Key facts
- Japan aims to send 30,000 young researchers overseas for medium- to long-term studies over the next five years.
- The initiative focuses on fields like artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
- The plan is to be included in the "Integrated Innovation Strategy 2026."
- Financial support systems for overseas research stays are being considered for expansion.
- Funding for scientific research and national universities is also slated for increases.
- Japan's Quantum Technology Innovation Council has proposed measures to build a quantum ecosystem.
The Japanese government is planning a significant initiative to send 30,000 young researchers overseas for medium- to long-term studies over the next five years, from fiscal year 2026 to 2030. This ambitious plan aims to bolster Japan's capabilities in critical fields such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing, aligning with the administration's vision of becoming a "New Technology-Based Nation."
This initiative is set to be formally included in the "Integrated Innovation Strategy 2026." To facilitate these overseas research endeavors, the government is considering expanding financial support systems, including living and research expense allowances, and significantly increasing funding for the Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (Kakenhi) and operating expense grants for national universities. The current allowance under the JSPS "Overseas Research Fellow" program ranges from 5.2 to 8 million yen annually, though this may not meet minimum salary guidelines in some countries like the United States.
Interactions with international researchers are deemed crucial for producing excellent research results. Such collaborations can increase the "visibility" and "reliability" of research, facilitate the incorporation of new technologies and theories, and enable access to cross-border research resources like giant telescopes and particle accelerators. Concerns exist that a decline in exchanges with overseas researchers could lead to a weakening of Japan's scientific and technological capabilities.
In parallel, Japan is strengthening its efforts in quantum technology. The government's Quantum Technology Innovation Council has compiled promotional measures to build a quantum ecosystem and accelerate the social implementation of quantum technology. This comes as countries worldwide, including the U.S., U.K., and Germany, are increasing their investments and strategic plans in quantum research and development, highlighting a global race in this advanced field. Japan has invested approximately 330 billion yen in quantum technology over the past five years and has formulated three key strategies related to its research, social transformation, and industrial development.