Professional Career Development

OIST is committed to the development of individual student’s knowledge and skills, not only in research, but also for career development and leadership in the scientific research and education environment of the future. Professional and Career Development (PCD) course is a credited course which continues throughout each year of the degree, covering basic principles of research conduct and ethics, science communication, and aspects of science in society.

Programs

Year 1 is designed to obtain an understanding of Research Ethics, to orient students to life in Okinawa and Japan, to introduce students career options, and to develop professional skills through group projects. Student’s well-being is highly prioritized at OIST, internal mental health center professionals provide workshops on how to cope with stress during their PhD program. Year 2 is designed to provide students with professional skills required in both academia and industries. From Year 3 to 5, the courses are designed towards different career paths such as academia, industries and entrepreneurship. Some courses are targeting both academia and industries paths.

Group Projects

PCD Group Project is one of the requirements of PCD course during Year 1-2. Students will work with groups for chosen projects. This is a student-centered project in which contents of activities will be decided by student groups. Students completing this program will be able to design and present science information to targeted audience effectively and plan collaboratively and execute a team project. All projects will have some components where students have opportunities to engage with local Okinawan community members.

Guidance & Networking Opportunities

A dedicated Career Development Coordinator provides career guidance and training to launch your career. As the hub of a highly international network, OIST provides many opportunities for individual students to achieve visibility and develop contacts with future employers, including invited renowned speakers who bring students a chance to talk face-to-face with world leaders in science, technology, industry and science communication.

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