Webinar Video Available: Japan Studies – Next-Gen Career Paths: Interdisciplinary and Diverse Trajectories
On September 26, 2025, The Nippon Foundation Scholars Association (TNFSA) hosted an online discussion on next-generation career paths in Japan Studies. The recording is now available from here.
The field has undergone seismic changes in recent decades, leaving many scholars understandably concerned about the future. At the same time, numerous important and impactful actors in Japan 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 webinar is the first in a 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.
Moderator:
・Dr Chris Hayes—Senior Lecturer in Events Management, Tourism & Marketing at the University of Chester,
Panelists (Alphabetical):
・Dr Carolin Becke—King’s College London; Manager of Strategic Cooperations & CRM for AFS Interkulturelle Begegnungen e.V.
・Tom Learmouth— London School of Economics
・Dr Stephanie Santschi—University of Zurich
・Dr Saskia Thoelen—Bunka Gakuen University
Looking ahead, the second and third webinars in this series will be held in November and January, focusing on:
・Cross-disciplinary collaboration (Nov 14, 2025)
・Networks, funding, and institutions (Jan 2026)