2019 Volume 34 Issue 3 Pages 238-257
Research performed at universities and public research institutions are crucial for the creation of new industry and for the enhancement of quality of life of the people. It contributes to improve the scientific literacy of the people and to develop human resources for research by stimulating scientific curiosity of the people. However, it is pointed out that research capability in Japan has been declined in recent years. In this paper, analyses of current situation of research activities at universities and public institutions are presented. The discussions made in this paper include the followings: (1) recognition of situation of research activities, (2) research funding, (3) governance and evaluation of universities and research institutions, (4) research performance, (5) human resources. Several recommendations for the improvement of research capacity in Japan through comparison with major overseas countries and through analyses of current research systems in Japan are presented.
