Japan plans to require universities to disclose information such as the employment history of researchers, as a condition that needs to be met before providing financial assistance to them. This is part of efforts to encourage increased transparency at research institutions and to have systems in place to ensure that researchers are not under undue influence from other countries (through financial associations), particularly when conducting research in areas of economic security, such as in cutting-edge technologies.
In 2021, the government created guidelines for the disclosure of information by researchers, including their connections with external parties, and for research institutions to strengthen their risk management systems. But until now, it has relied mostly on voluntary disclosure by researchers. The plan is for these new guidelines to be made mandatory for researchers who have received financial support from the government.
The government may also require full disclosure from researchers when allocating Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (Kakenhi) and certifying universities as "International Excellence Research Universities," which would grant them access to the government's 10 trillion yen university fund.
It aims to improve Japan's research capabilities by creating an environment where it is easy to invite overseas researchers with confidence. It aligns with Minister of Economic Security Sanae Takaichi's emphasis on the importance of collaborating with foreign researchers.
https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOUA05DSV0V00C24A6000000/
What this means for the UK
This drive by the Japanese government to increase transparency in research is a positive measure, and if implemented, will give international research collaborators a measure of confidence in the security of their joint research with Japan. This new requirement will help create an environment that is supportive of international research collaboration and could accelerate Japan-UK research collaborations. The fact that the systems employed by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) are being referenced and studied by the Japan Ministry of Education (MEXT) and Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), demonstrates the high regard that Japan has for the UK’s research security, research environment and supporting systems. This signals Japan’s openness towards the UK as an ally and friend, which UK HEIs should capitalise upon when seeking out international research collaboration partners.
