National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), led by President Dr. Yoshikawa, is not a government institution, although funded by Japanese government to large extend. AIST is a rather new research organization established in 2001, however, AIST and its ancestors have been contributing society through continuous advancement in technologies and supports to Japanese industries since 1876.
Headquarters of AIST are located in Tsukuba and Tokyo. AIST has over 50 autonomous research units in various innovative research fields, and the units are located at 9 research bases and several sites (smaller than research bases) of AIST all over Japan. About 2500 research scientists (about 2000 with tenure) and well over 3000 visiting scientists, post doctoral fellows and students are working in AIST. About 700 permanent administrative personnel and many temporary staff supports research works of AIST.
Missions of AIST are as follow, and AIST members are making efforts to accomplish the missions.
- Contribution to a sustainable society.
- Contribution to industrial competitiveness.
- Contribution to local industrial development.
- Contribution to industrial technology policies.
AIST is an equal opportunity organization, however, the percentage of female scientists are still low. As AIST plans to double the figure, female scientists as well as female administrative staff are encouraged to join us. Scientists of foreign nationalities are welcome to join AIST, too.
