Tohoku University Human Capital Management Office

Commitment for Talent

In November 2024, Tohoku University was officially certified as the first ‘University for International Research Excellence’ by the Japanese government. As part of its reform proposal, Tohoku University set forth ‘Commitment for Talent’ as one of its core pledges.

To fulfill this pledge, the Human Capital Management Office (HCM Office) was established as a university-wide initiative.

Under the direction of the provost, the HCM Office operates under 4 divisions: the Division for Research Staff Management, Division for Administrative Staff Management, Division for Common Strategies, and Operations Support Division.

Tohoku University is establishing a flexible and dynamic research system centered around Principal Investigators (PIs). To achieve this, the HCM Office aims to strategically manage the next-generation workforce and foster an environment that comprehensively promotes expertise, diversity, and innovation.

With enhanced HCM capabilities that support and nurture a diverse workforce, Tohoku University will be able to provide flexible and rewarding career paths, improve work environments, and promote skill development tailored to individual strengths, ultimately boosting human capital and advancing university management.

Attracting World-Class Researchers: Our Strategic Approach to Enhancing International Brain Circulation

Leveraging its funding as Japan’s first University for International Research Excellence, Tohoku University is investing 30 billion JPY over five years to recruit leading researchers from around the world.

Tohoku University’s HR Track for International Excellence: 500 Research Positions Over 5 Years with 30 billion JPY Investment

Outstanding Principal Investigators (PIs) are offered internationally competitive compensation packages and state-of-the-art research environment
Early- and mid-career researchers gain early independence as PIs by leading their own research units and are supported by a comprehensive tenure-track system

International Excellence Researchers

Compensation and research funding tailored to each candidate’s research excellence, with no predefined cap
Flexible, location-independent appointment options based on the PI’s preferences
Comprehensive support services available for living arrangements and accompanying partners

Early- and Mid-Career Researchers

Primarily recruited through open calls
Tenure-track system allowing PIs to pursue ambitious research projects
Several million JPY provided annually as start-up and basic research funding

Research Positions Inquiry

Flexible Appointment Options

Tohoku University attracts top-tier faculty from around the world, providing them with the resources and support needed to lead groundbreaking research. For those unable to relocate or commit full-time, flexible appointment options are available, enabling individuals to contribute their expertise and lead research projects while maintaining their current positions.

Affiliate Professor Appointment

A flexible arrangement between Tohoku University and the individual researcher, with all terms (e.g. responsibilities, duration, compensation) outlined in a personal contract.

Cross-Appointment

An arrangement that allows for the researcher to be officially employed at both Tohoku University and another institution. A formal agreement between the university outlines key terms, including time commitment and salary payment.

Divisions