Diversification of Research Faculty in Japan and Its Determinants: A Quantitative Analysis of Job Titles Using KAKEN Data

Abstract

　This study aims to analyze the current state of diversification among university faculty participating in Japan's JSPS KAKENHI Grant, as well as the external and internal factors influencing this diversification. Specifically, using job title data from the KAKEN database, we tracked changes in faculty positions and statuses and conducted a quantitative analysis of the job titles. The results revealed an addition of duties beyond educational research, progress in role-sharing, and increasing complexity in positions and statuses. Furthermore, external factors promoting diversification were identified, including science and technology policies emphasizing the advancement of young and female researchers and university management reforms. Moreover, the strategies of universities aimed at maintaining research activities were suggested to contribute to the complexity of positions and statuses as internal factors. At first glance, the job title information included in KAKEN may seem like nothing more than simple labels, but it demonstrates its potential value as an informational resource for elucidating the diversification of research faculty.