RIKEN Diversity Initiative

To further encourage the success of female researchers, RIKEN has been implementing various affirmative action measures under the RIKEN Diversity Initiative launched in FY 2021.

Diversity Acceleration Fund

To support and encourage the RIKEN centers that enhance initiatives to hire female researchers and promote their activities, the program offers subsidies for all or a portion of the cost of these initiatives.

Eleven centers received the funding in FY 2025.

RIKEN Diversity Initiative Award

Among the initiatives taken by RIKEN centers to promote the hiring and success of female researchers, those recognized for their particular efforts are determined by a vote from all employees. The Awards have been conferred annually since FY 2022.

RIKEN Diversity Initiative Award 2025 award winners

RIKEN Diversity Initiative Award Grand Prize

BioResource Research Center (BRC)

Promotions for the recruitment of female researchers and young technical staff

RIKEN Diversity Initiative Award

Transformative Research Innovation Platform of RIKEN platforms (TRIP)

Activities to develop the next generation of technical staff working at RIKEN core facilities

RIKEN Diversity Day

Institute-wide annual event to share initiatives taken under the RIKEN Diversity Initiative. It is held on International Women’s Day every year.

In addition to announcing and commending the winners of the RIKEN Diversity Initiative Award, we are working to boost momentum for the promotion of diversity by sharing centers’ initiatives as good practices throughout RIKEN.