Science Funding Shake-up in Japan

In these times of financial instability and prudence, researchers across the globe seem to be finding things tough. Here in Japan fiscal worries are abundant, particularly following the disastrous earthquake and tsunami of 2011. Government debt is spiralling and tax rises seem imminent, but what consequence will this all have on research funding?
It seems the axe may be about to fall; in what amounts to a cost-cutting exercise, government advisors have recommended the amalgamation of the 5 main science-funding bodies. These include the prestigious RIKEN organisation, which has a diverse portfolio of research institutes, including several covering the life-sciences, such the Center for Developmental Biology (CDB) in Kobe. RIKEN president Ryoji Noyori has informed research staff that the organisation would continue in its attempts to develop into a world-class research institution, but hinted at a new focus on “needs-based” science. It seems likely that basic science research may take a hit, although the plans won’t come into effect until 2014.
In a related development, public sector workers across Japan may soon see pay cuts of up to 7.8% for the next 2 years; money directly earmarked for tsunami-related reconstruction projects. These cuts could also affect researchers working in publicly funded institutions.

It all sounds a bit bleak, but there are still excellent opportunities for researchers to work in Japan:

RIKEN CDB is on the lookout for aspiring PIs.

For Postdocs interested in joining a lab at a RIKEN institute, the Foreign Postdoctoral Fellowship is a great source of funding.

JSPS also offers attractive (tax free) fellowships for long and short-term stays.

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