Webinar Video Available: Japan Studies -- Strengthening for Sustainability: Networks, Funding, and Institutions

Published on February 10, 2026

On January 30 (Fri) 2026, The Nippon Foundation Scholars Association will host an online discussion on institutional collaboration and the avenues it can provide for Japanese studies scholars.

The recording is now available here.

The field has undergone seismic changes in recent decades, leaving many scholars understandably concerned about the future. At the same time, numerous important actors in Japanese studies continue to focus on their own programs. While this contributes to a diverse ecosystem, greater mutual awareness and cooperation could benefit the field as a whole.

This will be the third session in our series designed to bring together participants from all levels of Japan studies—from early-career researchers to organizational leaders—to examine shared challenges, foster dialogue, and encourage new collaborations.

The first two events showcased the work of early- and mid-career scholars, looking at next-generation career paths and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. In contrast, the January session will bring together leaders at regional and national organizations to examine strategies for building collaborative frameworks and the avenues they can provide for research and collaboration.


Title: “
Strengthening for Sustainability: Networks, Funding, and Institutions”

Moderator: James Huffman, Jr (The Nippon Foundation)

Panelists (Alphabetical):

Jennifer Coates (University of Sheffield, BAJS)

 Jody Dixon (AASCU)

 Andreas Niehaus (EAJS)

 Peter Popovics (Copenhagen Business School, SJSF)

 Kiyoteru Tsutsui (Stanford University)

Queries or comments should be sent to James Huffman, Jr. at [email protected].or.jp