Cultivating human resources in the field of ocean science
Sasakawa Scientific Research Grant
This program has been continuously operated for more than three decades in accordance with a policy of providing research grants to young researchers in possession of novel ideas, originality, or budding potential, including generous grants in fields of basic research that might otherwise escape attention. More than 300 young researchers in total receive over 200 million yen in grants that cover research costs each year. In each of five different categories of general scientific research as well as the field of practical research, a special division for ocean-related research has been established to help promote research in the area of ocean science in Japan. Even after a researcher receives a grant, he or she continues to be supported for presenting research results at overseas academic conferences, introducing research results to private companies and publishing general books on research results.
Science Mentor Program
Junior high school and high school students from across Japan who are interested in engaging freely in scientific research (both individuals and groups) are invited to submit plans for research they wish to conduct, which will be subject to document evaluations and an initial interview process carried out by professional scientists. Students (mentees) passed receive guidance from professional scientists specializing in applicable fields (from universities and research institutes). After research plans are completed and a second interview is carried out, the pool of prospective plans is whittled down to around twenty projects. Mentors are provided research guidance for at least six months (according to requests of the mentee) and the fundamentals of scientific research are taught. Each year, multiple research plans in the marine field are adopted.
Scientific Experiment Database Program
Information related to scientific phenomena in our daily lives and to nature or culture are disseminated online as “Scientific Experiments Data” and the “Formative Experiences Column” to encourage pupils and students to pursue science for themselves. Information on the ocean is also included.
