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Change the World with Materials

NIMS is one of Japan’s leading research institutions and has been designated as a Designated National Research and Development Institute, a status reserved for organizations expected to deliver world-class research excellence. NIMS holds a unique global position as Japan’s only national research institute dedicated to materials science and technology.

At NIMS, we believe that people are the foundation for sustaining and advancing research at the global level. Accordingly, we place great importance on recruiting exceptional individuals not only for research positions, which directly drive scientific discovery, but also for engineering positions that provide advanced technical expertise. We actively welcome talented professionals from diverse backgrounds—including universities, research institutes, and private industry both in Japan and abroad—and strive to create an environment where original and pioneering research and technological innovation can thrive.

For research positions, NIMS conducts international open recruitment at all levels, from early-career researchers who have just completed their doctoral studies to experienced scientists who have established their research careers at other institutions. Through tenure-track programs such as the ICYS Fellowship, NIMS provides a clear career pathway from graduate study to independent research positions. After appointment, NIMS offers flexible and individualized support, including startup research funding, full coverage of equipment relocation costs, and support for hiring young researchers, ensuring that new members can begin their work immediately. In addition, NIMS has established joint graduate school programs with seven leading Japanese universities, offering opportunities to collaborate with outstanding graduate students recruited through international open calls.

A defining feature of NIMS is its dual emphasis on mission-oriented research at the organizational level and independent, curiosity-driven research initiated by individual researchers. Research achievements are evaluated through fair and transparent processes, and compensation is determined dynamically based on performance.

Building and maintaining such a research-focused environment requires the contributions of highly skilled engineerswith advanced expertise in analytical science, data science, and information technology.

At NIMS, engineers are provided equal professional status and support as researchers, engaging in technical development and innovation that underpin the institute’s scientific excellence.

Kazuhiro Hono, Ph.D.
President, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS)