1. Establishment of JISTEC

JISTEC was established as a corporation in 1990. With authorization from the Cabinet Office, it was transformed into a public interest group corporation in 2013.

2. Location of offices

The headquarter of JISTEC is located in Akihabara, Tokyo, and there is a satellite office in Tsukuba city, Ibaraki Prefecture.

3. Philosophy behind JISTEC’s activities

The philosophy of JISTEC’s activities is to support efforts for all international cooperation among industry, universities, public institutions, and so forth, in fields dedicated to the development of science and technology. Through these activities, JISTEC intends to contribute to the development of Japan and the world. Attainment of sustainable development goals (SDGs) is a common goal for us all.

4. Different types of JISTEC activities

(1) JISTEC is commissioned by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) to manage housing facilities in Tsukuba for international researchers (Ninomiya House & Takezono House).

(2) JISTEC partly undertakes implementation of JST’s “Sakura Science Plan,” a short-term exchange program which invites young people from Asia and other parts of the world. JISTEC is also commissioned to manage the running of “Sakura Science Club,” an alumni association of people who participated in the exchange program.

(3) JISTEC provides foreign researchers and their families with various daily life services including support for official registrations (City Hall, driver’s license, etc.), opening a bank account, going to the hospital and children’s daycare/ school procedures.

(4) JISTEC regularly co-hosts series of lectures on science and technology related topics with JST and S&TDC (Science and Technology Diplomatic Circle) under the Culture, Science and Technology (CST) International Salon.

5. Members of JISTEC

As a public interest corporation group, JISTEC consists of two types of members: regular members and supporting members. Both corporations and individuals are eligible for membership.

6. Collaboration with the diplomatic mission in Japan

JISTEC has a close relationship with the “Science and Technology Diplomatic Circle (S&TDC)” which is a circle of diplomatic members in Japan specializing in the field of science, technology and innovation.

(1) JISTEC plans and carries out science and technology one-day bus tours for S&TDC members to visit research institutions and innovative companies around Tokyo.

(2) JISTEC plays a role in bridging its members and other stakeholders with S&TDC.