Prof. Akira Ando

Tohoku University
Center for Promoting Graduate Studies Director
PhD Career Development Center Director
(Specially Appointed Professor)

The Center for Promoting Graduate Studies, under the leadership of the Tohoku University Advanced Graduate School, is dedicated to advancing graduate education. We implement leading graduate programs and common courses that transcend traditional academic boundaries, fostering interdisciplinary, and international research. We also provide a dedicated environment to assist graduate students with their career planning and research endeavors.

Our center actively nurtures the next generation of global leaders, improves the quality of graduate education, and develops highly skilled human resources. We achieve this through a range of targeted initiatives, including the planning, preparation, and coordination of higher education, career support, and the enhancement of the study and research environment for graduate students.

We are proud that Tohoku University has been selected for prestigious initiatives such as JST’s “SPRING (Support for Pioneering Research Initiated by the Next Generation)” and “BOOST (Broadening Opportunities for Outstanding young researchers and doctoral students in STrategic areas).” Additionally, we have launched our own unique “AGS RISE Program (Research Initiative for International Scholarly Excellence Program).” These programs significantly expand scholarship support and ensure promising career paths for our doctoral students.

Our commitment is to continually enhance the quality of graduate education at Tohoku University, making our doctoral programs a more attractive and rewarding academic journey. We actively support our doctoral students in developing both advanced expertise and crucial transferable skills, empowering them to thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.