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Tohoku University has launched the Center for Integrated Japanese Studies in an ambitious effort to transform Japanese studies globally, positioning itself as the world's premier hub for scholarship in this field.

Professor Christopher Craig, the Center's chief architect and its head of research and international development, explains that the vision is built on three forms of integration that go beyond traditional approaches.

A New Vision Through Integration

The Center's first goal is to bridge scholarship traditions from within and outside Japan. "These traditions have intersected before, but we're bringing them together more comprehensively than ever," says Craig.

The second integration combines humanities methodologies with scientific approaches, particularly through digital technologies. The third focuses on cross-disciplinary collaboration spanning humanities, social sciences and natural sciences.

Craig emphasizes that the Center approaches Japanese history, literature and culture as components of broader global contexts. "Japanese history is global history as experienced in Japan. No place exists in isolation - everywhere has always been connected through a shared world history."

This perspective aligns with how Japanese studies is typically structured internationally, where it's often embedded within broader disciplinary departments rather than standing alone.

Building a Global Team

At the heart of the Center's strategy is a plan to recruit 16 -18 international faculty members over five years. "We offer secure tenure-track positions with advancement opportunities to associate and full professor roles," Craig explains. "Our supportive environment is fully committed to diversity and gender balance."

With four members already on board, the Center continues its recruitment efforts. "We seek candidates with creative, individualistic research approaches and flexible thinking," says Craig. "We want scholars comfortable crossing disciplinary and geographic boundaries who can contextualize their research broadly, making it relevant to colleagues worldwide."

Growing Recognition and Collaboration

Despite its recent establishment, the Center has already garnered attention from prestigious institutions. The Japan Foundation has provided support and designated the Center to host two annual research fellow positions. Notably, the Foundation's annual Research Fellows conference, traditionally held in Tokyo or Kyoto, will take place in Sendai this year.

The Center has also joined a digital humanities consortium as a founding member and formed connections with the International Research Center for Japanese Studies (Nichibunken). Its international partnerships with universities in Rome; Athens, Georgia; and Ghent include exchange programs and joint research initiatives.

Craig articulates the Center's ultimate goal: "We're building what will become the world's most exciting and important Japanese studies institution. When people consider the future directions of Japanese studies and the humanities, Tohoku University will be the name that automatically comes to mind globally."