Okayama University Strengthens Human Resource Strategies with Mie University Collaboration

Conference on Human Resource Strategies at Okayama University

On July 2, 2025, Okayama University, led by President Yasuyuki Nasu, held a productive meeting with Mie University focusing on their research support personnel (URA) systems at the KIBINOVE, its co-creation innovation laboratory located on the Tsushima campus.

The event was attended by key representatives from Mie University, including Ayumu Ohata, Director of Research and Community Relations, Yasuto Fujii, Head of Research Promotion, and Michihiro Tomosugi, a URA. From Okayama University, Masanori Kawamoto, Senior Vice Director of the Research and Innovation Co-Creation Organization, along with other members, joined the discussion.

During the meeting, participants exchanged views on the URA system and discussed challenges related to securing talent and developing young staff. Mie University brought forth various inquiries about Okayama University’s URA system and its personnel strategies under the J-PEAKS initiative (Joint Program for Academic Advancement in Research and Education). The importance of proactive communication and raising awareness within the university regarding the recruitment of human resources and development of junior staff was emphasized.

Okayama University has implemented its URA program since September 2012, following the J-PEAKS initiative, which allows for a multiple-track personnel system and a research management talent certification system. This meeting offered an opportunity to reflect not only on the progress of the URA system but also on its significance and challenges, marking a constructive exchange of ideas that further deepened collaboration between the two institutions.

As part of its commitment to innovation and collaboration, Okayama University aims to enhance partnerships with various universities, extending beyond those within the J-PEAKS program. Its objective is not only to create innovations confined to its scope but also to contribute to the overall development of research capabilities across Japan, thereby influencing societal progress.

Looking ahead, Okayama University strives to cultivate a research environment that co-creates solutions for regional and global challenges while pursuing transformation within society. Their continuous endeavors in nurturing research talent align with their vision to emerge as a leading research university, particularly marked by ongoing enhancements and evolution in their approach to human resource development.

The KIBINOVE facility, established under the Ministry of Education’s initiative for critical core research universities, is designed to enhance collaboration among academia, industry, and government. Its mission focuses on resolving societal issues based on research achievements and fostering new industries, including startups.

This meeting not only facilitated the sharing of experiences and challenges but also reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening collaborative networks among educational and research institutions within Japan. The collaborative spirit is at the core of the J-PEAKS initiative, aiming at the overall revitalization of research universities in the country.

In conclusion, Okayama University welcomes expectations for its relentless pursuit of innovation and research excellence, as it continues its journey towards academic distinction and societal betterment.