Hiroshima University established two new programs: the "Distinguished Professors" (DP) program and the "Distinguished Researchers" (DR) program on February 1, 2013. The latter program has recognized junior faculty members leading their research toward the future as DR and also focused on support for their research environments and activities. It has recognized 53 DRs so far since the initiation. The DP/DR Program 

For Fiscal 2024, out of 11 appointed DRs, 3 HIRAKU-Global Researchers, IMATO Keiichi Associate Professor (the 1^st cohort, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering), INAMI Hanae Associate Professor (the 1^st cohort, Hiroshima Astrophysical Science Center), KAWAHARA Daisuke Associate Professor (the 4^th cohort, Hiroshima University Hospital, Department of Radiology) were recognized for the program. The appointee’s academic years are 3 years (2024-2027).