To enable the HIRAKU-Global Researchers (HGRs) to develop their research in an independent manner, a maximum amount of 2 million JPY (to be utilized within the first 2 years of development) is provided to each HGR as start-up research funds.

To help the HGRs with the expenses involved in undertaking collaborative research and/or research exchanges with researchers and/or institutions overseas (travel expenses, accommodation, etc.), a maximum amount of 2 million JPY (to be utilized within the first 3 years of development) in funds is provided to each HGR. These funds can be used for multiple international trips, including short-term trips, as well as for inviting overseas researchers.

The HGRs are encouraged to undertake visits and stays at overseas research facilities, build networks with overseas researchers, develop collaborative international research, etc., in order to develop themselves into world-class researchers. Also, the HGRs are provided with the freedom to explore and choose the overseas research exchange opportunities which they would like to pursue. Furthermore, exchange events with international researchers have also been organized by the Program to support the HGRs in establishing connections with international researchers (Meet and Greet with Nanyang Technological University).

Each academic year, the HIRAKU-Global Program officially welcomes the newest cohort of HGRs and introduces to them the aims, policies and content of the Program through the Starter Course. Furthermore, this event also allows the HGRs to introduce themselves to the Consortium Mentors and have short discussions with them regarding their own career.

List of Starter Courses

4th Cohort:　 September 11, 2023

3rd Cohort:　 August 2, 2022

2nd Cohort:　August 24, 2021

1st Cohort:　 September 4, 2020

The HIRAKU-Global Program assigns experienced and knowledgeable researchers to be the mentors of the HGRs. At the start of the development period, one mentor is assigned to each of the new HGRs (mentees). In general, the mentor-mentee pairing does not change during the development period. The mentors provide guidance and advice from a broad perspective with an eye on the future.

*The details of the Consortium Mentors can be found here.

The peer mentoring system involves the HGRs from one year being paired with the HGRs from the following year (1st Cohort with 2nd Cohort, 2nd Cohort with 3rd Cohort, etc.). By creating and utilizing such a system, the mentoring skills of the HGRs are developed and fruitful exchanges between them are also able to be had.

The HIRAKU-PF system is a portfolio for young researchers which allows for the dissemination of research results and achievements of the HGRs (in both Japanese and English). Furthermore, the system is utilized to organize the mentor meetings (meetings between the HGRs and their Consortium Mentor).