About NISTEPNISTEP’s mission within MEXT
The National Institute of Science and Technology Policy (NISTEP) is a national research institute under the direct
jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). NISTEP was establishedunder the National Government Organization Act to play a role in the Japanese government’s process of forming
policy aimed at promoting Japan’s science and technology (S&T). Through its research on science, technology
and innovation (STI) policy, NISTEP contributes to the effective and efficient development of STI policy groundedin evidence-based policymaking (EBPM).
NISTEP’s mission encompasses three roles:

To contribute to evidence-based policymaking inorder to strengthen Japan's research and innovation
capabilities, while responding to changing research activities

To contribute to the advancement of science and technology
policy research by being a hub for policy research
and for cultivating researchers in the field of policy research

To contribute to deepening the public’s
understanding of science, technology and innovation
by disseminating information such as research findings

Major Research Activities
In accordance with the 6th Science, Technology, and Innovation Basic Plan (approved by the Cabinet in March
2021) and the 5th Medium Term Plan of National Institute of Science and Technology Policy (April 2021), NISTEP
engages in research activities mainly in the areas described below.
Research results are released through various channels including “NISTEP REPORT” series, “Research Material”
series, “Discussion Paper” series, reports to governmental advisory councils as well as lectures and presentationsat seminars and international conferences organized by NISTEP, and more.

◆ R&D and Innovation◆ Human Resources in Science, Technology, and Innovation◆ University-Industry Collaboration and Regional Innovation/Science and Technology
and Society◆ Science and Technology Indicators and Scientometrics◆ Science and Technology Foresight and Trend Analysis◆ Data-oriented Research on Promoting Science and Technology and Academia◆ Science of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy / Situation Regarding Scienceand Technology*See page 3 onward for details on each area.

1

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICYDirector
GeneralResearch
SectorStaffStaff
Quota:
44,44,
Quota:
Budget:About
800million
million Yen
April
2021)
Budget:About
800
Yen(as(asofof
April
2021)

1st Theory-Oriented Research Group
Theoretical and empirical studies and research on effects of S&T
on the economy and society

2nd Theory-Oriented Research Group
Statistical studies and research on R&D promotion systems of
S&T

DeputyDirector
GeneralAboutNISTEPNISTEP
About

Organization,
Organization, Personnel
Personnel
and Budget

1st Policy-Oriented Research Group
Empirical studies and research on conditions for promotion of S&T,
such as personnel, relationship of S&T with people and society

2nd Policy-Oriented Research Group

Principal
Senior Fellows

Empirical studies and research on industry-academia
collaboration, academic start-ups, regional innovation

Center for S&T Foresight and Indicators
Theoretical/empirical studies and research on S&T trends and foresight
Theoretical/empirical analysis and research on S&T activities and S&T
policies

Research Unit for Data Application
Studies and research for data application on S&T policies

Research
Support
Sector

General Affairs Division
Personnel, welfare, archives, accounting, supplies, and maintenance

Planning Division
General coordination and planning of surveys and research, PR* Senior research fellows are appointed because of the institute’s need to work across areas.

* Senior research fellows are appointed because of the institute’s need to work across areas.

History
Jul 1988
Jul
1988
Jan 2001
Jan
2001
Jul 2001
Jul 2001
Jan 2004
Jan 2004
Apr 2006

Apr
2006
Jan 2008
Jan 2008
Jul 2013
Jul 2013
Apr 2016
Apr 2016
Apr 2021
2021
Apr

National
ofScience
ScienceandandTechnology
TechnologyPolicy
Policyestablishedestablished(restructured(restructured
fromNational Institute
Institute offromthethe National
Institute of Resources).
National Institute of Resources).
MinistryofEducation,
Education,Culture,
Culture,Sports,ScienceTechnology(MEXT)
establishedthrough
Ministry ofSports,ScienceandandTechnology(MEXT)
establishedthroughadministrative reform. NISTEP became an afﬁliated research institute of MEXT.
administrativereform. NISTEP
becameafﬁliated researchof MEXT.
Scienceand Technology
Foresight
Centeranestablished
as a part instituteof NISTEP.
Science and Technology Foresight Center established as a part of NISTEP.
Relocated from the Common Building for Government Ofﬁces in Nagata-cho to the Postal Services
Relocated from the Common Building for Government Ofﬁces in Nagata-cho to the Postal
Agency Building in Kasumigaseki.
Services Agency Building in Kasumigaseki.
Relocated to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology Building in Marunouchi.
Relocated to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology Building in
Research
Unit for Science and Technology Analysis and Indicators established.
Marunouchi.

Researchto
Unit
ScienceandTechnology
Analysisand Indicators
established. (Chiyoda-ku).
Relocated
theforEast
Wing ofCentralGovernment
Building
No. 7 in Kasumigaseki
Relocated
to
the
East
Wing
of
CentralGovernment
BuildingNo.
7
inKasumigaseki (Chiyoda-ku).
Reorganized with broader remit.
Reorganized with broader remit.
Reorganized with new group structure.
Reorganized with new group structure.
Research
Technology Analysis
Analysis andandIndicators
Indicatorsand
andScience
Scienceandand Technology
ResearchUnit
Unitforfor Science
Science andand Technology
Foresight Center merged to establish the Center for S&T Foresight and Indicators.
Technology Foresight Center merged to establish the Center for S&T Foresight and Indicators.
Research Unit for Data Application established.
Research Unit for Data Application established.

NATIONAL
INSTITUTESCIENCEANDTECHNOLOGYPOLICYNATIONAL
INSTITUTE
OFOFSCIENCEANDTECHNOLOGYPOLICY

22

Research Activities

Research Activities

R&D and Innovation

R&D and Innovation

It is essential to create economic and social value by generating demand and improving
innovation
to andachievesustainable
development.
To provide
objective
evidence that helps
It is essential to create
economicsocial value
by generating
demand and improving
productivity
throughinnovation to achievesustainable
development.
provide objective
evidencethat helps
STI policy,
NISTEP
researches
and Toanalyzes
innovation
activities
at advanceenterprises
as well as Japan’s
NISTEP researches and analyzes innovation activities at enterprises as well as Japan’s innovation system in order
order to gauge the current situation as well as trends.
to gauge the current situation as well as trends.

◆ innovation:
Measuring
innovation:
statisticalresearch statisticaland analysis research and analy◆ Measuring

To aid in the planning,
and advancementof andSTI policy,
NISTEP carries
outpolicy,
the Japanese
National
To aiddrafting,in the planning,drafting,
advancementof STINISTEP
carries out the Japane
Innovation Survey, a government statistical survey (specific general statistical survey) in accordance with
Survey, a government statistical survey (specific general statistical survey) in accordance with iinternational standards. This survey is used to assess the state of innovation at Japanese enterprises andThisassurvey
usedintothis
assessthe survey
state ofinnovation
at Japaneseenterprises
innovation activities
well as istrendsarea. The
resultsare provided
to the Organisation
forand innovation act
Economic Co-operation
Development(OECD),
an international
body,totothe
be usedinternationallybenchmark Co-operation andin thisandarea.
The survey
resultsare provided
Organisation
forasEconomic
data on Japan. The economic impact of the knowledge flow from academic research to industry is analyzed
an international body, to be used internationally as benchmark data on Japan. The economic im
by linking enterprise-level and institution-level data to bibliographical information (e.g. patents and academic
from academic
research
to industry isofanalyzed
by linking
papers). Through flow
this research
NISTEP advances
the understanding
the innovation
systementerprise-level
and the innovationand institution-leveinformation(e.g.background
patents andacademicThroughthis isresearch
NISTEPadvances thprocess that are thesubject of, andbehind,STI policy.papers).
At the sametime, NISTEP
also seeking
toimprove the measurementofinnovation.
innovation system and the innovation process that are the subject of, and background behind, S

time, NISTEP is also seeking to improve the measurement of innovation.
Share of companies realizing product innovation: change over time (unit: %)Share of companies realizing product innovation: change over time (unit: %)(Source: Report on the Japane

Survey 2018 (J-NIS 2018), NIS

Statistics Table 14 (2019), NIST

(2016), NISTEP REPORT No. 156
2012-20142009-2011
Allcompanies

Small
companies

Medium-size
companies

Major
companies

2015-2017
Manufacturing

Services◆ R&D in firms(Source: Report on the Japanese National Innovation Survey 2018 (J-NIS 2018), NISTEP Report No. 182,
Statistics Table 14 (2019), NISTEP Report No. 170 (2016), NISTEP Report No. 156 (2014). )The innovation process is composed of theinteraction among companies, governments,
universities and public research institutions.
From the standpoint of generating innovation, in
formulating and advancing STI policy it isimportant to properly understand R&D activity
trends not only in government, universities andpublic research institutes, but also in the private
enterprises that shoulder about 70% of the R&D
expenditures in Japan. NISTEP conducts the3

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

Survey on Research and Development Activities
of Firms in the Private Sector. This large ongoingsurvey collects data on the R&D activities ofbusiness enterprises. It is a general statisticalsurvey approved by the Minister for Internal
Affairs and Communications pursuant to theStatistics Act. The findings of this highly reliable

External R&D expenditure
as a perc
外部支出研究開発費が研究
0%Electricity,gas, heat & water
電気･ガス･熱供給・水道業
Transport & 運輸業・郵便業
postal services
Other transportation
その他の輸送用機械器具製造業
machinery & equipment

10%

0.5%
2.0%

Professional
services
専門ｻｰﾋﾞｽ業
Wholesale/retail
卸売業・小売業
Academic and development
学術・開発研究機関
research institutions
Business equipment
業務用機械器具製造業
Applied electronics & electronic

電子応用･電気計測機器製造業
measuring instruments
Plastic products
プラスチック製品製造業

14.3%

2.6%

Pharmaceuticals
医薬品製造業
Information
services
情報サービス業

20%

12.6%

5.0%

9.7%

0.4%

9.4%

1.8%

9.3%

1.2%

8.4%

0.9%
2.2%
1.0%
0.5%

7.5%
6.6%

6.4%

d the innovation process that are the subject of, and background behind, STI policy. At the same

eeking to improve the measurement of innovation.

ing product innovation: change over time (unit: %)Survey 2018 (J-NIS 2018), NISTEP Report No. 182,

StatisticsTable
14 (2019),
REPORTNo. universities
170
The innovation process is composedof theinteraction
among NISTEP
companies,
governments,
and publicresearch institutions. From the (2016),
standpointof generating
innovation,
in formulating
and advancing STI policy it is
NISTEPREPORTNo. 156 (2014).
)
important to properly understand R&D activity trends not only in government, universities and public research
institutes, but also in the private enterprises that shoulder about 70% of the R&D expenditures in Japan. NISTEP
conducts
the Survey on Research and Development Activities of Firms in the Private Sector. This large ongoing
2012-20142015-2017
survey collects data on the R&D activities of business enterprises. It is a general statistical survey approved by them-size
Major
Manufacturing
Services
Minister forInternal Affairs and Communications pursuant to the Statistics Act. The findings of this highly reliable
nies
companies
survey are used in forming Japan's STI policy. NISTEP also conducts research aimed at gauging the effects andinfluence of interactions between business enterprises and universities as well as STI policy.

ms

ess is composed of theExternal R&D expenditure as a percentage of total R&D

External R&D expenditure
as a percentage of total R&D
外部支出研究開発費が研究開発支出総額に占める割合

ompanies, governments,
lic research institutions.
f generating innovation, inElectricity,gas, heat & water
電気･ガス･熱供給・水道業

ancing STI policy it isunderstand R&D activity
vernment, universities andその他の輸送用機械器具製造業
machinery & equipment

tes, but also in the private
der about 70% of the R&D
n. NISTEP conducts thend Development Activities
Sector. This large ongoingon the R&D activities of

It is a general statistical
the Minister for Internal
ications pursuant to thedings of this highly reliable

afting Japan's STI policy.
cts research aimed at
d influence of interactions

erprises and universities as

0%Transport & 運輸業・郵便業
postal services
Other transportation

10%

Professional
services
専門ｻｰﾋﾞｽ業
Wholesale/retail
卸売業・小売業
Academic and development
学術・開発研究機関
research institutions
Business equipment
業務用機械器具製造業
Applied electronics & electronic

電子応用･電気計測機器製造業
measuring instruments
Plastic products
プラスチック製品製造業

30%

40%

35.0%

2.0%
14.3%

2.6%

12.6%

5.0%

9.7%

0.4%

9.4%

1.8%

9.3%

1.2%

8.4%

0.9%
2.2%
1.0%
0.5%

50%

42.9%

0.5%

Pharmaceuticals
医薬品製造業
Information
services
情報サービス業

20%

Research Activities◆ R&D in firms(Source: Report on the Japanese National Innovation

7.5%

External R&D

外部支出研究開発費
expenditure (allcompanies, within（全社、国内）Japan)
External R&D
外部支出研究開発費
expenditure (allcompanies, overseas)（全社、海外）6.6%
6.4%(Source: Survey on (Source:
Research and Developmentin the Private Sector
SurveyActivities
on of Firms
Researchand2019,
NISTEP Report No. 186 (2020))

Development Activities of Firms in the Private
Sector 2019, NISTEP Report No. 186 (2020))

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

4

Research Activities

Human Resources in Science, Technology andnnovation
Human Resources in Science, Technology andInnovationo cultivate and nurture human resources in science, technology and innovation and to ensure that research
To cultivate
nurture an
human
resources in science,technologyand
and career
innovationand tofor
ensurethat research
ontinues into the future, it is necessary
to andmaintainunderstandingof systems
paths
researchers.
continues into the future, it is necessary to maintain an understanding of systems and career paths forMoreover, a clear view of the situationon the ground and of issues that affect career path development is required.
researchers. Moreover, a clear view of the situation on the ground and of issues that affect career pathdevelopment
is required. To support
policyconducts
to overcome
career pathchallenges,
NISTEP
conductsofsurveys
ando support policy to overcome career
path challenges,
NISTEP
surveysandprovidesanalysis
issuesprovides analysis of issues affecting the proﬁles and career paths of the researchers who represent the future offfecting the proﬁles and career paths of the researchers who represent the future of science, technology andscience, technology and innovation in Japan.
nnovation in Japan.

◆ Research on STI career paths, diversity, and mobility

Increasing the flowof personnel(such◆ Research on STI career
paths,
diversity,and mobility
as the mobility of researchers amongncreasing the flow of personnel(such asthe environments
mobility of
institutions),
creatingthat foster
friendly competition,andesearchers among institutions), creating
environmentsthat foster
ensuring diversity (such as by including

iendly competition, and ensuring diversity (such as by including
female and foreign researchers)
emale and foreign researchers) willwillsetsetthe
STI
thestagestage forfor Japan'sJapan's STI
researchers
toconduct
researchthatesearchers to conduct research that yields excellent results. To
yields excellent results. To accomplish

ccomplish this, the postgraduate
systemmust
this, educational
the postgraduate
educational
system mustglobalization
cultivate doctoral-level
ultivate doctoral-level talent that addresses
and thetalent that addresses globalizationeeds of industry. However, at present only limited information isand the needs of industry. However,ollected about the path follow byat those
have information
received apresent who
only limitediscollected
about
the
path
by
h.D., and there is no system for understanding how theirfollow
abilities
those who have received a Ph.D., andre being put to use in society.
there is no system for understanding
how their abilities are being put to use

ISTEP is responsible for Japan Doctoral Human Resourcein society.
rofiling (JD-Pro), an ongoing survey
collects information
NISTEPthat
is responsible
for Japan

Doctoral
Human ofResource
Profilingof
bout the employment status and otheraspects
the careers(JD-Pro), an ongoing survey thath.D. holders. NISTEP also manages(JGRAD) to collect information from doctoralc o l l e cthet s i nJapanf o r m a t iGraduateso n a b o u t t h Databaseeemployment status and other aspects of the careers of Ph.D. holders. NISTEP also manages the Japan Graduates
udents and graduates.
Database (JGRAD) to collect information from doctoral students and graduates.

◆ Survey on employment and careers for postdoctoral fellows

NISTEP surveys employment and career paths of postdoctoral fellows at universities and public research institutes◆ Survey on employment
andcareersforpostdoctoral
in Japan. The aimof the Surveyof Postdoctoral
Fellows
Regarding Employment andfellows
Careers in Japan is to provide

data for policymaking regarding training and encouragement of postdoctoral fellows. Conducted by MEXT every

ISTEP surveys employment and career paths of postdoctoral fellows at universities and public research institutes inthree years and covering universities and public research institutes, this survey is approved by the Minister for
apan. The aim of the Survey of Postdoctoral
RegardingandCareersin Statistics
Japan Act,is toprovidedata
Internal Affairs Fellows
and Communications
as aEmployment
general statisticalsurveyunder theand
NISTEP actively

in collecting anddata. Many
governmental
committees
use theresearch
outputsforor policymaking regarding training participatesand encouragementof analyzing
postdoctoral
fellows.
Conducted
by MEXT
every
three
years
purposes such as making science, technology, and innovation policy.
nd covering universities and public research institutes, this survey is approved by the Minister for Internal Affairs andommunications as a general statistical survey under the Statistics Act, and NISTEP actively participates in collecting◆ Research on the employment status of faculty members at researchnd analyzing data. Many governmental
committees use the research outputs for purposes such as making science,
universities
echnology, and innovation policy. Universities are the wellspring of Japan’s STI talent, and the number of faculty members without tenure is on
the rise, meaning they lack stability. For this reason, NISTEP conducts a survey of major research universities (18universities in 2019) to collect information about the age breakdown, titles, and treatment of faculty memberswith and without tenure.

◆Research on the employment status of faculty members at

esearch universities

niversities are thewellspring of Japan’s STI talent, and the number of faculty members without tenure is on the rise,
5 NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
meaning they lack stability. For this reason, NISTEP conducts a survey of major research universities (18 universities in019) to collect information about the age breakdown, titles, and treatment of faculty members with and without tenure.

To achieve the required progress in STI, it is necessary to build appropriate systems and mechanisms. NISTEP
researches and analyzes the state of government-university-industry partnerships, innovation activities, and othersystems and mechanisms inside and outside of Japan so that it can contribute to the planning and drafting ofpolicies and measures concerning S&T systems.

◆ University-industry collaboration and university startups

In order to revitalize innovation in Japan, promotion of university-industry collaboration and open innovation
contributes significantly to making use of new ideas, knowledge, and techniques inside/outside of theorganization.
Regarding university-industry collaboration, the government has decided a number of policies, including theformulation of support systems within universities. Application of those policies is driving innovation in many
universities. To promote these efforts effectively, NISTEP researches industry-academia-government cooperation
to monitor the situation, reveal issues and build up data.
University startups are vehicles for innovation using the outcomes of research conducted by universities andpublic research institutes. For this reason, NISTEP is surveying the founders and employees of university startups
in order to gain clarity on the factors that lead young talent to become involved in university startups.

Research Activities

University-Industry Collaboration andRegional Innovation◆ Innovation-related activities at the regional level

Excellence in science and technology activities and innovation-related activities at the regional level areconsidered to be the basis of progress, diversiﬁcation, and competitiveness of S&T at the national level. NISTEP
conducts research into regional S&T indicators and their causal relationship with regard to regional innovation inorder to create autonomous and sustainable innovation systems in each region.
Chart Summary-2 Prefectural R&D expenses and Prefectural gross production ratio (2017)(Source: Science and Technology Indicators 2019, Research Material-294 (2020))

Science & Technology and Society
Bringing in the perspectives of users with diverse values is something that is indispensable for creating STI.
Furthermore, gaining the understanding, trust, and support of society is a prerequisite for STI to meet the
expectations of society. This is why it is necessary to deepen relationships through dialogue and collaboration
with diverse stakeholders in order to advance co-creation. This dialogue enables NISTEP to conduct researchon S&T literacy as well as grasping public attitudes to S&T. For example, in 2021 NISTEP conducted the “Public
Attitudes to Science and Technology- Analysis of Determinants of Social Acceptance of New Technology” survey.

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

6

Science
and andTechnology
Indicators
ScienceTechnology
Indicatorsand play an important rolefor grasping
complex and diverse S&T activities, as well as for analyzing the effects
andScientometrics
andScientometrics
Quantitative data regarding S&T and their analyses are an indispensable foundation for formulating S&T policy,

Research Activities

and inﬂuences of S&T policies. Given that S&T activities are the process of producing knowledge, preparing

quantitative data for thisQuantitative
intangible dataprocess
is challenging.
In analyses
additionare
to an
this,
the close linkage
of S&T
activitiesS&T
to policy,
regarding
S&T and theirindispensablefoundation
for formulating
Quantitative data regarding S&T and their analyses are an indispensable foundation for formulating S&T policy,

play thean importantrole for ofgrasping
complex and
S&T activities,
as activities
well as for fromanalyzing
the effects
various other activities andmakesmeasurement
S&T activities
anddiverse
differentiating
S&T
other
and play an important role for grasping complex and diverse S&T activities, as well as for analyzing the effects

and inﬂuences of S&T policies. Given that S&T activities are the process of producing knowledge, preparing
quantitative data for this intangible process is challenging. In addition to this, the close linkage of S&T activities
quantitative data
for this intangible
process is challenging.
In toaddition
this, the closeandlinkage of S&T activities
todeveloping S&T indicatorsand conducting
researchscientometrics
in ordertaketoapplicationof fromto various
other activities
makesinthe
measurement of
S&T activities
anddifferentiatinganalysis
S&T activities
various other activities makes the measurement of S&T activities and differentiating S&T activities from otherquantitative S&T data tootherdeeperlevels.
activities
technically difﬁcult. NISTEP actively confronts the difﬁculties in this area, and that is why we are
activities technically difﬁcult. NISTEP actively confronts the difﬁculties in this area, and that is why we aredeveloping S&T indicators and conducting research in scientometrics in order to take application and analysis ofdeveloping S&T indicators and conducting research in scientometrics in order to take application and analysis ofquantitative S&T data to deeper levels.

activities technically difﬁcult. NISTEP
actively
confronts
the that
difﬁculties
in thisarea,
andof thatis whywe areand inﬂuencesof S&T
policies. Given
S&T activities
are theprocess
producingknowledge,
preparing

quantitative S&T data to deeper levels.

◆ Science and Technology Indicators◆ Science and Technology Indicators◆ Science
Technology
Indicators“Science and Technology Indicators”
is a basicand
resource
for understanding
Japanese“Science and Technology Indicators” is a basic resource for understanding

Research Activities
Research
Activities

Science and Technology Indicators
and Scientometrics“Science
andTechnology
is a basic
resourceresource
for understanding Japanesescience and technology activities
onand
objective
andIndicators”
quantitative
data.
Japanesebased
sciencetechnology
activities basedon Thisobjective and quantitative

science and technology activities based on objective and quantitative data. This resourceclassifies science and data.
technology
activities
intoscience
five andcategories,
asintoR&D
This resourceclassifies
technologysuch
activities
five categories,classifies science and technology activities into five categories, such as R&D
such Higher
as R&D Education
Expenditure;
R&D
Personnel;
Higher
Education
andand
S&T personnel;
Expenditure; R&D Personnel;
andS&T
personnel;
Outputof
R&D;
Expenditure; R&D Personnel; Higher Education and S&T personnel; Output of R&D; andOutputofScience,
R&D;andandScience,Technology,
andshows
Innovation
and andshows thestate
Science, Technology, andInnovation
shows
the
state of andJapanese
Technology,
and Innovation
thesciencestate of Japanesescience andof Japanesescienceandtechnology
activities
withapproximately
170
indicators.
technology
activities
with approximately
170isindicators.
Theannuallyreport is published annuallytechnology activities with approximately
170
indicators.
The reportpublished

The reportis shows
publishedannually
andof shows
the latest
results of
the analysesofandthe latest
results
the analysesof scientificpublications
and patentand shows the latest resultsofapplications
the analyses
of byscientificpublications
and patentscientific publications
and patentapplications
conducted by the NISTEP.
conducted
the
NISTEP.
applications conducted by the NISTEP.

◆ Scientometrics

Scientometrics
Aiming to◆
gain
a comprehensive and quantitative understanding on sciences and technology trends, NISTEP
conducts analyses on R&D trends and the S&T capability of Japan and overseas, by focusing of outputs of◆ Aiming to gain a comprehensive and quantitative
research such as scientiﬁc papers and patent applications. The analyses include country-level time-series analysis
understanding on sciences and technology trends,
of scientiﬁc strengths and weaknesses, and analysis of institution features. In addition, we make a biennial “Science
NISTEP conducts analyses on R&D trends and theMap” to identify
analyzethe characteristics
offocusing
hot researchareas in science.
S&Tandcapabilityof Japanand overseas, byofAiming to gain a comprehensiveandquantitative◆ Scientometrics◆of researchsuch as scientiﬁc papers andunderstanding on sciences andoutputs
technology
trends,patent applications. The analyses include countryNISTEP conducts analyses
R&D
How toonReadthetrends
Scienceand
Mapthelevel time-series analysis of scientiﬁc strengths andWhitecircles
indicateof
S&T capability of Japanand overseas,
by focusingof of institution
weaknesses,
andpositions
analysisfeatures. In
researchareas.
The
core-paper
density
is Map” to identify
addition,wemakeabiennial“Science
outputs of research such as scientiﬁc papers anddepicted as andcolor
aroundthe circles; Redanalyzethe characteristics
of hot research areas
patent applications. The analyses include countryscience.density, while blue
color showinhigher

level time-series analysis
scientiﬁcstrengths
colorofsignify
lower
density.andThis map
weaknesses, and analysis
institution
features.
In Mapshowsofthe
close
relationshipbetweenHow
to Readthe Science
clinical“Science
research
and
basic
life
science,
addition, we make a biennial
Map”
toidentify
White circles indicate positionsof research areas.
andexplains
thepositionofnano- as color aroundThe
core-paper
densityisand analyze the characteristics of hot research areasdepictedin science.

science between
chemistryandphysics.
the circles;
Red colorshowhigher density, while(Source: Science
Report No.
blue Map
color2018,signifyNISTEP
lower density.
This map shows the
187 (2020)) close relationship between clinical research andbasic life science, and explains the position of nanoscience between chemistry and physics.
Science
Map 2018, NISTEP Report No. 187
White circles indicate positions of(Source:
researchareas.
(2020))How to Read the Science Map

The core-paper density is depicted as color aroundthe circles; Red color show higher density, whileblue color signify lower density. This map shows theclose relationship between clinical research andbasic life science, and explains the position of nanoscience between chemistry and physics.
(Source: Science Map 2018, NISTEP Report No. 187(2020))

7

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICYNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICYbenchmarking◆ Scientific paper◆Benchmarking
scientific research and Japanese unive
Benchmarking scientific research and Japanese universities

Research Activities

Research Activities◆ Scientific paper benchmarking

Focusing on scientiﬁc papers, NISTEP has been benchmarking scientiﬁc research

Focusing on scientiﬁc papers, NISTEP has been benchmarking scientiﬁc research in Japan and major countries,
and analyzing the scientiﬁc paper production structure at the sector/organization level biannually since 2008. In
addition, through benchmarking of individual universities in Japan, NISTEP identified each university's strengths
and analyzed the status of paper production of the university to the internal organization level.

analyzing the scientiﬁc paper production structure at the sector/organization level

through benchmarking of individual universities in Japan, NISTEP identified each un
status of paper production of the university to the internal organization level.

The proportion of top 10% highly-cited publications vs. the number of publication in the Japanese, UK,
and German universities (2013-2017)

The proportion of top 10% publica
the Japanese, UK, and German u

The analysis was made by using
authors in order to exclude the inf
international joint research.
(Source: Benchmarking Research
the United Kingdom and Germany(2020))

The analysis was made by using publications with 100 or fewer authors in order to exclude theinfluence of publications of large-scale international joint research.
(Source: Benchmarking Research Capability of Universities in Japan, the United Kingdom andGermany 2019, Research Material-288 (2020))◆Input/output structure of the Japanese university syste

Universities play a main role in producing scientiﬁc knowledge in Japan. To contribu

is necessary to understand the state of scientific research at universities from boththerefore consider Japanese universities as a system and analyze the system’s iexpenditure and number of researchers as the inputs, and number of publications as

Structure of scientiﬁc paper production by ﬁeld of science and university group in

categorized into 4 university groups, in accordance with share of scientiﬁc papers (nNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

8

ies

The analysis was made by using publications with 100 or fewer
authors in order to exclude the influence of publications of large-scaleinternational joint research.
(Source: Benchmarking Research Capability of Universities in Japan,
the United Kingdom and Germany 2019, Research Material-288(2020))

Research Activities

Input/output structure of the Japanese university system◆Input/output
structureof the scientiﬁcJapanese
university
systemUniversities play a mainrole in producing
knowledge
in Japan. To
contribute to the formulation of S&T

policy, it is necessary to understand the state of scientific research at universities from both input and output
Universities
play aWemainrole in producing
scientiﬁc knowledge
To contributeto theof S&T policy, it
perspectives.
therefore
consider Japanese
universitiesinasJapan.
a systemand analyze
theformulation
system’s input/output
is necessary
tounderstand
the
state
of
scientificresearch
atuniversities
from
both
input
and
outputperspectives.
structure, treating R&D expenditure and number of researchers as the inputs, and number of publications as the We
output.consider Japanese universities as a system and analyze the system’s input/output structure, treating R&D
therefore

expenditure and number of researchers as the inputs, and number of publications as the output.
Structure of scientiﬁc paper production by ﬁeld of science and university group

Structure of scientiﬁcpaper production by ﬁeld of science and university group in Japan: Japanese universities are
in Japan: Japanese universities are categorized into 4 university groups, incategorized into 4 university groups,
in accordanceshare of papers
scientiﬁcpapersscience).
(natural science).
accordancewith sharewithof scientiﬁc(natural
Balance of FTE researchers by university group,by occupation

Scientific publications by sector and university group(Source: Detailed analysis of full-time equivalent R&D(Source: “Output Structure of the University System in Japan: In-depth(Source:of“Output
Structureof theSystemin Japan:Analysisthe ScientificPapersby University
the University
Group,”
Research
Material-271(2018)) of the Scientific Papers by the University
In-depth Analysis(Source:
Detailedof full-time
equivalent
R&D
expenditure
and analysis
the numberof researchersin Japanese
universities, Research(2020))
expenditureand theMaterial-297
number of
researchers inJapanese universities, Research Material-297 (2020))

7

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

9NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICYGroup,” NISTEP RESEARCH MATERIAL No.271 (2018)

S&T Foresight and Trend Analysis
S&T foresight activities that analyzes current trends and looks towards the future of society by constantly measuring andanalyzing new developments in S&T are indispensable tools for contributing to STI policy making. To envision the future

S&T Foresight
and
Trend
Analysisdevelop newforesight
methods andinformation gathering and analysis techniques that take advantage of ICT.
S&T Foresight and Trend Analysis

S&T foresight activities that analyzes current trends and looks towards the future of society by constantly
measuring and analyzing new developments in S&T are indispensable tools for contributing to STI policy making.
S&T foresightactivities
that analyzes
current along
trends andlooks
towards the
futureengagedof society by
andTo envision the future
S&T, its
products,
and society,withconstantly
being
in constantly
foresightmeasuring
activities,
analyzingnewdevelopments
in
S&T
are
indispensable
tools
for
contributing
toSTI
policymaking.
ToenvisionthefutureNISTEP is also conducting to develop new foresight methods and information gathering and analysis techniques
S&T activities,
Foresight
Framework
S&T, itsJapanproducts,has
and society,along with
NISTEP2019:is also conducting
tocontinued
to constantly being engaged in foresightthat take advantage
of ICT.
develop new foresight methods and information gathering and analysis techniques that take advantage of ICT.
conduct large scale S&T◆ Developing and enhancing S&T foresightforesight surveys at five-andintervals
enhancing
S&T foresight◆ Developingyear
since 1971

◆ Developing and enhancing S&T foresightResearch
Activities
Research
Activities

S&T, its products, and society, along with constantly being engaged in foresight activities, NISTEP is also conducting toJapan has continued to
conductin orderto gain insight into
S&T Foresight 2019: Framework
large scale S&T foresight surveys
S&T Foresight 2019: Frameworkand the tofuture that it
Japan S&T
has continued
at five-year intervals since 1971 in
conductwill
large
scale about.
S&T
bring
NISTEP
order to gain insight into S&T andforesight surveys at fivehas been
the organization
the future that ityear
will intervals
bring
about.
since 1971
thatisprimarily
NISTEP has beenintheorganizationorder
to gain insight into
responsible
for
these
that is primarilyS&T
responsible
forthat it
and the future
will
bring
about.
NISTEP
these surveys since thesurveys
fifth studysince the fifth
has been the organizationin 1992.
study in 1992.
N I S T E P ’ s S & Tthatf o r e sisi g h t primarily
isresponsible for thesecharacterized by a long-term
NISTEP’s
surveys since the S&T
fifth foresight is characterized by a long-term horizon of the next 30 years, and by a wide range of discussions
horizon of the next 30 years, andstudy inwith
1992.stakeholders from different ﬁelds, such as experts from S&T and those from the demand side and from social
by a wide range of discussions
sciences and humanities. By combining a number of techniques to envision the future of society, NISTEP attempts towith stakeholders
from different
NISTEP’s
S&T foresight is characterized by a long-term horizon of the next 30 years, and by a wide range of discussions
identify
theS&T
thatﬁelds,
will help
realize thisfutureand social
the fromsocialsystems
andandpoliciesthat will be needed. We also use
with stakeholders
fromdifferentsuch
as expertssidefrom andS&T from
and thosethe demand
from social
ﬁelds, such as experts
from S&T
and
those
from
the demandsciencesand side
humanities.
By
case
studiestodevelopnew
techniques
andtoperform
in-depth
analysis.
sciencesandhumanities.
By
combininganumberoftechniques
toenvisionthefutureofsociety,
NISTEP
attempts
combining a number of techniques to envision the future of society, NISTEP attempts to identify the S&T thatto
identify
the S&T
help realize
this andfuturepolicies
and the social
systemsand policies
thatalso
will beWe also tousewill help realize thisfutureandthatthewillsocial
systemsthat will
be needed.
We
useneeded.
case studies
case studies
to develop newtechniques
and to perform
in-depth
analysis.
Furthermore,
NISTEP
conducts
horizonscanningthatisacontinuous
andsystematic
process to identify emerging
develop new techniques and to perform in-depth analysis.
Furthermore, NISTEP
conducts
scanningthat ofis athecontinuous
systematic
identify emerging
trends inhorizon
new S&T
and signs
resulting andsocialchanges.process
We usetoquantitativeand qualitative approaches to explore
Furthermore, NISTEP conducts horizon scanning that is a continuous and systematic process to identify emerging
trends in new S&T
andinandsigns
of andthesigns
resultingsocial changes.
Weand
use
quantitative
andqualitative
approaches
tonewmovements
in scienceandsociety,andweprovideinformation,in the form of research
trendsnewanalyze
S&Tof
the resulting
socialchanges.
Wetechnology
usequantitative
andqualitative
approaches
to explore
explore and analyze
newmovements
in science
technology
weallows
providein
and analyze
new andmovementsinscienceand
andon
technology
andandsociety,
and weandprovideinformation,in the formof research
reportsothermaterials,
these “signs
ofsociety,change”
thatforinformation,
some
level
of theuncertainty.
and
other
materials,
on thesechange”ofthat
allows forsomelevel ofform of research reports
reportsandothermaterials,
on“signs
theseof“signs
change”
thatallowsforuncertainty.
some level of uncertainty.
Furthermore, we are taking a global lead in this area by strengthening the international network for foresight
Furthermore,
weaaretakinggloballeadin this areaby strengthening
theforesightinternational
Furthermore,
we are taking
globalinathisarea bystrengthening
the international
network for
activities network for foresight activities
activities by taking
steps suchas participating
inleadinternational
projects
and conducting
international
workshops.
bystepstakingsuch asinparticipating
in international
projects
and conductingby takingsuchsteps
as participatinginternational projects
and conducting
international
workshops. international workshops.

(Source: S&T Foresight 2019: Society in 2040
through the Development (Source:of S&T -Conceptual
S&T Foresight 2019: Society in 2040
scenarios, Research Material-291 (2020))

through the Development of S&T -Conceptual
scenarios, Research Material-291 (2020))◆ Expert network supporting foresight activities
To aid in these foresight activities, NISTEP maintains a diverse network of some 2,000 experts, and leverages thisexpert2019:
network
to collectthethroughviews ofthe
numerous
experts
questionnaires.
The Research
results ofMaterial-291
these surveys
are used(Source: S&T ForesightSocietyin 2040Developmentof throughS&T -Conceptual
scenarios,(2020))
not only in foresight activities, but also in creating fundamental data and materials in support of STI policy, such as
designing the areas for research grants.

◆ Expert network supporting foresight activities

activities◆ Expert network
To aid supportingin these foresight foresightactivities, NISTEP
maintains a diverse network of some 2,000 experts, and leverages thisexpertnetwork
to collectthe views
of numerous
throughquestionnaires.
Thethisresults of these surveys are used
To aid in these foresightactivities,
NISTEP
maintains
a diverse
network ofexperts
some 2,000
experts,
and leverages
expert network to collectviews
of numerous
expertsbut
through
The resultsof thesesurveys arenottheonly
in foresightactivities,
also inquestionnaires.
creating fundamental
data
and materials
in support of STI policy, such as
used not only in foresightactivities,
alsoforin researchcreating fundamental
data and materials in support of STI policy,
designingthebutareas
grants.
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
8such as designing the areas for research grants.

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY10

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE A

The digital transformation (DX), starting with Japan’s Society 5.0 initiative, is bringing about major change in not
The digital transformation(DX),instartingwith Japan’sand
Society
5.0 initiative,is bringing
about major
in not only
only the information
arena, but also
S&T, academia,
society.
Examplesof this include
the change
advancementofthe information arena, but also in S&T, academia, and society. Examples of this include the advancement of open data
open data throughout society, open science in the field of scientific research, and EBPM in public administration.
throughout society, open science in the field of scientific research, and EBPM in public administration. It is essential to
It is essential to understand the direction of this change—and in some cases indicate what the future should lookunderstand the direction of this change—and in some cases indicate what the future should look like—and then makelike—and then make adjustments to NISTEP's own research to address these developments. Therefore, along withadjustments to NISTEP's own research to address these developments. Therefore, along with identifying new trends in
identifying new trends in research—such as open science—and pursuing research that aids in the formulation ofresearch—such as open science—and pursuing research that aids in the formulation of policy that address these shifts,
policy thatNISTEP
address
NISTEP
also works
to develop
information
techniquesand systems
inalsotheseworksshifts,
to develop
information
analyticaltechniquesand systemsanalyticalin the policy
area that incorporate
artificial
the policyintelligencearea that incorporate
artificial
intelligence(AI)incollaboration
withoutsideresearch
institutes.
(AI) in collaboration with outside research institutes.

◆ Identifying
and addressing
trends,includingopen
and addressing
newnew
trends,includingopenscience◆ Identifying
science

It is widely thought that open
science will transform scientificresearch and influence new
relationships between S&T andsociety, and NISTEP is carrying out
research on the topic of sharing
research findings and data.
For example, in connection withpreprints—manuscripts madeavailable prior to peer review—
NISTEP has surveyed researchersin Japan to understand how they
use this material and we have alsocollected and analyzed data fromwell-known preprint servers to carryout fact-finding on an international
level in certain areas

Data disclosure by field of study

Research Activities

Research Activities

Data-oriented
Researchon on
Promoting
S&T
Data-oriented
Research
Promoting
S&TandandAcademia
Academia

Data disclosure by field of study

Biochemistry
Agricultural science
Chemistry
Mathematics
Earth science
Medicine
Psychology
Computer science
Physics/astronomy
Humanities/social sciences
Engineering(Source: A Survey on Open Research Data and Open Access 2018, ResearchMaterials-268, 289 (2020))(Source: Survey on Utilization and Perception ofPreprints, Research Material 301 (2021))(Source: Survey on Utilization and Perception of Preprints, Research Material-301 (2021))

911NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICYNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

of STI, there are alreadyvariousofsourcesof areopen
In the context
STI, there
alreadyvarioussourcesofopen
w types of data are starting to be offered. For
data, and new types of data are

he input side, data related to competitive funding
starting to be offered. For example,
s-in-Aid for Scientificpublicly
onResearch
the input(Kakenhi),side, data isrelatedhe output side, newof data,funding
such assuch
preprints
totypescompetitiveas

Research Activities

Grants-in-Aid
for Scientific
Research
official publication)
are beginningto make
their(Kakenhi), is publicly disclosed.
It is necessary to carry out new
research
toidentify◆ Developing
new analytical techniques andOn the output
side, new types
ew types of data inofthe
lattercategory,anditis alsosystemsincorporatingAI
data, such as preprints (drafts
In theof
context
of STI, there
are alreadyvarious sources of openross-tabulate the various
publisheddata
tobefore types
officialpublication)
arebeginningto maketheir presence
ed and multifaceted
analysis.
In responseto theexample, on the input side, data related to competitive funding
felt. It is necessary to carry out
as Grants-in-Aid
for Scientific Research (Kakenhi), is publicly
and EBPM, in addition to suchprovidingconventional
new research
to identify
trendsdisclosed.
On the output
side, innew types of data, such as preprints
ults in the form theof reports
publishedbypublication)
policy are beginning to make their
new types
data official
in thelatter(draftsofbefore

data, and new types of data are starting to be offered. For

Research Activities

oping new analytical techniques andms incorporating
AI new analytical techniques and systems incorporating AI◆ Developing

presence
It is necessary
to carry out new research to identify
category, forand
it isfelt.
also
necessaryutes, it is also important,example,to provide
trends in the new types of data in the latter category, and it is also
tocross-tabulatethevarious
types
chanisms” that facilitate thenecessary
analysisof data thefromto cross-tabulate
various types of published data toof publisheddata to andcarry
out analysis. In response to thecarry out unified
multifaceted
own perspectives. To accomplish
this, alongwithunified andtrends
multifaceted
analysis.
in DX and EBPM,
in addition to providing conventional

nologies such as natural
languageprocessing
andanalyticalresultsin theof reports published by policy
In responseto thetrendsin formDX
research
institutes,
it
is
also
for example, to provide
EBPM,various
in addition
to providing
ing to collect and andanalyzetypes
of dataimportant,in“analytical mechanisms” that facilitate the analysis of data fromconventional
analyticalresultsrch methods for constantly
identifying
newtrends inTo accomplish this, along with
policymakers’ own
perspectives.
in the form of reports published

AI technologies
such asriety of perspectives, we areusingalso
developing,
onnaturala language processing andby policy research
institutes,
is analyze various types of data inmachine learning
to collectitand
analysis/visualization
platform
ICT
sofortothatorder tousing
researchmethods
constantly identifying new trends inalso important,for example,
S&T
from
a
varietyofperspectives,“analyticalmechanisms”
search results can provide
be provided
as a systemservice. we are also developing, on a

trial basis, an analysis/visualization platform using ICT so thatthat facilitate the analysis of data from policymakers’ own perspectives. To accomplish this, along with using AI
some of the research results can be provided as a system service.
technologies such as natural language processing and machine learning to collect and analyze various types ofdata in order to research methods for constantly identifying new trends in S&T from a variety of perspectives,
we are also developing, on a trial basis, an analysis/visualization platform using ICT so that some of the research
results can be provided as a system service.

How to readchart
Howthisto readthis chart
this chart
represents a
Each pointEachin point
thisinchart
represents
preprint about the COVID-19, andcontent areplaceda preprint preprints
about withthesimilar
COVID-19,andthis chart
closer together. The preprints have been
preprintswithsimilarcontentaren this chart representsadivided into 16 groups based on theirproximity
and color-coded.
Each grouput the COVID-19, andplaced closer
together.
The preprints
has been assigned a name, such as
h similar content arehave
placedbeen“Infection
dividedinto
16 ongroups
model,”
basedtheoccurring words
each
er. The preprints have
been
based
on frequently
their proximityand forcolorgroup.
16 groups based on coded.
their Eachgroup
beentoassigned
This
makes hasit possible
envision themain topics of research and theird color-coded. Eachagroupname, suchas“Infection
model,”
semantic proximity. Furthermore, crosssigned a name, suchbased
as on tabulating
this data withthe preprint
the frequently
occurringdates and the countries and regions ofodel,” based on the words for eachgroup.
the authors’ institutions makes it possible
curring words for eachto perceive
researchto
trendsfrom various
This makes
it possible
envisionangles.
the main topics
research
their(Source:of
A Trialof early anddetectionsystemt possible to envision
theforresearch trends
through the preprints
semantic
proximity.
Furthermore,
dataof research and theircross-tabulating
this
data
with
the /
─ ResearchstatusaroundCOVID-19
ximity. Furthermore,preprintcross- dates
SARS-CoV-2 , Discussion Paper 186
andthecountries
and(2020))
s data with the preprint
regions of the authors’ institutions
e countries and regions ofmakes it possible to perceive research
nstitutions makes it possible
trends from various angles.

(Source: A Trial of early detection system for research trends throughthe(Source:
preprints
data of
Researchstatusaround/ SARS-CoV-2,
─earlyA Trialdetectionsystemfor COVID-19
research trends
through the
preprints
data ─ Research status around COVID-19 /DiscussionPaper
186 (2020))
SARS-CoV-2, Discussion Paper 186 (2020))

esearch trends from various(Source: A Trial of early detection system forresearch trends through the preprints data
rial of early detection
Research status around COVID-19 / SARS─ systemtrends through the preprints
CoV-2 , Discussion Paper 186 (2020))

status around COVID-19 /2 , Discussion Paper 186(Source: A Trial of early detection system for research trends
through the preprints data ─ Research status around COVID-19 /SARS-CoV-2, Discussion Paper 186 (2020))
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICYNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

1012

Research Activities

Science of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy

Research Activities

The public has growing expectations for S&T as a means of addressing the various changes in economy andsociety and resolving today’s most pressing social issues. This kind of policy formation requires a highly rational
and transparent process based on objective evidence. NISTEP is committed to developing data infrastructure tocontribute to Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policy.
The United States, Europe, and others are conducting research to scientiﬁcally analyze the mechanisms of STI
and taking action to build data infrastructure based on their policymaking. For its part, Japan currently advocates“Science of science, technology and innovation policy” as a new ﬁeld providing a foundation for transition fromconventional S&T policy to STI policy that encompasses other related policies.
Based on this background, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) launched
The public has growing expectations for S&T as a means of addressing the various changes in economy and society
the “Science for RE-designing Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (SciREX)” program in FY 2011 to achieve
and resolving today’s most pressing social issues. This kind of policy formation requires a highly rational and transparent“evidence-based
formulation”
thatwill iscreate
effective
policies
addressing
pertinent
issues based onprocesspolicy
based onobjective evidence.
NISTEP
committed
to developing
data infrastructure
to contributeto Science,and Innovation
policy. and social circumstances from multifaceted perspectives.
analysis and Technology,
full understandingof (STI)
economic
United ofStates,Europe, andothersare conductingof
researchscientiﬁcallyanalyze the formechanisms
of STIandNISTEP takesThechargepromotingthedevelopmentusefulto data
infrastructure
researchor analysis
in thetaking action to build data infrastructure based on their policymaking. For its part, Japan currently advocates “Science ofarea of Science, Technology, and Innovation policy formulation.

Science of Science, Technology and Innovation
Policyscience, technology and innovation policy” as a new ﬁeld providing a foundation for transition from conventional S&T
policy to STI policy that encompasses other related policies.
Based on this background, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) launched the“Science for RE-designing Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (SciREX)” program in FY 2011 to achieve

Situation Regarding Science and Technology“evidence-based policy formulation” that will create effective policies addressing pertinent issues based on analysis andfull understanding of economic and social circumstances from multifaceted perspectives.
NISTEP takes charge of promoting the development of useful data infrastructure for research or analysis in the area of
Science, Technology, and Innovation policy formulation.

The NISTEP expert survey on Japanese S&T and innovation system (NISTEP TEITEN
survey) aims to track the status of the system by continuously collecting responses
to a fixed questionnaire distributed annually to a fixed group of respondents. The
respondents consist of about 2,800 Japanese experts and researchers in universities,
The NISTEP expert survey on Japanese S&T and innovation system (NISTEP TEITEN survey) aims to track the status
public research
institutions, and private firms. The survey has several features:of the system by continuously collecting responses to a fixed questionnaire distributed annually to a fixed group of
it asks the respondents
comparethe ofstatuses
betweenthe targeted
yearinand
respondents. Theto
respondents
consistabout 2,800
Japanese experts
and researchers
universities, public research
the previousinstitutions,
one by andshowingthem
answers
in the itsurvey
it the statuses between
private firms.
The their
survey has
several features:asks the previous
respondents year;
to compare
the targeted
yearareand usually
the previous
one by showing
them their answers
in the R&D
survey statistics,
previous year; it collects informationcollects informationthatdifficult
to be measured
throughthat are usually difficult to be measured through R&D statistics, including descriptive answers by the respondents; andincluding descriptive answers by the respondents; and its questionnaire is linked toits questionnaire is linked to the issues mentioned in the Japanese fifth S&T basic plan.
the issues mentioned in the Japanese fifth S&T basic plan.

Situation Regarding Science and Technology

NISTEP TEITEN Survey: respondent groups and survey questions
NISTEP TEITEN Survey: respondent groups and survey questions(Source: Analytical
Reportfor NISTEP
ExpertExpert
Survey on
Japaneseand Innovation
System2020 (NISTEPTEITEN(Source:
Analytical
Reportfor NISTEPSurveyon S&T
Japanese
S&T andInnovation
System2020
survey 2020), NISTEP Report No. 189 (2020))(NISTEP TEITEN survey 2020), NISTEP Report No. 189 (2020))

1113

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICYNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICYNISTEP also provides the following information to the public◆ NISTEP Newsletter

The NISTEP Newsletter (Japanese only), launched in February 2011, introduces our activities at any time by email.

◆ STI Horizon

NISTEP’s STI Horizon journal, published quarterly, delivers information that contributes to STI policy. The
published interviews introduce readers to highly insightful expert views (special interviews) as well as the findingsof younger researchers of note (Nice Step researcher interviews). The Horizon and Report sections of the journal
present a broad range of forward-looking research.
STI Horizon： https://www.nistep.go.jp/stih/

Other Activities

Information on research results◆ Review Seminar

Every year, NISTEP presents its research outputs to the public, including universities, enterprises, and government
agencies. The goal of the review seminar is to interest more people in NISTEP’s research activities.

NISTEP Selection (Nice Step Researchers)

Since 2005, NISTEP has been selecting researchers who made outstanding contributions to S&T as the “NISTEP
Selection” (Nice Step Researchers).
NISTEP also organizes symposia to present their cutting-edge research achievements and initiatives that advancescience and technology.

2020 NISTEP researchers meet the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Mr. HAGIUDA Koichi

Collaboration and cooperation with other institutes

NISTEP concludes agreements with policy research institutes and universities in Japan and overseas to conduct
joint research and personnel exchanges, and to invite leading researchers for symposia.
In addition, NISTEP promotes international collaboration by participating in Trilateral Science and Technology
Policy Seminar that government-affiliated think tanks in Japan, China and South Korea present and discuss theirresearch activities.
【Collaboration partners】○National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS)○Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and Riken○Overseas policy research institutes(USA, EU, Germany, UK, France, China, South Korea, Russia, Finland, Egypt and Turkey)

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

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