Selected for the AIST "Kakusei" Project (FY2026)

Overview I was selected for the 令和8年度 覚醒プロジェクト (FY2026 "Kakusei" Project), run by the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) with Kadokawa ASCII Research Laboratories as the secretariat. The programme backs young researchers pursuing original, unconventional deep tech R&D that tackles societal problems, across four fields: AI, life engineering, materials & chemistry, and quantum. What the programme provides Funding — up to ¥3M (salary + research expenses). Facilities — access to AIST's leading edge research infrastructure, including the ABCI 3.0 supercomputer and the MPI platform. People — a dedicated project manager, plus a network of fellow awardees and experienced mentors. Programme page: kakusei.aist.go.jp/r8