Publication of 'Okayama University J-PEAKS MONTHLY DIGEST' Vol. 23 - Monthly updates on Okayama University's social transformation initiatives related to the 'J-PEAKS' project!

Okayama University (Headquarters: Kita-ku, Okayama City; President: Tomohiro Nasu) was selected for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) 'Program for Promoting the Enhancement of Research Universities (J-PEAKS)' (implemented by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science) on December 22, 2023. This is a large-scale university support project (approximately 5.5 billion yen per project over 5 years) aimed at forming a group of research universities that will lead the development of Japan's overall research capabilities. In pursuit of its 'Okayama University Long-term Vision 2050,' which aims to 'co-create the future of the region and the globe, and contribute to global innovation,' the university is actively promoting strategies for research enhancement and innovation creation in collaboration with various stakeholders. We have published the 23rd issue of the 'Okayama University J-PEAKS MONTHLY DIGEST' to provide timely updates on these activities. This issue continues to cover topics deeply related to J-PEAKS. The lead feature introduces the Okayama University J-PEAKS Symposium held in late January. Additionally, the 'Recommended Research Equipment' section features the 'GeoMx (Digital Spatial Profiler).' Through J-PEAKS, Okayama University is not merely building research and development hubs but is implementing organizational and institutional reforms that transcend conventional wisdom to continue its journey as a core regional university and a representative research university in Japan. These reforms differ from traditional approaches that were limited to specific departments or narrow university frameworks. We publish this digest to share best practices and know-how regarding common challenges among selected universities. We look forward to your continued interest in our challenge to build a 'mountain range of research universities (PEAKS)' that the world can be proud of. This information was released on June 1, 2026.