Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology OIST

OIST is a pioneering graduate university. We conduct research that bridges disciplines to explore new frontiers of scientific knowledge. We educate a new generation of scientific leaders. We are a catalyst for an innovation hub in Okinawa.

Research and Faculty

OIST has no academic departments. Researchers from more than 50 countries collaborate across and combine scientific disciplines to pioneer new approaches to discovery and problem-solving.

Research at OIST

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Faculty and Research Units

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Institutional News

Research administrators, the professionals who support research in Japan, gathered in Okinawa from all over the country

The 10th RMAN-J Annual Conference was held at OIST.

Institutional News

Creating synergy across generations at the OIST-Keio summer camp

The OIST-Keio International Research Summer Camp makes a lasting impact on both students and faculty.

Header_Mice tails help research into neurodegenerative diseases

Research Update

Mice tails whip up new insights into balance and neurodegenerative disease research

New study using a novel experimental setup has shown how healthy mice flick their tails to maintain balance.

Science+Art: Creatively Communicating Research

Institutional News

New possibilities for science and art: From the perspective of science communication

OIST hosted a talk event on science and art (SciArt) at the United Nations University.

12 new weevil species header image 20241030

Research Update

12 new Oriental weevil species discovered using advanced imaging tools

Two of these new species occur in Japan, including one species found in Yanbaru National Park, Okinawa.

Research Events

19 - 29 Nov 2024

Conference

Autumn School & Conference. New developments in representation theory of algebras: algebraic, combinatorial and geometric aspects

22 Nov 2024

Workshop

[Workshop] Okinawa Marine Science Workshop

22 Nov 2024

Seminar

[Seminar] "Publishing in Wiley Journals" by Dr. Geraldine Echue

25 Nov 2024

Research

[Seminar] "Cancer Diagnostics and Therapy with DNA Aptamer Nanotechnology" by Dr. Maxim Berezovski

27 Nov 2024

Symposium

OIST - NanoLSI Joint Symposium "Exploring Uncharted Nanoscale Frontiers in Life Sciences"

27 Nov 2024

Symposium

OIST-JAIST Joint Symposium: "Collaborative Innovation for Sustainable Future through Advanced Materials Science"

Study at OIST

Apply for our 5-year PhD program in Science. We also offer short-term Research Internships. Both programs are competitive, cross-disciplinary, fully funded, and taught entirely in English by world-class international faculty.

Science Without Boundaries

A university with no departments, OIST has no artificial barriers between people working in different fields, thus encouraging innovation. With a state-of-the-art research environment, OIST attracts outstanding students and faculty around the world.

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PhD and Research Internship Program

OIST offers an individualized, cross-disciplinary PhD program that funds students up to 5 years. The Research Internship program offers financial and travel support for 2 to 6 months of experience working in an OIST research lab under OIST faculty.

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Student Life

OIST offers a first-class postgraduate experience – both inside and outside the classroom. A wide range of educational, recreational, social, and cultural activities provide many opportunities to explore your passions and master something new.

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Driving Innovation Toward Impact

OIST connects world-leading research and global business to co-create solutions to society’s most pressing challenges – attracting talent to Okinawa’s emerging innovation ecosystem.

Corporate partnerships and collaborations
Technology development and licensing
Entrepreneurship and startups

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Public Events

29 Nov 2024 - 09 Jan 2025

Culture

Science + Art Exhibit: "Coral Colors by Sputniko!"

07 Dec 2024

Culture

Digital Canvas: The Nexus of Science, Art, and Technology

11 Dec 2024

Culture

4th Studium Generale by Prof. Till Weber (The University of the Ryukyus)

01 Feb 2025

Outreach

OIST Science Festival 2025

15 - 22 Mar 2025

Prospective Students

Science Challenge 2025

Outreach

OIST was established in and for Okinawa. Take advantage of local education, science, and culture programs or tour the campus.

Science outreach and cultural exchange activities for audiences in

elementary school
junior high school
high school
college
the general public

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SDGs

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) address some of the most pressing global challenges we face today. 

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Our Contribution to Okinawa

OIST is leading educational initiatives, providing employment opportunities, building and sustaining strong partnerships, and driving research and innovation to benefit Okinawa and Japan.

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