On Saturday, June 13, the Keio-SPRING* career forum returned to the Raiosha Symposium Space and Event Terrace on Hiyoshi Campus for a full day of events tailored to help doctoral students further their future career paths.
The forum kicked off in the Symposium Space with a keynote address delivered by Yuya Takahashi, an official from the Science and Technology Policy Bureau at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). In his role as Deputy Director of the bureau’s Human Resources Policy Division, Takahashi has been closely involved in policymaking related to the recruitment and professional development of highly skilled research talent, with a focus on doctoral students. Drawing on his extensive experience in the promotion of basic research and science and technology budgeting, Takahashi shared insights on career prospects for PhD holders in an era of declining birthrates and fewer universities. Afterwards, the floor was opened to questions from students attending in person and online for a lively and thought-provoking discussion.
Following the keynote, students listened in rapt attention as representatives from 10 participating companies and members of the Keio University Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship delivered a series of corporate pitches focusing on career paths for doctoral graduates.
To conclude the forum, keynote speaker Yuya Takahashi returned to the stage joined by Professor Teruo Nakatsuma of the Faculty of Economics and two Keio-SPRING doctoral student fellows for a panel discussion titled “Exploring Career Possibilities with Current Doctoral Students.” The discussion built on the panelists' varied experiences, offering valuable perspectives on career opportunities beyond academia.
Meanwhile, on the Event Terrace, students browsed a collection of booths set up by the 10 participating companies and the Keio University Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The companies offered one-on-one career consultations to inquisitive students who sought to learn more about post-graduation professional opportunities.
The more than 100 doctoral, master’s, and undergraduate students who attended this career forum gained a valuable opportunity to explore the career possibilities they can unlock with a doctoral degree.
*The Keio-SPRING project supports the professional development of ambitious doctoral students with funding from the Japan Science and Technology Agency’s Support for Pioneering Research Initiated by the Next Generation (SPRING) program.
Photos: Takeshi Kishi