On Tuesday, August 26, JAIST and Elsevier (Netherlands) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Tokyo Satellite to promote collaboration in "Advancing Research Management and Social Transformation through AI, and Exploring the Emerging Role of Universities."

The signing of this MoU follows a meeting held on Thursday, June 12, at the satellite between Elsevier Chairman Youngsuk "YS" Chi and President Minoru Terano. During the meeting, the two leaders engaged in lively discussions on JAIST's contributions to regional society through initiatives such as Matching HUB, efforts to drive social transformation using AI, and the concept of the "Fourth Generation University (4GU)" -- a new model of university that has been gaining traction in Europe.

Building on this exchange of ideas, JAIST and Elsevier will jointly develop a White Paper on research management and social transformation powered by AI. This paper will be disseminated globally with the aim of presenting a model for university transformation. Another key objective of the MoU is to promote the 4GU concept in Japan, which emphasizes universities' active participation in local ecosystems from the early stages, fostering innovation rooted in the community to address societal challenges and drive regional economic growth.

Through this agreement, JAIST will further advance initiatives that harness cutting-edge science and technology-- including generative AI-- in collaboration with local communities, governments, and industry partners, striving to create practical and sustainable social value.

Left: Dr. TERANO Minoru, President
Right: Dr. Youngsuk "YS" Chi, Chairman of Elsevier

September 9, 2025