Kaoru Kuwata
Vice President for Research Development
Senior Aide to the President
Associate Director, Office of Research and Innovation (URA Director)
Before joining Tokyo Tech, worked at an electronics company and industry think tank; has experience in research and development of embedded operating systems, system LSI development, engineering strategy, and marketing intelligence for management strategy. "I wish to use my experience to support social application of research outcomes and contribute to connecting Tokyo Tech research with the future of our society."
Hajime Nitta
University Research Administrator (Head URA)
Head, Research Development Section
Office of Research and Innovation
From Nagano prefecture; received a master's degree from Tokyo Institute of Technology; has 25 years of experience in product development for an electronics company, focusing mainly on consumer video equipment; specializes in electronic circuit engineering and systems design; subsequently worked as a coordinator for academia-industry collaboration at Keio University; assumed current post in February 2017. "Perhaps influenced by the company I worked at, I like finding ideas that others would not consider and acting on them. I always try to think about what I can do as a URA to support the university in doing the research it needs to do."
Motoko Inoue
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Development Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Obtained PhD in Art from University of Tsukuba, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences; prior to current position, worked at Tokyo National Museum, Curatorial Research Department, focusing on development of a domestic institution network for protecting cultural assets from natural disasters; conducted research and reporting on management circumstances for assets affected by natural disasters; as a Tokyo Tech URA, responsible for promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and supporting government-sponsored projects. "I look forward to having many opportunities to work with researchers across fields, career stages, and funding scopes to support development of their ideas."
Chiyoko Kameue
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Development Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Holds a doctorate in agriculture from Kyoto Prefectural University, Graduate School of Agriculture; while employed with a general trading company, engaged in business creation and R&D related to functional feed materials; concurrently obtained a master of technology management degree from the Graduate School of Innovation Management at Tokyo Tech; prior to her current position, worked at a national university for five and a half years as a URA with responsibilities in industry liaison and external funds acquisition. "Utilizing my academic and industry experience, I hope to contribute to value creation and sharing Tokyo Tech's research advances with society."
Emiko Kawaguchi
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Development Section
Office of Research and Innovation
URA for global research communications; born in 1970; from Yokohama; received bachelor's degree in business administration from Aoyama Gakuin University; worked for an electronics manufacturer for 20 years, engaging portable audio player design and consumer-focused promotion of new products. "I spend each day focused on increasing awareness and understanding of the top-level research being conducted at Tokyo Tech."
Tomoko Konishi
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Development Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Completed graduate study at Osaka University Graduate School of Science; specializing in polymer chemistry, worked in corporate research and development. "Every day at Tokyo Tech is inspiring, as I am able to learn about our researchers and the work they are doing in various fields. I am honored to assist researchers in contributing to society through their discoveries. I will continue to work as a URA you can rely on."
Charles DaSalla
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Development Section, Basic Research and Infrastructure Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Received a BS in biomedical engineering from Columbia University and PhD in computational intelligence and systems science from Tokyo Tech; as a researcher, specialized in biosignal-based technologies, with a focus on brain-machine interfaces; has over 10 years of experience in scientific manuscript editing and 5 years in university international affairs. "Using my experience as a researcher and editor, I organize activities in scientific publication, external funding acquisition for international researchers, and other areas to promote globalization at Tokyo Tech."
Kazuhide Hasegawa
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Development Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Obtained doctoral degree from The University of Tokyo, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences; specializes in molecular biology; while working for a pharmaceutical company, engaged in drug discovery research, corporate planning, corporate and technical communications, and other areas; joined Tokyo Tech in November 2018 as a URA for international research communications. "I work to share the fascinating achievements of our researchers with the rest of the world. In doing so, I hope to increase awareness of Tokyo Tech research and strengthen our engagement with society."
Haruo Naruke
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Development Section, Basic Research and Infrastructure Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Completed undergraduate study at Chiba University Faculty of Science and graduate study at Tokyo Tech; served on the faculties of Chiba University and Tokyo Tech Chemical Resources Laboratory (now Laboratory for Chemistry and Life Science), specializing in inorganic coordination chemistry, solid-state chemistry, and oxide clusters; joined NEDO Technology Strategy Center in 2015, engaging in formulation of Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry projects; rejoined Tokyo Tech in 2019. "Having the honor of returning to my alma mater, I will do my utmost as a URA to support Tokyo Tech's faculty and researchers."
Manami Matsubayashi
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Development Section, Basic Research and Infrastructure Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Specializing in chemistry, worked as an engineer in national government focusing on systems design; also worked as an industry liaison coordinator at Tokyo Tech; currently as a URA, is responsible for institutional analysis. "My main activities include collecting and analyzing publication and research funding data, as well as other information for the purpose of enhancing research capabilities. I work to understand the current state of our institution and create proposals for the next stage in its activities."
Yutaka Hara
University Research Administrator (Head URA)
Head, Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
After completing a postdoctoral position in materials at university, worked at a publishing company developing new business ventures; also engaged in technology transfer projects between academia and industry for 10 years before joining in management of a venture company in materials. "My motivation when I first got involved in technology transfer was to help the world utilize research findings and knowledge from universities in a positive way. I maintain that desire as I contribute to creating new value through industry liaison."
Hiroo Ueda
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Promotes and coordinates international joint research between Tokyo Tech and corporate, academic, and research institutions abroad; previously worked in the automotive industry, conducting research in manufacturing and processing; also engaged in research planning and alliance formation for environmental, safety, and mobility fields; experienced in globalization and lived in Belgium for 4 years and Russia for 3 years. "I will contribute to elevating Tokyo Tech's global recognition and creating more opportunities for international research collaboration."
Hiroshi Ueno
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Completed master's study at Kyoto University; worked at a petrochemical plant engineering company as a civil engineer, supervising design and construction; later joined a think tank/consulting firm and engaged in business strategy and investment valuation projects; also held responsibilities in coordinating collaborations between Japanese companies and universities in Asia. "Industry liaison is development which spans the academic and corporate worlds. With an awareness of market-side strategy and investment trends, I hope to promote Tokyo Tech-industry collaborations."
Masuo Suyama
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Received a master's degree in applied physics from the Graduate School of Engineering at the University of Tokyo; spent 35 years at an electricity company engaging in research, development, application, and business development primarily for optical communication systems. "I wish to make full use of my experience and knowledge in supporting the implementation of Tokyo Tech's research outcomes in society. As a URA, I work to promote academia-industry collaboration and contribute to development of both the university and industry."
Hitoshi Taniguchi
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Conducted research on solar batteries while at university; after graduation, joined a corporate semiconductor division, engaging in development, production, and commercialization of CMOS LSI devices. "As an industry liaison coordinator at the Office of Research and Innovation, I am responsible for academia-industry collaborations and intellectual property utilization in the field of electrical and electronic engineering. I wish to contribute, in however small a way, to enhancing the value of Tokyo Tech."
Fumishige Nishikawa
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Holds responsibilities in chemistry and materials fields, including inorganic materials, metals, and catalysts; worked for 32 years at a materials manufacturer conducting research and development in new business fields as well as serving as a sales engineer; specializes in inorganic chemistry and electrochemistry. "I use my industry experience and network to inform companies of our researchers' patented technologies and unique research findings. I also work to keep our researchers informed on the technology needs and trends of industry."
Takanori Hioki
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Responsible for industry liaison coordination, specializing in life sciences intellectual property; after completing graduate study at the Tohoku University Graduate School of Science, worked for several years at Fujifilm's research division and head office, engaging in chemistry, healthcare, and safety R&D, as well as in commercialization and management; later worked at Kyoto University on compliance enhancements in life sciences research. "Using the experience I have gained working in industry and academia, I hope to support technology innovation through industry collaboration."
Takashi Mama
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Received a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Tokyo Tech; joined Ricoh Co., Ltd. in 1982 and worked with the company for 37 years, focusing on development of copier and printer products; joined Tokyo Tech as a URA in 2019. "Using my experience in product development, I look forward to tying Tokyo Tech's research achievements with industry. For the betterment of society, I will face any and all challenges with determination."
Tatsuya Mizukoshi
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
After graduating from Tokyo Tech's School of Science with a degree in chemistry, joined Showa Denko Group; worked as a visiting researcher at Osaka University on proteins, project coordinator at NEDO, planner at Showa Denko, and president at Showa Denko Europe; also gained experience with the Japan Chemical Industry Association and JST before rejoining Tokyo Tech in April 2018. "Although I have been apart from the technology sector for some time, I am pleased to be able to work at my alma mater. Using my industry and international experience, I will do my utmost to promote excellence at Tokyo Tech."
Katsuaki Yamagishi
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Specializes in thermal engineering, particularly refrigeration and air conditioning; also versed in general mechanical engineering, including robotics, engineering materials, and machining. "With 36 years in industry, I have experience in all aspects of the production stream, from research and development to design and quality control, as well as the front lines of business as a sales engineer and service engineer. As a URA, I contribute to the development of the university and society by supporting research at Tokyo Tech, collaborative research between Tokyo Tech and industry, and development of technology and other achievements by our industry partners."
Yasuhiko Watanabe
University Research Administrator (URA)
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Obtained a doctor of engineering degree from the Graduate School of Science and Technology at Nihon University; specializes in environmental chemistry; worked for 24 years for a water treatment manufacturer engaging in research and development of water treatment chemicals and equipment; achievements include development of the world's first intramolecular amphoteric polymer coagulant and granular thickening system; for the 10 years that followed, was involved in intellectual property strategy, development strategy, and R&D management in the intellectual property section and development planning department. "I will do my utmost to help create new value from your research and contribute to Tokyo Tech and society by maximizing my expertise as a URA."
Hiroshi Asazawa
Coordinator
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Industry liaison coordinator in the fields of information and communications technology and electrical and electronic engineering; while working in manufacturing, engaged in development of cellular phones, communication systems, and LSI circuits for communication applications; as a student, conducted research on communication systems based on models from information theory and probability distribution. "Studying the relevant technology, I provide support with patent applications and academia-industry collaboration to bring together the merits from both Tokyo Tech's laboratories and industry."
Tatsuro Usuki
Coordinator
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Obtained a doctor of engineering degree from the Graduate School of Engineering Science at Osaka University; currently responsible for chemistry and materials fields; previously worked in automotive research and in electronic device manufacturing; research focused mainly on using ferroelectric, piezoelectric, oxide superconductor, organic electro-luminescent, and other functional materials for thin film and device design, as well for integrated sensors. "I have had the opportunity to engage in many research and development projects made possible by academia-industry collaboration. Using my experience in industry and industry liaison at Tokyo Tech, I aim to promote innovation."
Shumpei Kohri
Coordinator
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Received a master's degree from the Department of Electronic Systems, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Engineering at Tokyo Tech; specializes in semiconductor devices; after involvement in semiconductor development and business operations at a home appliance manufacturer, worked for a consortium of semiconductor companies on collaborative research projects with academia; currently responsible for electrical and electronic engineering areas as a coordinator. "I want to use of my industry experience and academic standpoint to connect the strengths of Tokyo Tech with industry and put their research outcomes to use in society. I look forward to working with you."
Shuya Tanimura
Coordinator
Industry Liaison Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Received a master's degree from the Graduate School of Agriculture at Nagoya University and doctorate in biological sciences from the University of Tsukuba; licensed professional engineer in biotechnology and bioengineering; specializing in biology and biochemical engineering, worked in the food industry for 30 years, engaging in fermentation technology development and food production, both in the laboratory and factory; studied abroad at the Monell Chemical Senses Center in the USA. "As one of the only two Tokyo Tech coordinators with a background in life sciences, I work to showcase the activities of our researchers in biological sciences and promote development of their intellectual property."
Yuko Hayashi
Specially Appointed Professor
Head, Intellectual Property Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Received bachelor's and doctor of science degrees from Tokyo Tech's School of Science and Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Engineering, respectively; specializes in high polymers, liquid crystals, and general analysis, covering a broad area within chemistry and materials, as well some areas of biology and energy; worked at Asahi Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. and as an assistant professor at Tokyo Tech; assumed current post in 2003; awarded the Innovation Coordinator Special Prize by JST in 2013. "I am very familiar with the specializations of the faculty at Tokyo Tech. I am involved in forming connections between industry and faculty, as well as in intellectual property."
Kazuto Kobayashi
University Research Administrator (URA)
Intellectual Property Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Graduated from Waseda University, Faculty of Science and Engineering; licensed patent attorney; 32 years of experience working for an electronics manufacturer; oversaw collaborative research between their Silicon Valley laboratory and local startups; after returning to Japan, engaged in commercialization of internet telephony technology; later with their intellectual property division, handled cases regarding standard-essential patents, patent pools, and patent trolls; contributed expertise as a lecturer for the Intellectual Property Association, the Patent Attorneys Association, and others. "In the intellectual property ecosystem, and with our industry partners, I work to support the advancement of Tokyo Tech property creation and utilization."
Naoko Honda
University Research Administrator (URA)
Intellectual Property Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Starting at Tokyo Tech's former technology licensing organization Rikougaku Shinkoukai, she now continues her work at the university in intellectual property licensing, technology transfer, and joint patent application agreements. "Negotiating with industry can be an unforgiving stage. I will do my utmost to promote Tokyo Tech research and contribute to creating value with our industry partners."
Yumiko Machida
University Research Administrator (URA)
Intellectual Property Section
Office of Research and Innovation
After completing her bachelor's degree of science and gaining experience with a printing company, began working in the industry liaison office of a national research and development agency and later for two universities (including Tokyo Tech) ;engaged in patent examinations for a university-affiliated venture capital firm; passed the patent attorney exam and became an intellectual property analyst (patents); current responsibilities in IP licensing and contract negotiations with start-up companies. "Being involved in technology transfer and experiencing the various ways that research transitions into commercialization is very exciting. With diligence, I hope to support Tokyo Tech efforts in bringing innovations to society."
Chiaki Seino
Specially Appointed Professor
Head, Venture Development and Relations Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Completed her bachelor's and master's degrees at the Hokkaido University Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences; with the Japan Patent Office, gained experience in patent examination, trials, and appeals for medical and biotechnology fields; in addition to her current work with the Venture Development and Relations Section, also provides support for patent applications and industry liaison for biology fields. "I will do my utmost to help enhance Tokyo Tech research and share its discoveries with society."
Kimihiro Inagawa
University Research Administrator (URA)
Venture Development and Relations Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Received bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and master's in business administration; worked for several global companies in the fields of medical technology, semiconductors, and information systems, performing roles in project management, business development, market research and marketing, and business administration; also provided mentoring for startups through a small and medium enterprises accelerator program. "I look forward to assisting in turning Tokyo Tech research results into business ventures and helping students with ambitions to create new startups."
Yoko Inoue
University Research Administrator (URA)
Venture Development and Relations Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Experienced in business creation, corporate planning, organizational design, and human resources for the IT, car manufacturing, and direct-to-consumer industries; from "intrapreneurship" to business management, engaged in programs to generate new industries and business models, organizational design to promote entrepreneurship, and managerial decision-making and execution that led to turning points in the organization. "Utilizing my business world network, I will contribute to building the foundations to support the next unicorn start-ups that will drive the growth of our society via 'technology that the world would be proud of' by Tokyo Tech."
Toru Hanafusa
University Research Administrator (Head URA)
Head, Legal Affairs Section
Office of Research and Innovation
After obtaining a master's degree in agriculture, worked for 17 years at a pharmaceutical company handling licensing contracts and other negotiation duties; subsequently acquired an attorney license and worked at a law firm before joining legal affairs at Tokyo Tech's Office of Research and Innovation. "My main duties are to review and revise all types of contracts used in collaborations with industry. As a member of the Legal Affairs Section, I am also responsible for risk management, including conflicts of interest, within the scope of academia-industry collaboration."
Ken Tagami
University Research Administrator (URA)
Legal Affairs Section
Office of Research and Innovation
Graduated from Waseda University, First Department of Literature; worked for 14 years as a systems engineer at a major electronics manufacturer, focusing mainly on large-scale systems for the central government; continued at the same company for another 18 years working in legal affairs and intellectual property before joining Tokyo Tech. "By supporting establishment of research contracts and other activities with industry, I look forward to helping society reap the benefits of Tokyo Tech research."
Hiroshi Hayama
University Research Administrator (URA)
School of Science
Obtained bachelor's degree in electrical and electronic engineering, and master's and doctoral degrees in physical electronics, all from Tokyo Tech; specializes in semiconductors and flat-panel display technology; worked for many years in R&D for an electronics manufacturer; also engaged in several national projects; after gaining experience in the operations division, began work at JST focusing on university intellectual property. "By understanding of the research fields and funding situations of our faculty at the School of Science, and by utilizing my relevant experience, I will strive to support research and industry collaboration."
Yoshikazu Yamada
University Research Administrator (URA)
School of Engineering
Graduated from the School of Mechanical Sciences and Engineering at Tokyo Tech; specializes in mechanical engineering; spent 38 years at a construction machinery manufacturer engaging in development of construction machinery, industrial machinery, and production technology; developed a broad engineering backbone through his prior responsibilities and involvement in collaborative projects with Tokyo Tech. "As a URA for the School of Engineering, I intend to use my experience to contribute, to the best of my ability, in enhancing research and academia-industry collaboration."
Shin-Ichi Hamaguchi
University Research Administrator (URA)
School of Materials and Chemical Technology
Obtained bachelor's and master's degrees from the Department of Physics and Graduate School of Science, respectively, at Kyushu University; received a doctor of engineering degree in management science and technology from the Graduate School of Engineering at Tohoku University. "In industry, I worked on development of electron-beam lithography systems, development management, company management planning, and joint venture marketing. Then in government, I took on the role of NEDO subcommittee chair. Now in academia, as a URA for Tokyo Tech's School of Materials and Chemical Technology, I strive to contribute to bringing the outcomes of Tokyo Tech research to society."
Takashi Harada
University Research Administrator (URA)
School of Computing
Prior to his current post, worked as a research fellow at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, NEDO fellow, assistant coordinator at the University of Tsukuba, URA at the University of Fukui, and specially appointed assistant professor at Tokyo Tech; learned about intellectual property management during his years in graduate school, inspiring him to enter the field of academia-industry collaboration. "Big data analysis, IoT, cyber security, simulation, and other information communication technology have become the basis of industry. Through my work in supporting research, I hope to contribute to meeting the needs of society."
Machiko Nakatogawa
University Research Administrator (URA)
School of Life Science and Technology
Received bachelor's degree in chemistry from the University of Toyama, and master's and doctoral degrees in chemistry from Kyoto University; worked as a postdoctoral researcher for 4 years at Nagoya University Graduate School of Science and 9 years with Tokyo Tech at the Frontier Research Center (now the Institute of Innovative Research) and School of Life Science and Technology. "I hope to contribute to further developing collaborations with industry and sharing Tokyo Tech's advances in life science and technology with society.""
Susumu Yoneyama
University Research Administrator (URA)
School of Environment and Society
Received a master's degree at Tokyo Tech; while working for a think tank and consulting firm, was responsible for over 300 management and business consulting projects in the public and private sectors, mainly in Japan and Asia; also an avid mountain climber. "My goal is to use my project experience and network to help researchers to achieve results, thereby contributing to the further development of Tokyo Tech and enhancing Japan's competitiveness. Feel free to consult me."
Yuji Kawabata
Specially Appointed Professor
Institute of Innovative Research
After graduating from Kyushu University, Faculty of Engineering, continued at the university for 12 years as an assistant and associate professor researching spectroscopy; moved on to a camera and printer manufacturer and worked for 23 years in biology, inkjet recording, materials, devices, and simulations analyses, becoming a veritable jack of all trades. "Utilizing the breadth of my experience, I look forward to further challenging myself in support of projects leading to new innovations."
Yoshikazu Kobayashi
Specially Appointed Associate Professor
Institute of Innovative Research
Received a doctor of science degree from the Department of Geography and Hydrology, Graduate School of Geosciences at the University of Tsukuba; specializes in forest hydrology and micrometeorology; following work as a postdoctoral researcher, changed course and became a research supporter, a URA; started at the Department of Research Projects at JST (the department overseeing ERATO) before joining Tokyo Tech's Research Project Support Center and later the Earth-Life Science Institute; also worked as a URA at Niigata University before returning to Tokyo Tech in November 2016 as a URA at the Institute of Innovative Research. "URA is an occupation with little history. I will use my experience to support you in intensifying and developing your research. Through these efforts, I hope people will recognize the indispensable contributions that URAs make to university research."
Shigetoshi Sugio
Specially Appointed Professor
Institute of Innovative Research
After receiving a doctor of pharmacy from the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Osaka University, spent 31 years in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, specializing in structural biology, protein science, and drug development science; while engaging in research, business development, and product development, gained experience in acquiring competitive research funds, serving as a member on multiple review committees, and managing internal and external operations. "I understand the hard work involved both at the production floor and in management. I will help you to identify opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration inside and outside the university, as well as with industry, fostering new value through Tokyo Tech research."
Alexander May
Specially Appointed Assistant Professor
Institute of Innovative Research
Received degrees from the Faculties of Arts and Science at Monash University, specializing in Japanese, political science, and biochemistry; while a doctoral student, participated in a 2-year study abroad at Yoshinori Ohsumi's laboratory; after graduation, rejoined Ohsumi Lab through WRHI as a specially appointed assistant professor; currently working concurrently as a researcher and URA. "I work to contribute to internationalization at Tokyo Tech."
Kazuyoshi Yamaguchi
Specially Appointed Professor
(Laboratory for Future Interdisciplinary Research of Science and Technology)
Institute of Innovative Research
After working in the steel industry, served as an industry liaison coordinator for 17 years at the Graduate School of Engineering at Tohoku University; specializes in metal and inorganic materials, environment and energy, waste recycling, and medical equipment manufacturing. "By identifying and matching the needs of industry with the seeds of research at Tokyo Tech, I work to promote collaborative research and provide support in securing public and private research funds. I am constantly on the lookout for funding opportunities to ensure that the research can continue uninterrupted."
Hiroyasu Mochizuki
Specially Appointed Professor
Laboratory for Advanced Nuclear Energy
Institute of Innovative Research
Received a doctor of engineering degree from the Graduate School of Science and Engineering at Tokyo Tech; specializes in atomic reactor heat transfer flow; performed heat transfer experiments using large-scale test facilities and developed analysis code at JAEA; served as a professor at the Fukui University's graduate school and Research Institute of Nuclear Engineering; currently a specially appointed professor at Tokyo Tech. "I use my experience in securing research funds to ensure that as many researchers as possible achieve their goals. I am also involved in organizing international conferences, public relations, and other projects to help researchers reduce the time they spend on non-research activities."
Katsuhiko Shionoya
University Research Administrator (URA)
Project Creative Manager
Open Innovation Platform
Obtained a master's degree in metallurgical engineering from Tokyo University Graduate School of Engineering; began as a researcher and intellectual property officer for a mining company, as well as for an electronics and storage media manufacturer; spent the next 14 years working at the intellectual property department of Tohoku University (post-corporatization); also has experience with university startup ventures. "Utilizing my experience in industry, intellectual property, and academic-industry collaboration, I hope to create initiatives that will provide Tokyo Tech with a constant flow of talent and resources."
Hideyuki Myojin
University Research Administrator (URA)
Project Creative Manager
Open Innovation Platform
In this era of fast-paced R&D, self-sufficiency has been replaced with open innovation, taking skills, knowledge, and ideas from academia and applying them to create new products and services. Tokyo Tech also strongly promotes open innovation, which is my area of responsibility. Previously I worked in the telecommunications industry, engaging in R&D, corporate planning, and environment and energy consulting. I now utilize this experience in responding to the needs of Tokyo Tech and its partners in open innovation. If I can be of assistance, feel free to consult me.
Takashi Nagai
University Research Administrator (URA)
Intellectual Property Creative Manager
Office of Research and Innovation
Received a bachelor's degree in engineering from Osaka University, and a master's degree from Tokyo Tech; licensed patent attorney; started as a researcher at a chemical company; then joined their intellectual property department and gained experience in patent applications, agreements, and strategy; also active in Japan intellectual property associations and Japan patent attorneys association; later joined the Japan Patent Office as a consultant, conducting analyses for trials and appeals. "With my background in industry and intellectual property, I look forward to contributing to open innovation at Tokyo Tech."
Yasunori Kitano
University Research Administrator (URA)
Marketing Creative Manager
Office of Research and Innovation
Completed bachelor and doctor of engineering degrees at Tokyo Tech's School of Engineering and Graduate School of Engineering, respectively; at pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, engaged in drug discovery research, research management, technology sales, business development, joint research and ventures, and other activities. "I look forward to building trusting relationships between the university and industry that will allow for smooth and mutual growth. While sharing in the excitement of the technology transfer process, I hope to contribute to maximizing the of Tokyo Tech- industry collaborations and further elevating the university's presence in the world."
Kaoru Nishimura
University Research Administrator (URA)
Earth-Life Science Institute (ELSI)
Completed undergraduate training in informatics and linguistics at Kyoto University, Faculty of Letters and Paris Diderot University; worked as an assistant at CNRS Tokyo Office, as well as at Tokyo University's Institute of Industrial Science and Institute of Medical Science as a URA; received master's degrees in humanities and culture from The Open University of Japan and in technology management from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. "Even before research administration became an occupation in Japan, I was doing URA-related work at CNRS in international affairs and sci-tech policy. I look forward to expanding the global research environment achieved at ELSI to the entire university, bringing together top researchers from around the world."
Akira Yokota
University Research Administrator (URA)
Earth-Life Science Institute (ELSI)
Received a master of science degree from Tokyo Tech and completed coursework towards a doctoral degree; worked as technical support staff at the Department of Physics, with responsibilities in equipment sharing programs; in his current position at the Earth-Life Science Institute (ELSI), provides support for scientists gathering from around the world to study the origins of Earth and origins of life. "In this international, interdisciplinary environment, I seek to contribute to the four objectives set forth by the MEXT World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI): advancement of leading edge research, establishing international research environments, reforming research organizations, and creating interdisciplinary domains."
Akira Hyugaji
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Center for the Earth Inclusive Sensing Empathizing with Silent Voices (EISESiV)
After completing a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering at Tokyo Tech, joined NEC in 1983; held responsibilities in R&D management, market and technology trends analysis, and intellectual property; in July 2018 joined EISESiV, a research center supported by the Center of Innovation program to promote industry-academia collaboration and technology adoption. "By applying my experience and expectations on innovation, I wish to help in strengthening our links with industry and contributing Tokyo Tech's discoveries to society."
Makoto Takechi
University Research Administrator (URA)
Research Center for the Earth Inclusive Sensing Empathizing with Silent Voices (EISESiV)
Completed the Graduate School of Engineering program at Hokkaido University, specializing in electronic engineering; at Hitachi, engaged in designing DRAM, CMOS logic LSI, and automatic design libraries; later at the Semiconductor Technology Academic Research Center (STARC), worked in development of industry-standard libraries and prototyping services for universities; prior to becoming a URA, served as a coordinator at Tokyo Tech's Collaborative Research Center for Happiness Co-Creation Society through Intelligent Communications. "I will work with researchers to improve their research environment, create new value from their research, and promote utilization of their findings in society."
Akira Tanaka
University Research Administrator (URA)
Consortium for Socio-Functional Continuity Technology (SOFTech)
Received degree in molecular biology, focusing on E. coli and plants; joined a major chemical company and engaged in planning and management of life sciences projects; later joined Nara Institute of Science and Technology as a senior URA focusing on research support; currently responsible for administration management, planning, and development of OPERA-supported programs. "Using my experience in the private and academic sectors, I hope to create a model for large-scale academia-industry collaborations."
Hiroaki Uematsu
University Research Administrator (URA)
Yamamoto Atom Hybrid Project
Specializes in life sciences and medical technology; while working in the chemical and medical industries, engaged in research and development of genetic testing systems and biodevices; having also worked at the Japan Science and Techology Agency for five years, current activities primarily involve advising on funding applications and developing academia-industry collaborations. "My goal is to promote the application of research through academia-industry collaboration."
Susumu Yasuda
University Research Administrator (URA)
Quantum Leap Flagship Program (Q-LEAP), School of Engineering
URA for quantum metrology and sensing areas promoted by the Quantum Leap Flagship Program (Q-LEAP); while employed with an electronics manufacturer, had responsibilities ranging from development management to IP core licensing for various high-speed interface-equipped system LSIs; later with a nationally funded project on solid-state quantum sensors, engaged in business planning and instrumentation development for practical application. "Utilizing the experience I have gained to date, I will provide support for our researchers' projects in any way I can."
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