The Business Development Section at OIST pro-actively builds strong networks with companies in Japan and around the world. We work closely with OIST researchers and companies to enable innovative research partnerships and negotiates sponsored and collaborative contracts with industry.
Collaborative Research / Sponsored Research
Collaborative Research
Structure: OIST researchers and external partners (companies, public institutes, etc.) work together on a defined research project.
Both parties contribute: OIST provides research expertise and facilities; the partner may contribute funding, materials,equipment, and/or personnel.
Shared results: Intellectual property (IP) and publications are typically co-owned based on contributions.
Framework agreement or CRA: Projects are formalized under a Collaborative Research Agreement (CRA) outlining scope, IP, and cost-sharing.
Sponsored Research
Structure: Research is funded entirely by the company, and OIST conducts it independently according to agreed deliverables.
Sponsor-funded: All research costs (personnel, materials, overhead) are covered by the sponsor.
IP ownership: Typically belongs to OIST, with the sponsor granted a first option to negotiate exclusive licenses.
OIST Innovation Network (INO)
OIST welcomes industry partners to join the OIST Innovation Network (INO) — a membership program designed to connect companies with OIST’s researchers, students, and startups. Members gain opportunities to explore collaborations, attend networking events, and participate in joint innovation initiatives.
Companies are invited to establish a Joint Laboratory within OIST’s Incubator facility, creating a dedicated space for collaboration between company researchers and OIST scientists. These labs serve as a hub for co-innovation, enabling long-term research partnerships and access to OIST’s cutting-edge facilities.
Through the Visiting Researchers Program, company researchers are hosted within OIST Research Units to experience OIST’s dynamic, international research environment. The program typically ranges from three months or longer, fostering close interaction and exchange of ideas with OIST researchers.
External Grants and Large-Scale Programs
OIST actively collaborates with industry partners to apply for and operate external research programs, such as COI-NEXT, NEDO, and other national or international funding schemes. These joint efforts help accelerate technology development and societal impact through shared innovation.
