Expectations for the Graduate School of Frontier Exploration in Earth and Space
RIKEN / Rans View Corporation
We expect the graduate school to develop into a comprehensive hub for talent development by leveraging the Kansai region's strong networks among universities and industry.
Yoshie OTAKE
Team Director, Neutron Beam Technology Development Team, Center for Advanced Photonics, RIKEN
Chief Technical Advisor, Rans View Co., Ltd. (scheduled to become Representative Director from fiscal year 2026)
* Affiliation and position current as of the time of the interview (March 2026).
COMPANY PROFILE
Company Profile
Rans View Corporation is a RIKEN-originated startup founded in April 2023, based on the cutting-edge research and development technology of the compact neutron systems developed by RIKEN. Its business activities include non-destructive measurement technology utilizing neutron beams, as well as the development and practical social implementation of compact neutron systems for use in the field. In particular, its primary business to date has been measurement services for nationwide bridge inspections using the RANS-μ neutron salt meter.
University education aimed at the research and development of science and technology, with the primary goal of advancing terrestrial technology into space development, is talent development in its truest sense—producing people capable of contributing broadly in international society—and we find it highly valuable and appealing. We expect that education at the Graduate School of Frontier Exploration in Earth and Space will develop talent that is both grounded yet ambitious.
We also hope that the program will leverage the regional characteristics of Kansai, where many comprehensive universities are concentrated and inter-university and industry collaboration is strong, as well as the advantages of a comprehensive university capable of drawing in research from diverse fields, to develop into a comprehensive hub for talent development centered on space development.
· Researcher or engineer responsible for technology development
We believe that students who have acquired knowledge and ways of thinking across various science and engineering fields as undergraduates, and have accumulated experience, will build their future by applying their foundational expertise while thinking about "what can be done in space" and carrying out research and experiments at the graduate school.
To contribute in our team, it is essential to have knowledge of space radiation detection, experience in radiation simulation, and an education that is recognized in international society. It is also important to have a way of thinking not bound by existing realities. Furthermore, in space development it is important to have the perspective that all fields currently operating on Earth, including medicine, agriculture, and civil engineering, are relevant. Make the most of the advantages of a comprehensive university by attending lectures outside your specialty, participating in talks, and exposing yourself to as many things as possible to broaden the range of your interests. When engaging in research and development, simply having "seen something before," "heard of something," or "touched something" significantly lowers the barrier you experience. Knowing what your own strengths are is also important. By establishing a firm foundation of your own — a place you can return to when building your reasoning — you make further growth possible.
MESSAGE
Message for prospective students of the Graduate School of Frontier Exploration in Earth and Space
Business development in space is becoming a reality. The appeal of the space research field is that you can learn while looking ahead to how basic research ultimately connects to industrial development, how it contributes to society, and what paths lie beyond your studies. Learn about, research, and experience space — something both familiar and distant — as a science. Let us move forward together, aiming to contribute to the creation of a brighter future society.
Space startups are also on the rise. When starting a business, it is essential to have a clear goal in mind around "where and how it will be used." Beyond the strength of your interest and enthusiasm, what proves to be the key to success is how many people are willing to join you in the work. The Graduate School of Frontier Exploration in Earth and Space can also serve as a testing ground for venture models. Calling on upperclassmen and peers to try out your ideas within the school is also a good approach. I truly hope you will take on the challenge.
Other company expectations
- ispace
- Axelspace Corporation
- OYO Corporation
- KDDI CORPORATION
- Kohoku Kogyo Co., Ltd.
- Samco Inc.
- Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd.
- SkymatiX, Inc.
- Space BD Inc.
- Systems Engineering Consultants Co.,LTD.
- Takenaka Corporation
- Toray Carbon Magic Co., Ltd.
- Panasonic Operational Excellence Co., Ltd.
- HORIBA, Ltd.
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc.
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation
- RIKEN / Rans View Corporation
- Warpspace Inc.