2024
National University Corporation

University of Tsukuba
Tsukuba -Plant Innovation Research Center"Plant Transgenic Design Initiative (PTraD)" Joint Usage and Joint Research Project
Additional Application Guidelines

The Tsukuba Plant Innovation Research Center (T-PIRC) of the University of Tsukuba has
been certified joint usage/research center project entitled "Plant Transgenic Design Initiative(PTraD)" by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology since 2010, andhas developed a transformative plant design base business that combines basic research on plants
and basic technologies related to the development of genetically modified plants. In order to conduct
basic research on transformation technology, which is considered a bottleneck for building
collaboration and practical application between related fields, field research on transformed plants,and environmental risk assessment research in an integrated manner, joint usage/joint research
projects are publicly solicited from related research communities, and are selected and implemented.
In the 3rd phase of PTraD since 2022, in addition to joint research that contributes to thefurther progress of basic and applied research on plant genes and the promotion ofinternationalization, we will work on a project for joint research on social implementation researchusing isolation fields, special netted-houses, and fields that T-PIRC possesses for the developmentof varieties using new plant breeding technologies including genome editing technology and theirsocial acceptance.
Based on this, we are now accepting applications for joint research in FY2024.

If you have any questions, please contact us by e-mail at the following address.
E-mail: ptrad@gene.tsukuba.ac.jp

１．Joint Usage and Joint Research Themes to be Publicly Solicited(1) Fundamental Technology Research Group [Research Group Leader: Hiroshi Shiba]
In this research group, we will search for practical genes related to morphology, environmental
response, and - interactions in plants. In addition, we will search for genes related to the production
and accumulation of functional substances in plants. Furthermore, we are working on functional
analysis by expressing proteins from these useful genes in plants.
In joint usage and joint research in this research group, we can provide technical support for mutant
screening, creation of multiple mutants, analysis of gene expression levels, and protein expressionin plants.

(Specific joint usage/joint research)① Search for practical genes related to the regulation of plant morphology and environmental
response, and - interactions② Search for useful genes related to the production of functional substances in plants③ Mass expression of proteins in plants and their purification(2) Experimental Plant Bioresource Research Group [Research Group Leader: Hiroshi Ezura]
This research group conducts research infrastructure for model crops such as tomatoes such as
development, maintenance, and conservation, and research and development (TILLING, BAC
library, etc.) to utilize them. In the future, we will work on the analysis of important traits of crops(fruit size and yield, production and accumulation of functional metabolites, resistance to diseased
microorganisms, etc.) utilizing the genetic resources of model crops.
In joint usage and joint research by this research group, in addition to the wild tomato species andcultivars possessed, large-scale mutagenesis strains of the model strain Micro-tom and the TILLING
platform can be utilized. We also provide support on how to use them effectively.
(Specific examples of joint usage/joint research)① Analysis of important crop traits using model crop genetic resources② Development of tools to utilize model crop genetic resources③ Development of new resources for model crops(3) Genome Editing /Transformation Technology Utilization Research Group [Research GroupLeader: Chiaki Matsukura]This research group focuses on the development of new plant breeding technologies, including novel
plant transformation technologies and genome editing technologies, and the development oftransformed plants with new functions and high added value. Specifically, we evaluate the traits ofvarious useful genes isolated and identified in plants, microorganisms, animals, etc. by introducing
and controlling their expression in crops. We aim to expand the possibilities of using transformation
technology while actively collaborating with industry.

In joint usage/joint research in this research group, we can provide technical support for thedevelopment of new plant breeding technologies including gene transfer technology and genome
editing technology for various plants, gene expression regulation, analysis of gene expression levels,and basic evaluation tests of gene modified organisms.
(Specific examples of joint usage/joint research)① Development of efficient and effective gene transfer and expression control technologies forplants
② Development of new plant breeding technologies, including genome editing technology③ Creation of new crop varieties that accumulate useful substances and evaluation of safety andcharacteristics④ Creation of new crop varieties with high value-added traits related to yield, disease resistance,
suitability for cultivation and processing, etc.
(4) Biodiversity Impact Assessment/Environmental Risk Assessment, Management ResearchGroup [Research Group Leader: Akira Kikuchi]
In this research group, risk assessments, which are essential for the field use of biotechnologyderived plants and agricultural products, including transformation technologies, are conducted in
specified net rooms and isolated fields. In addition, for biodiversity impact assessment, we are tasked
with accumulating the scientific knowledge necessary for evaluation and management techniques
for biotechnology-derived plants. We will also study the application of biodiversity impact
assessment methods according to the characteristics of biotechnology-derived plants, and develop acultivation and management system for biotechnology-derived plants according to their properties
for perennial trees and vegetatively propagated herbaceous plants. In addition, we will be involvedin management, conduct safety research on individual biotechnology-derived plants, and proceedwith case study.
In joint usage and joint research by this research group, we can provide various know-how andtechnical support for implementation, such as intensive assessment of individual traits in specificnetwork rooms, individual biodiversity impact assessment techniques and applications,comprehensive evaluation and preparation of documents for applications for approval of Type I use
regulations, and comprehensive biodiversity impact assessment and management in isolated fields.
In addition, we can provide information on the risk of diffusion that should be noted whendeveloping biotechnology-derived plants and information on risk assessment in the field use of
biotechnology-derived plants.

(Specific joint usage/joint research)① Construction of examples of cultivation and management methods for genetically modified
plants in specific reticence rooms and isolated fields② Development of case studies of cultivation and management methods for genetically modified
plants with outdoor planting in mind
③ Development of technologies such as new applications and simplification of biodiversity impact
assessment④ Research on establishing a foundation for biodiversity impact assessment and management
technology for transforming plants⑤ Research on environmental diffusion risk assessment of transgenes and development oftechnologies to prevent diffusion(5) Industry-Academia-Government Collaboration Practical Assessment Group[Research Group Leader: Hiroshi Ezura]
This research group conducts cultivar development using new plant breeding technologies including
genome editing technology for model crops, and social implementation research-type joint researchusing isolated fields, specific net chambers, and fields. This research group will more actively accept
joint research between universities and private companies, and promote exit-oriented research forsocial implementation through industry-academia-government collaboration.
In joint usage and joint research by this research group, it is possible to provide information on theestablishment of cultivation and production technologies for the launch of genome-edited crops,
etc., and efforts for social implementation for smooth social acceptance of genome-edited crops.
(Specific joint usage/joint research)① Variety development using new plant breeding technologies, including genome editing
technology② Establishment of cultivation and production technologies that realize high production and highadded value using the field③ Social acceptance research for social implementation of genome-edited crops, etc.

(6) Ethical, Legal and Social Issues (ELSI)/Enhance Understanding Group [Research Group
Leader: Kazuo Watanabe]
In this research group, various information on biotechnology-derived plants, crops, feed, food, foodadditives, etc., including transformation technology (environmental impact assessment, food / foodadditive safety assessment, safety assessment as feed, LMO We conduct research that contributes
to the development of new evaluation, detection, and analysis methods, and the planning ofdevelopment strategies for biotechnology-derived plants according to the purpose. In addition, inorder to promote the social acceptance of biotechnology-derived plants, we will develop and practiceeffective methods to contribute to the promotion of understanding through interactive discussions
and experiences, while providing correct information not only to researchers but also to society atlarge. In addition, we support a wide range of research and research such as the acquisition of genetic
resources and bioresources and rights management as biotechnology research resources. In addition,
we will actively develop teaching materials and develop and practice effective methods to promotesocial acceptance through education at junior high and high schools and liberal arts education(including gene literacy education) at universities.
In joint usage and joint research in this research group, biotechnology-derived plants and related
genetic resources accumulated so far You can use various information, materials, textbooks andteaching materials for junior high and high schools, PowerPoint for presentations used in lectures
for social acceptance, etc. In addition, we will provide and provide guidance on various methods for
improving understanding of participatory communication and genetic recombination experiments
for educational purposes, including know-how. In addition, we provide information and guidanceon strategic planning from cultivation to development of various biotechnology-derived plants andrelated genetic resources aimed at practical use, including legal issues.
(Specific examples of joint usage/joint research)① International comparison and dissemination of information on environmental impact
assessment of genetically modified plants② Development of new evaluation concepts and methods for safety assessment of geneticallymodified plant-derived foods③ Development and practice of effective methods for promoting social acceptance ofbiotechnology-derived plants④ Research on the acquisition and management of genetic resources⑤ Development and implementation of teaching materials for biotechnology literacy education injunior and senior high schools

(7) Others
Joint usage/joint research on other research topics related to the design of biotechnological plants,including transformation techniques.
2. Application category
A-1 type (general type)
Joint Usage and Joint Research Projects with a maximum of 400,000 yen per project
A small number will be recruited and adopted after the start of the fiscal year (around April or May).

A-2 type (general type, young type)
Among Joint Usage and Joint Research projects with a maximum cost of 400,000 yen per project,
the principal investigator is a young researcher (a researcher who is 40 years old or younger as ofApril 1, 2024).
A small number will be recruited and adopted after the start of the fiscal year (around April or May).
Type B (specialized for the use of special facilities and equipment)
Joint Usage and Joint Research Project Specializing in the Use of Special Facilities and Equipmentof the Tsukuba -Plant Innovation Research Center with a maximum cost of 50,000 yen per project.
This research is being recruited at any time outside of this application period depending on thebudget situation.
Type C (Information Dissemination Technology Research *Including holding symposiums andworkshops)
Limited to the Information Dissemination Technology Research Group, we will support the holdingof the event on the premise that it will be held in collaboration with faculty members of the Tsukuba- Plant Innovation Research Center.
We do not allocate research funds directly to applicants, but please consult with us in advance about
necessary expenses.
This research is being recruited at any time outside of this application period depending on thebudget situation.

Type D (used by overseas collaborative research institutions)
Joint Usage and Joint Research Projects Using Overseas Research Institutions Affiliated with theUniversity of Tsukuba and the Tsukuba - Plant Innovation Research Center (Please contact us inadvance for details) ）3. Eligible Applicants
The principal investigator who submits the application must be a faculty member or researcher who
belongs to a national, public, or private university, public research institute, or private company,
etc., and is engaged in research related to transformative plant design. Graduate students are notallowed to apply as principal investigators, but they can participate as research members.

4. Research Period
After Date of notification of adoption to March 31, 2025
It is also possible to reapply for research projects conducted before 2023
5. How to apply(1) Please download and use the application form from the website of the Tsukuba - Plant
Innovation Research Center (Genetic Research Division).
Homepage: https://gene.t-pirc.tsukuba.ac.jp/joint/recruitment/(2) When applying, please consult with the constituent faculty members of the Plant Transgenic
Design Initiative of the Tsukuba- Plant Innovation Research Center in advance and fill in thecorresponding column on page 1 of the application form 1.
List of Members: https://gene.t-pirc.tsukuba.ac.jp/joint/members/
6. Application Submission Deadline
・Form 1 Application for Joint Usage/Joint Research・1 copy of the letter of consent
Please send the above required documents as an electronic file (PDF) to the following address by
Friday April 26, 2024, 15:00UTC/GMT.

We will reply to your application. If you do not receive a reply within 4 to 5 days, excluding Saturdays,Sundays, and holidays, please contact us at the address below or call us at +81-29-853-6006.
7. Where to send the application form
E-mail：ptrad@gene.tsukuba.ac.jp
Please keep the original in a safe place.
8. Number of Projects Adopted
A-1 type (general type) and A-2 type (general type, young researchers): A few (Young researchers
are welcome to apply.)
Type B (specialized for special facilities and equipment use): A few
Type C (Research on Information Dissemination Technology): A few
Type D (used by overseas collaborative research institutions): A few

9. Notification of results
Adoption or rejection of joint research projects will be decided by the Plant Transgenic

DesignInitiative Steering Council, which includes academic experts from outside the university, Applicants
will be notified directly after Friday, May 17, 2024. In addition, depending on the acceptance reviewof the application documents, there may be conditions for changing the application category orresearch group. The principal investigator of the Joint Research Project will be required to submit
the prescribed documents separately instructed. In addition, in implementing the Joint Usage andJoint Research Project, the person in charge of the project conducting genetic modification
experiments at the Tsukuba -Plant Innovation Research Center will be required to attend a training
course for genetic recombination experiment workers sponsored by University of Tsukuba inaccordance with the university's Regulations for Safety Management of Genetic Recombination
Experiments.

10. Required expenses(1) Only expenses necessary for joint usage/research (research consumables and travel expenses)
will be paid.
(2) Travel expenses required for joint usage/research shall be calculated and reimbursed inaccordance with the University's Travel Expenses Regulations.

11. Reporting of Research Results
The principal investigator of a joint research project must submit a joint research report in theprescribed format to each host faculty member between the end of the research period and April 4,2025,15:00UTC/GMT.
In addition, during or after the research period, we may request a report on the research results ofthe joint usage/joint research project at the research report meeting hosted by this center.
12. Submission of papers
When presenting the results of a joint usage/joint research project as a paper, etc., theacknowledgment should be given as "Joint Usage and Joint Research in the Plant

Transgenic

Design Initiative of the Tsukuba - Plant Innovation Research Center (T-PIRC), University ofTsukuba (English: This research was supported in part by Cooperative Research Grant #XXXX of
the Plant Transgenic Design Initiative (PTraD) by Tsukuba-Plant Innovation Research Center (TPIRC), University of Tsukuba).
In that case, please let us know the publication page, etc.

13. Handling of Intellectual Property Rights
The University of Tsukuba Intellectual Property Regulations(https://www.tsukuba.ac.jp/images/pdf/2004hks12.pdf) apply mutatis mutandis, but pleasecontact us by e-mail if you have any requests.