A unique collaboration, the Elsevier Foundation and RIKEN, Japan’s premier research institute, have released “ Envisioning Futures: Women’s Leadership and Gender Equity in Japanese Research ,” a comprehensive report that shines a spotlight on the journeys, achievements and challenges faced by women research leaders in Japan. The report blends data-driven analysis with compelling personal narratives, offering a timely roadmap for institutional change and a call to action for the advancement of women in science and innovation.
The report shows that despite Japan’s global reputation for technological innovation, the country continues to grapple with persistent gender disparities in its research community. In a bid to help create a more inclusive and dynamic research ecosystem, “Envisioning Futures” tells stories that are not only testament to the resilience and ingenuity of pioneering women scientists but also serve as beacons of hope. By amplifying women’s voices and recognizing their indispensable contributions, this initiative aims to inspire future generations to break barriers and reimagine what is possible for Japanese science and society. Key highlights:
“The journeys of these pioneering women research leaders remind us that true progress in science depends on inclusion, resilience and collective action. By embracing diverse career paths and recognizing a broader range of achievements, we can build a research ecosystem where all voices are heard and innovation flourishes,” said Dr. Yuko Harayama, Secretary General, Global Partnership on AI (GPAI); Former Executive Director, International Affairs, RIKEN and Former Member, The Elsevier Foundation Board.
“We are proud to partner with RIKEN on ‘Envisioning Futures’. By uniting the powerful stories of Japan’s women research leaders with national data, this report offers both insight and inspiration for change. RIKEN’s leadership and commitment to open dialogue are helping to shape a more inclusive future for Japanese science. Together, we are amplifying women’s voices and paving the way for the next generation of researchers to thrive,” added Ylann Schemm, Executive Director of The Elsevier Foundation.
###
Notes to Editors:
Read the “Envisioning Futures” report, including profiles of female senior leaders and discover actionable recommendations for advancing gender equity in Japanese research.
For additional materials:
Additional quotes from RIKEN PIs:
About The Elsevier Foundation
The Elsevier Foundation contributes over $1 million a year to non-profit organizations through inclusive research and health partnerships which incubate new approaches to catalyze change towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Funded by Elsevier, the Elsevier Foundation is a key part of Elsevier’s commitment to advance inclusive research and healthcare in partnership with the communities it serves. Since 2005, the Elsevier Foundation has contributed over $18 million in grants to over 100 partners in 70 countries around the world. www.elsevierfoundation.org
About Elsevier
Elsevier is a global leader in advanced information and decision support. For over a century, we have been helping advance science and healthcare to advance human progress. We support academic and corporate research communities, doctors, nurses, future healthcare professionals and educators across 170 countries in their vital work. We do this by delivering mission-critical insights and innovative solutions that combine trusted, evidence-based scientific and medical content with cutting-edge AI technologies to help impact makers achieve better outcomes. We champion inclusion and sustainability by embedding these values into our products and culture, working with the communities that we serve. The Elsevier Foundation supports research and health partnerships around the world.
Elsevier is part of RELX , a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.elsevier.com and follow us on social media @elsevierconnect.
[1] Progress towards Gender Equality in Research & Innovation – 2024 Review - Focus on Japan .
[2] Ibid.