parties involved. An emphasis was placed on the need to evolve the traditional salary practices that treat undergraduate and graduate degree holders equally, advocating for a reward system reflective of individual performance and capabilities.

Furthermore, Yamanaka pointed out the low employment rates of international students as a clear indication of Japan's failure to leverage exceptional talent adequately. The importance of building an environment that facilitates broader opportunities for these individuals remains a significant challenge moving forward.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Akiko Amagai (Manager, Talent Acquisition Center, Fujitsu)

Amagai shared Fujitsu’s vision of transforming their recruitment framework to one that is fully aligned with their core purpose and growth strategy. She explained that their transition to a job-based management system emphasizes authentic job definitions and direct hiring strategies. The novel implementation of their