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CREST Guide (August 2018 version)
National Research and Development Agency
Japan Science and Technology Agency JST
CREST Guide
(Handbook for Researchers)
Department of Innovation Research,
JST
August 2018
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 2
Introduction
The purpose of Strategic Basic Research Programs is to advance strategic basic research
under policies determined by the Japanese Government, and create the seeds of innovative
technologies from new scientific knowledge that gives rise to scientific and technical
innovation leading to social and economic change.
Under the CREST program, we strongly expect that researchers will unflinchingly take up the
challenge of innovative research that creates a wellspring of top innovation from excellent
science under the guidance of Research Supervisors. We hope that these research opportunities
can be used as fields to broaden activities and achieve tremendous breakthroughs.
This guide explains the points necessary to pursue CREST research, including Research
Plans, research budget use, reporting of research results, and research evaluation.
CREST research budgets are funded by precious tax revenues collected from taxpayers in
Japan. Thus, we request the fair and efficient execution of research costs by complying with the
rules established by JST and each research affiliation.
Strategic
Objectives
Objectives prescribed by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
that will sow the seeds of innovative technologies from new scientific knowledge that gives
rise to scientific and technical innovation leading to social and economic change, bearing in
mind research trends both in Japan and overseas.
Research Areas Under the Strategic Objectives, JST defines the Research Areas to be pursued.
Research
Supervisor
Oversees Research Areas as a director of research institute consisting of networks of researchers,
and manages the Research Area including selection of Research Project, coordination of
Research Plans, advising on Research Projects, evaluation, and other necessary activities.
Research Projects Title of Research Project proposal selected in the solicitation
(Take note of the difference from “Research Subtitles.”)
Research
SubtitlesTitles of each individual Research Project contracted under the Research Projects
Research TeamA time-limited trans-organ research organization of one or more groups for the Research
Project NB: Corresponds one-to-one with the Research Projects
Research
Director
Representing the Research Team, a researcher who is responsible for pursuing the overall
Research Project. (the registration of researcher information with e-Rad is essential) (JST will
conclude Contract Research Agreements with the universities or corporate research institutions
to which the Research Directors are affiliated.)
Lead Joint
Researcher
The researcher who represents the research organization. As a leader of the joint research
group, the researcher pursues the necessary research to realize the Research Director’s
Research Plan. (The registration of researcher information with e-Rad is essential.) (JST will
enter into Contract Research Agreements with the universities or corporate research
institutions to which the Lead Joint Researchers are affiliated.)
Responsible
Researchers
Research Directors and Lead Joint Researchers (listed as the main researcher of the contract
research and specified in the contract)
Research
Participants
The Responsible Researchers and other researchers, engineers, research aides, students, etc.
who engage in the research. (The members listed in the Research Plans.)
Research Plans Research Plans from each Research Team approved by the Research Supervisor for the
corresponding research subjects must be prepared for both the overall and annual plans.
◆Explanation of CREST Terminology
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 3
1. What is CREST?・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 4
Purpose of the program / Responsibility and roles of Research Directors and Lead Joint
Researchers / Schedule
■ Research Plans and Cost Using
2. How to organize a Research Team・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 7
Key points in organizing a Research / Participation of private enterprises and overseas
research institutions is possible / Registration of Research Participants, handling of
students
3. How are the research costs decided?・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・10
Research Plans and Contract Research Agreements / Points to be aware of in preparing a
Research Plan and revisions
4. What can the research costs be used for? ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・12
Direct costs (research costs) and indirect costs (overheads) / Points to be aware of in
using direct costs
5. Can equipment be shared or combined purchases made?・・・・・・・・・・・・14
6. Transferring sums to other budget item categories ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・15
7. Carryover of budget to the following fiscal year (1), (2)・・・・・・・・・・・・16
8. What happens in case of job transfer or reassignment? ・・・・・・・・・・・・18
9. Regarding the promotion of diversity・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・19
10. Towards the promotion of fair and honest research ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・20
■ Research results
11. Handling of research results ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・21
Submitting research results through research papers or oral presentations /Announcements
made to the outside world, press releases / Open access to research papers and data
management / Intellectual property rights/ Research reports
■ Research evaluation
12. How will the research be evaluated? ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 26
Evaluation of the Research Projects and Research Areas
■ Points of attention
13. Points to be aware of in implementing the research and other matters ・・・・・・27
Contents
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 4
1. What is CREST?
‒ Purpose of the program ‒
CREST promotes goal-oriented basic research that is unique and of an internationally high
standard in order to accomplish the Strategic Objectives designated by the Japanese
government. CREST supports network-based research undertaken by research teams aiming
to produce outstanding results that will make major contributions to future science and
technology innovation.
・The Research Supervisor (Program Officer) acts as the lab director of the research consisting of
networks of researchers (Research Area) by managing the Research Team at industrial, academic,
and governmental institutions.
・The Research Supervisor, as the person in charge of the Research Area, oversees work in the
Research Area to accomplish the Strategic Objectives, with support from Research Area Advisors.
・The Program Directors (PDs) consider and propose management policies and system reforms for
the overall CREST Program.
Research Area
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 5
1. What is CREST?‒ Responsibility and roles of Research Directors and Lead Joint Researchers ‒
■ Responsibility and roles of Research Directors and Lead Joint Researchers
Research Directors will bear responsibility for the implementation and progress monitoring of
the Research Plans, including the establishment and management of the research budget. They
will also be responsible for the whole Research Team, for submitting research reports to JST
(including the Research Supervisor), and for taking the steps required for research evaluations.
Research Directors will be requested to take responsibility for serving as a contact point and
coordinator within the Research Team.
Lead Joint Researchers shall appropriately manage (expenditure planning and its implementation
etc.) research budgets for their own Research Groups.
Research Directors and Lead Joint Researchers are responsible for the proper and effective
execution of the research costs and implementation of the research by the overall Research Team
and their own Research Groups respectively, bearing in mind that the JST’s research budgets are
funded by precious tax revenue collected from taxpayers in Japan.
Research Directors, Lead Joint Researchers, and other Research Participants are asked to
participate in and complete the research integrity educational program (available online)
specified by JST to prevent fabrication, falsification, plagiarism and wrongful use of funds
during the course of their research activities. Research Directors and Lead Joint Researchers are
asked to be sure to notify the participating researchers etc. of the participation in the research
integrity educational program.
Research Directors are continuously required not to violate the requirements regarding the
conflict of interests with Research Supervisor that has been prescribed at the time of solicitation.
JST requires legal compliance with related laws, regulations, and national guidelines to prevent
fabrication, falsification, plagiarism and wrongful use of funds in the course of research
activities.
Special consideration should be given to the research and working environment and/or
conditions of the Research Participants.
Active support should be provided to establish diversified career paths for young researchers.
The research results should be actively reported both domestically and abroad, with due
consideration for the acquisition of intellectual property rights.
Please abide by the Contract Research Agreements between JST and research organizations,
and JST’s various rules that are defined in the Contract Research Agreements.
Other than the above, if there is anything that falls under the provision, “Points to be aware of in
pursuing the research and other matters” mentioned on pages 27-28, please correspond
appropriately.
■ Corresponding to JST’s Program Operations
Cooperation with Strategic Basic Research Program evaluations, accounting examinations by
JST, accounting audits by the Japanese government, etc., is requested.
Cooperation in various JST-sponsored symposia and events is requested.
Cooperation by providing various types of information, responding to interviews, etc., in
connection with follow-up evaluations performed some time after project completion is
requested.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 6
1. What is CREST?
‒ Schedule ‒
■ Example of a Research Team selected in FY2018 (to end in FY2023)
FY
2018
From Aug
2018
Oct 1
Oct-Dec
Dec-Jan 2019
Feb-Mar
Mar-Jun
FY
2019
Dec 2019–
Jan 2020
Feb-Mar
Mar-Jun
FY2021 Interim Report Prepared by Research Director Interim
Evaluation Committee (usually held approximately 3 years
after research initiation)
FY2023Post-completion Report Prepared by Research Director
Post–completion Committee
Some time after
Project Completion
Please cooperate with Follow-up Evaluation
conducted by JST
For FY2020 till end of research completion fiscal year,
basically the same schedule as FY2019 will be applied
Interim evaluation
Post-completion evaluation
Follow-up evaluation
For Researchers For the Institute Secretariat
Prepare Overall Research Plan
Plan for FY2018
Prepare Research Plan for FY2019
Selected Proposal Research Starts Contract Research Agreement for FY2018
Prepare Financial Statements for FY2018
Settlement of Contract Research Fees for FY2018
Prepare procedures for Contract Research Agreement for FY2019
Prepare Research Report for FY2018
Prepare Research Plan for FY2020
Prepare procedures for Contract Research Agreement for FY2020
Settlement of Contract Research Fees for FY2019
Explanation on Handling Contracts
Prepare Research Report for FY2019Prepare Financial Statements for FY2019
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 7
2. How to organize a Research Team
‒ Key points in organizing a Research Team ‒
・ Assemble a Research Team, which consists of the optimal number of research groups for
pursuing the research initiatives of the Research Director.
・ The Research Team can consist only of people from the Research Director’s research institution,
but it can also include researchers, etc., from other research institutions.
・ Researchers and research assistants, etc., can participate as Research Participants in the Research
Team (it is also possible to employ them within the research budget).
・ Research Team organizations may be revised (excluding a change of Research Director) with the
approval of the Research Supervisor, depending on the progress of the research.
*Please refer to pages 2 and 10 of this guide.
The Research Director should construct a research team where he/she takes the central role and
bares responsibility for the whole Research Team.
Research Director
Researcher (Affiliation A)
Researcher (Affiliation A)
Lab staff
(Affiliation A)
Research Team
Joint Research Group (1) Joint Research Group (2) Joint Research Group (3)
Researcher (Affiliation B)
Researcher (Affiliation B)
Researcher (Affiliation C)
Researcher (Affiliation C)
Researcher (Affiliation D)
Researcher (Affiliation D)
Lead Joint Researcher
(Group leader)
Lead Joint Researcher
(Group leader)Lead Joint Researcher
(Group leader)
Research Director's
Group
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 8
2. How to organize a Research Team‒ Participation of private enterprises and overseas institutions is possible ‒
■ Participation of private enterprises・Researchers from Private Enterprises can participate in CREST Research Projects as Research
Directors, Lead Joint Researchers, or Research Participants.
・In the case that a contracted supplier (private enterprise) needs to participate in the Research Team,
please consult JST beforehand.
・Contracting (subcontracting) any work that includes R&D elements is not permitted in principle.
・Expenditure on salaries for the Research Director and Lead Joint Researcher is not permitted.
(Note) When procurement is made by a 100% affiliate company or one’s own company, there are
cases where profits need to be excluded. Please refer to the document entitled “Administrative Points
to be Aware of in Documents Related to the Contract Research Agreement” (hereinafter
“Administrative Points to be Aware of”) and take the appropriate steps.
URL: http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/index2.html
■ Participation of overseas research institutionsParticipation of overseas research institutions is possible if they meet the following conditions. The
Research Director must be affiliated with a domestic Japanese research institution, where they will
organize and pursue the proposed research.
・Achieve approval from the Research Supervisor on the following aspects:
- The overseas research institution is regarded as indispensable in achieving the research initiative of
the Research Director, and can only be achieved with their participation.
- The Research Director must be able to trace the research progress and results without fail.
・Enter into Collaborative Research Agreement with JST under the following conditions:
- The overseas research institution is required to transfer, free of charge, intellectual property rights
to JST. (However, the research institution has a right to the use of academic research of its own and
for other non-commercial purposes. In addition, Article 19 of the Industrial Technology
Enhancement Act (the Japanese version of the Bayh-Dole Act) does not apply to overseas research
institutions.)
- The overseas research institution must be able to properly execute the budget according to the
research agreement or according to JST’s budget execution guidelines and must be able to submit a
detailed statement of research expenses (equivalent to the balance book of Japanese institutions) in
English.
- Payments to the overseas research institution for overhead (indirect) costs should not exceed 30%
of the direct costs (research budget).
* In principle, the research institution must be able to enter into agreements on the contents
specified by JST.
For more details, please refer to the English language template of the CREST Collaborative
Research Agreement, which can be viewed at the following URL:
URL:http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/boshuu/teian/koubo/Template_Collaborative_Research_Agreement.pdf
■ Implement the endeavors in relation to the clarification of the cooperation and
rights and obligations among the research organizations that participate in the
research team.⇒ In order to prevent any occurrence of inconvenience in an appropriate implementation of the research
or in the use etc. of the achievements of the research, provide necessary measures, for example, by
entering into a joint research agreement with the participating organizations within the scope that does
not contradict the Contract Research Agreement in relation to the handling of intellectual property rights,
confidentiality, etc.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 9
2. How to organize a Research Team‒ Registration of Research Participants, handling of students ‒
■ Registration of Research Participants・Please specify (register) participating members of CREST Research Projects in the Research Plan.
・Besides the Research Director and the Lead Joint Researcher, those who need to be registered as Research
Participants are researchers, research assistants, and doctoral students who are substantially involved in the
CREST Project.
・Please set the number of Research Participants at a necessary and sufficient scale for the Research Project.
・As a principle, travel and personnel expenses are treated as research costs only for those who are registered
in the Research Plan. It may be permissible to omit registration in the Research Plan of Research Participants,
invited persons, or those who are engaged in the research for less than three months per year, and for which
there is no likelihood that they will author papers or become inventors related to the results of the research.
However, if there is a possibility that a person or persons may become authors of research papers or inventors
concerned with an achievement of the research, they must be registered in the Research Plan even if their
involvement is only temporary.
・In the case where a researcher from an unrelated organization or a non-employed student participates in the
CREST Project, it will be necessary for them to abide by the terms (regarding the intellectual property rights
and confidentiality, etc.) set in the Contract Research Agreements.
■ Requirements of students to be registered・As a principle, he/she is a doctoral course student with a basic scientific qualification and can take on an
important role in the research.
・Alternatively, some special mission (such as the upkeep of experimental animals, programming, taking
measurements, data analysis, etc.), exceeding the boundaries of the normal university curriculum and/or
studies for academic degrees is permissible, as long as it does not interfere with studies.*
*As for the students who graduate or finish their course of study in the fiscal year, consider an ample time for
them to participate in the CITI Japan e-Learning and register them by the third semester whenever it is
possible to do so.
*Master’s course students and undergraduates may exceptionally participate in the research if they meet the
conditions mentioned above. However, those who wish to participate only for an educational purpose or those
with missions that overlapped with their studies do not fall under this category.
■ Recommendation of Research Assistants (RAs)In order to attract talented students and professionals from both inside and outside of Japan, the 3rd, 4th and
5th Science and Technology Basic Plan all seek to improve financial support for graduate school students,
latter stage doctoral students in particular, citing the following numeric goals: “Specifically, we will strive to
enable 20 percent of doctoral students to receive an amount equivalent to their living expenses.” Furthermore,
the compilation of the deliberations of the Central Council for Education on “The Reform of Graduate School
Education to Lead the Future” (compiled on September 15, 2015 by the Subdivision on Universities)
requested that it should be made a basic principle to improve employment of latter stage doctoral students as
Research Assistants (RA) through various funding sources, and that when latter stage doctoral students are
employed as RA or Teaching Assistants (TA), they should be paid a salary equivalent to their living costs. In
response to these requests, please enthusiastically seek to employ latter stage doctoral students as RA when
conducting CREST research, and while aiming to base their salaries on the amount of their living expenses
configure the sum appropriately and in line with the number of hours they work.
NB:
In this sense, CREST recommends that when a doctoral student (latter stage) is employed as an RA, the
student’s salary be set at a level approximate to their living expenses (approximately 2 million yen per
year or 170,000 yen per month).
However, the actual amount to be paid and the duration of payment lies with the research institution. This
recommendation does not restrict them to pay more or less than the mentioned amount.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 10
3. How are the research costs decided?
‒ Research Plans and Contract Research Agreements ‒O
ver
all
Res
earc
h P
lan
An
nu
al
Res
earc
h P
lan
・An Overall Research Plan is prepared for the team by the Research Director
in consultation with the Lead Joint Researcher.
・The basic plan, research content and organization, and budget plans, etc. will
be prepared for the entire research period (see Page 11 for reference).
・With the approval of the Research Supervisor, the total budget amount is
decided. However, the total budget amount at this stage is only an
estimation, since the budget will be reviewed each fiscal year.
・The Overall Research Plan is reviewed every fiscal year, as necessary.
・The Contract Research Agreement* to be entered with JST will include the
contract research fee and the breakdown of budget items for the
corresponding fiscal year.
・The research fee after the 2nd fiscal year will be determined based on the
Research Plan of the corresponding fiscal year and a revised agreement
will be concluded at the beginning of the period.
・JST will pay the research fee of the corresponding fiscal year, as specified in
the agreement, to each research institution as a contract research fee.
*The contract format can be found at the following URL:
http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/index2.html (in Japanese)
・The Annual Research Plan will be prepared by the Research Director with
the cooperation of the Lead Joint Researcher each fiscal year. (Please read
the explanations and examples in the formats for each plan carefully.)
・From the 2nd fiscal year, the research content, research organization, budget
implementation plan, etc., for the Research Plan of the corresponding fiscal
year will be prepared reflecting on the research progress and research
results achieved in the previous year.
・With the approval of the Research Supervisor, the budget for the
corresponding fiscal year is decided.
NB: The Research Directors and Lead Joint Researchers need to inform the
contracting and accounting sections of their affiliations about the contents
of the Research Plan for the group they are leading. However, please treat
the Research Plan with great care since it contains personal data and
unreleased confidential information.
■ Research costs are decided by the Research Supervisor based on the Research Plan.
■ JST will pay research costs to the affiliated institutions of the Research Director and Lead
Joint Researcher, pursuant to the individual Contract Research Agreements.
研究契約書
or
覚書)
研究契約書
or
覚書)
Co
ntr
act
Res
earc
h
Ag
reem
ent
(or
Rev
ised
Agre
emen
t)
Affiliation A
Affiliation B
Affiliation C
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 11
3. How are the research costs decided?‒ Points to be aware of in preparing a Research Plan and revisions ‒
• Be sure to include Commodity Fees after considering the state of existing facilities, their
necessity and adequacy, and only if they are indispensable.
• When procuring expensive items, we recommend that you conduct market research by
obtaining estimates for reference beforehand. Please be careful not to cause significant
changes between the amount indicated in the plan and the actual budget implementation.
• Procurement by government-affiliated agencies such as national university corporations and
independent administrative agencies are subject to international competitive bidding.
Therefore, please take into account the date of delivery and so on when procuring expensive
items (for FY2018 “expensive” is defined as costing 15 million yen or more) and including
them in the budget.
• Personnel expenses will continue to be a heavy burden through the following years, so
please be cautious at the beginning of the employment.
Please include the amount as accurately as possible at the time of preparation.
• Considering the state of research progress and state of budget implementation, the research
budget may be increased (or decreased) halfway through the fiscal year based on the
judgment of the Research Director.
• It is possible to flexibly transfer sums to other budget item categories without obtaining
approval from JST if it fulfills the necessary requirements. (For details, see Page 15 of this
guide.)
• Even if the budget changes are deemed acceptable under the transfer restriction limit, in the
event that any major changes (such as the addition or deletion of an important research item
or dramatic course correction in pursuing the research, etc.) occur, you must confirm with
JST beforehand, regardless of the amount of transfer or the transfer itself.
Changes to the Research Plan can be made mid-year.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 12
4. What can the Research Costs be used for?
‒ Direct costs (research costs) and indirect costs ‒
Can be used for various costs directly necessary to implement the research
*1 When new equipment is purchased, please ensure that you check in advance that it does not overlap
with useable equipment and apparatus (similar equipment and apparatus) that is already in the
possession of the research institution to which you are affiliated.
*2 Even if the multi-year lease and rental fees are paid in advance, only the amount for which the duration
has elapsed for that fiscal year can be included.
*3: For more precise details of the budget items and examples of typical usage in the Contract Research
Agreements, please refer to and check the Administrative Points to be Aware of and FAQ (in
Japanese) at the following web pages:
Universities etc. http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/download/h30/h30a301manua180801.pdf
Universities etc. FAQ http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/download/h30/h30kisokena301faq180401.pdf
Corporations etc. http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/download/h30/h30c301manua180801.pdf
Corporations etc. FAQ http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/download/h30/h30kisokenc301faq180401.pdf
■ Costs not regarded as direct costs Costs for items not consistent with the objectives and purpose of CREST research.
Personnel costs for Responsible Researchers (Research Directors, Lead Joint Researchers)
Personnel costs for those who are already covered by government funds such as Management
Expenses Grants and government subsidies to private educational institutions
Sub-contract fees that include any elements of R&D
That which usage as indirect expenses would be appropriate (which would be treated as general
administrative costs (such as management division personnel costs and so on) in ordinary corporate
auditing accounting) are included in the indirect costs.
Patent related fees (application fees, patent attorney fees, related travel expenses, procedure fees,
translation fees, etc.), annual membership fees for scientific societies, etc., and expenses arising from
the acquisition of qualifications, which will become the rights of the research institutions or
participating researchers.
Deposits, guarantees and any other monies that are expected beforehand to be refunded.
Anything for which the use of in the settlement of contract research fees and so on is deemed as
inappropriate by JST.
Item Categories in the
ContractExamples of Usage
Direct
Costs
Commodities*1Fees for research facilities, equipment, samples, existing software, books, reagents,
materials, consumable supplies for research
Travel ExpensesTravel expenses for Responsible Researchers and Research Participants, etc., specified in
the Research Plan; travel expenses for invited speakers
Personnel ExpensesSalaries, etc., for researchers specified in the Research Plan; payment to staffing agency for
temporary staff; honorariums, etc., for invited personnel
Other Expenses
Costs related to the presentation of research results (research paper submission fees, printing
costs, construction of website costs, etc.); conference costs; transportation fees; rental fees
for facilities (research implementation site); lease fees for equipment*2; costs for repair and
maintenance of equipment; printing fees; costs for outsourcing (costs for outsourcing
software, costs for inspection-related work, etc.); costs for software license use; fees for
inspection work; consumption tax equivalent for tax-exempt transactions
Overhead (Indirect) CostsIndirect costs paid at a fixed rate that are necessary expenses for the research institutions’
management etc. arising due to the implementation of the research.
■ Budget item categories in the Contract Research Agreement and examples of usage
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 13
4. What can the Research Costs be used for?
‒ Points to be aware of in using direct costs ‒
■ Travel ExpensesReasons for authorizing expenses are as follows
・Presentation of research results
・Meetings or symposiums held by JST within the Research Area of the Research Project
・Meetings within the Research Team
・Personal transfer allowance (travel expenses) of researcher employed using direct costs
・Invited specialists from non-related institutions
・Field work (observation, material sampling, field survey, etc.)
・Other reasons when deemed necessary to pursue the contract research
Persons eligible for payment are as follows
・Responsible researchers (Research Directors, Lead Joint Researchers)
・In principle, Research Participants specified in the Research Plan
・Invited specialists from non-related institutions
NB: Travel expenses for students attending academic meetings only for educational purposes who
are not presenting any research results will not be authorized.
Please refer to the rules of the research institutions and determine appropriately.
■ Personnel Expenses・Persons eligible for payment are the researchers, technical staff, research assistants, etc., who are
registered as Research Participants in the Research Plan and are directly necessary for the
accomplishment of this CREST research.
・External experts are eligible to receive honorariums.
・The following cases cannot be paid from the direct cost.
1) Personnel costs for Research Directors and Lead Joint Researchers
2) Personnel costs for those who are already covered by government funds such as Management
Expenses Grants and government subsidies to private educational institutions
■ Other ExpensesRegarding Conference Fees
・Rental fees for venues and expenses for food and beverages (excluding alcohol) can be included.
・Conferences that are subject to food and beverage expenses must satisfy the conditions of either 1)
or 2) below.
1) When hosting conferences directly related to CREST research, including workshops and
symposiums
2) When a non-related researcher (outside the team) participates in the conference
Regarding Sub-contracting
・Sub-contracting work that includes any element of R&D is not permitted.
NB: When outsourcing a custom-made software, include it under “Other Expenses.” (Existing
software should be included under “Commodities.”)
Please refer to the Instructions for further details of the points to be aware of in implementing
the research budget at the following
URL: http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/index2.html (in Japanese)
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 14
5. Can equipment be shared or combined
purchases made?
■ Sharing use of equipment
• Please keenly consider the use of mechanisms for the joint use of research facilities and
equipment within your institution of affiliation, provided this does not disrupt the
implementation of CREST research.
• However, appropriate measures need to be taken on matters such as sharing the responsibility
and cost for repairing damages and utility costs.
NB: The above also applies to the combined purchase of research equipment etc.
NB: Institutions that are classified as private companies, etc., need to apply for approval to JST
beforehand.
NB: Please refer to page 28 for precise details of the background to the system
■ Combined purchase of equipment
• There is a need to undergo preliminary confirmation by JST having first of all met the
conditions for the totaled up various funds, and clearly shown that they are a logically
explicable share of financing.
• Especially when combining the funds of multiple researchers, they will need to decide
treatment of the purchased equipment in the case of job transfer of a researcher to a separate
institution beforehand, with the secretariat of the research institute, taking the ratio for sharing
the costs into account.
• If a job transfer of a researcher to a separate institution is already known, purchasing
equipment by combining the funds of multiple researchers will not in principle be permitted.
NB: Combined use by institutions classified as private companies is not permitted.
■ How to treat other cases of combined use
Cases permitted by combining the use of direct costs of a CREST Project and other costs
from a different fund to settle the payment related to a single contract are as follows:
• Cases in which the business of a CREST project and another is combined together in a single
business trip: The travel expense can be shared appropriately between CREST and the other
project.
• Cases in which consumable supplies are purchased in bulk: The sharing usage ratio will be
specified between CREST and the other project. The cost will be divided accordingly.
• Cases where the direct cost of CREST and funds not limited in use (such as
operation/administration costs, donations, etc.) can be combined and used for CREST.
NB: Institutes classified as private companies may not acquire commodities that will be regarded
as a fixed asset by combining CREST funds and their own funds.
It should be noted that in the event of co-purchasing with another third party other than JST or
the research institute itself, it is necessary to provide written clarification that each condition is
being satisfied, and you are asked to provide the application form found at the following URL,
and undergo preliminary confirmation by JST.
URL: http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/manual/index.html (in Japanese)
Sharing use of equipment and/or combined purchases is possible.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 15
6. Transferring sums to other budget item
categories
■ Procedure in cases when transferring budget items requires confirmation by
JST• When the amount of the transferred budget in each item category to be transferred for that year
exceeds 50% of the total direct cost and is more than 5 million yen, it becomes necessary to
obtain prior approval from JST (and Research Supervisor).
Application Procedures for Transferring Budget Items
1) Responsible researchers will notify the JST personnel by mail regarding the contents and
reasons for the transfer.*
2) The JST (and Research Supervisor) will decide if the transfer is necessary to pursue the
research..
3) JST will notify the Responsible Researchers regarding the decision.
*When contacting JST beforehand, please submit the Budget Transfer Application Form found here:
Form https://www.jst.go.jp/contract/download/h30/h30s520keiri180401y.docx
Example https://www.jst.go.jp/contract/download/h30/h30s520keiri180401m.pdf
■ Requirements to enable transfer without JST’s approval
• Even if the budget changes are deemed acceptable under the transfer restriction limit, in the event
that any major changes (such as the addition or deletion of an important research item or dramatic
course correction in pursuing the research, etc.) occur, you must confirm with JST beforehand,
regardless of the amount of transfer or the transfer itself.*
• Depending on the content of transfer, JST personnel may later confirm the details.
• Transferrable budget items are defined as the four items on Page 12 of Direct Costs in the
Research Contract, which are: Commodities, Travel Expenses, Personnel Expenses, and Other
Expenses. When budget items are transferred, it is not necessary to modify the Research Plan.
It is possible to flexibly transfer sums to other budget item categories if it fulfills the necessary requirements.
When the amount of the transferred budget in each item category for the corresponding year
does not exceed 50% of the total direct costs (or 5 million yen if 50% of the total direct costs
is less than 5 million yen)
Case studies
Case 1) Total direct costs of 20 million yen, total transferred to other budget items: 13 million yen
=> Prior permission required: (20 million yen x 50% > 5 million yen → in principle sums up to 10 million
yen do not require prior permission)
Case 2) Total direct costs of 20 million yen, total transferred to other budget items: 6 million yen
=> Prior permission unnecessary: (20 million yen x 50% > 5 million yen → in principle sums up to 10
million yen do not require prior permission)
Case 3) Total direct costs of 8 million yen, total transferred to other budget items 6 million yen
=> Prior permission required: (8 million yen x 50% < 5 million yen → in principle sums up to 5 million yen
do not require prior permission)
Case 4 ) Total direct costs of 4 million yen, total transferred to other budget items 2.5 million yen
=> Prior permission unnecessary: (4 million yen x 50% < 5 million yen → in principle sums up to 5 million
yen do no require prior permission.
*The examples of cases 2 and 4 above where prior permission is unnecessary are based on the assumption that there
will be no major changes to the research plan.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 16
7. Carryover budget to the following fiscal year (1)
During JST’s mid- to long-term plan period (FY2017-2021)
■ What is subject to carryover?
It is possible to carry over the unused budget of these direct costs on the assumption that it will be
used effectively and systematically as the research fund for the following year in cases where
unused direct costs become clear at the FY end period (e.g., overtime fees, consumable supply
fees, differences in prospective consumption tax equivalents, which are all unpredictable at the
time of planning).
Simple budget excess and unused funds do not fit into the category above; thus, they will not be
subject to budget carryover.
■ Carryover procedures according to the period when it becomes clear
1. Carryover identified prior to the end of the 3rd quarter (Apr – end of Dec) : Prior consultation
required
Universities etc.
1) In case of carryover without conclusion of agreement (a*) :
In principle, unused funds are returned to JST for the time being upon the conclusion of a revised
agreement. If the carryover is then approved, the funds are transferred back in the next project year.
2) In case of carryover funds with a concluded agreement (b*) :
In principle it is possible to carry over research expenses at the research institution retaining them
without having to return the funds due to contractual alterations.
NB: With regard to carryovers identified by the third quarter of the year, the Responsible Researchers
should consult with the JST personnel beforehand. In the event that the carryover is not approved the
party in question must then follow either of the procedures (1) or (2) above.
Corporations etc.
In the event that there is a need to use direct costs totaling over 100,000 yen during the next project
year, the responsible researchers are requested to consult with the personnel in charge of this matter at
JST by the third quarter of the year. In the event that permission is granted for the use of the funds
during the next project year, the Contract Research funds are returned to JST for the time being upon
the conclusion of a revised agreement, and the funds (budgets) will be transferred back for the next
project year.
By entering a multi-year Contract Research Agreement, research funds can be carried over
with simple procedures.
Although specified items in the Research Plan needed to be revised, due to unpredictable and
unavoidable reasons, the implementation of these items is necessary the following year to
pursue the research objective made possible by budget carryover.
(*a) Carryover without conclusion of agreement:
Both the concluded agreement for procurement of items, or delivery and receipt and inspection, shall
be regarded as matters for the next project year.
(*b) Carryover funds with a concluded agreement:
The concluded agreement for procurement of items expires within the project year in question, but the
delivery and receipt and inspection shall be regarded as matters for the next project year.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 17
2. Carryovers identified in the fourth and final quarter
Universities etc.
In principle it is possible to carry over research expenses at the research institution retaining them
without having to return the funds due to contractual alterations.
*Note that with regard to carryovers identified in the fourth quarter, the reasons etc. for these
carryovers do not have to be reported to JT beforehand, and research institutions are requested to deal
with these matters in an appropriate manner an at their own discretion.
Corporations etc.
It is possible for corporations etc. to carry over Research Contract funds with a ceiling equivalent to
direct costs of a maximum of 100,000 yen to which the sum of corresponding indirect costs are added,
on the proviso that they are to be effectively used over the next year as directly essential costs for the
execution of the project.
NB: Please refer to the below for precise details:
Administrative Points to be Aware of in Documents Related to the Contract Research Agreement
(Corporations)
http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/download/h30/h30c301manua180801.pdf
■ Points to be aware of
NB: Regardless of when they are identified, in the event that carryovers arise that will have a major
impact on Research Plans, or the stagnation of research funds is expected, the responsible researchers
are requested to swiftly consult with the personnel in charge of this matter at JST. Taking into
consideration the situation, it may then be necessary to review Research Plans and budgets.
NB: JST may conduct investigations into the state of execution of the research, including projected
carryovers, and your cooperation on such occasions will be appreciated. In the course of these
investigations there might be cases, according to the details of carryovers and the period of their
identification, in which upon the concluding of a revised agreement the research funds are returned to
JST for the time being, and then transferred back as part of the research costs (budget) for the
following year. Researchers are asked for their cooperation as this enables JST to effectively use funds
by allotting them to research issues that require funding within ongoing project years.
NB: Use the amount of the carryovers of the fiscal year in “Accounting Form 1: Contract Research
Result Report (and Report on Settlement of Account)” to make a report on the amount carried over
without returning it to JST and thus retained by the research institution. There is no specific form for a
separate report concerning carry-overs.
7. Carryover budget to the following fiscal year (2)During JST’s mid- to long-term plan period (FY2017-2021)
1st quarter 2nd quarter 3rd quarter 4th quarter Next fiscal year
1) Carryover funds without conclusion of agreement: In principle, transferred as part of the budget for the next year (prior consultation required/conclusion of revised agreement)
2) Carryover funds with a concluded agreement: (prior consultation required/conclusion of revised agreement not requisite)
3) In principle, when there is carryover at a research institution a revised agreement is not requisite.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 18
8. What happens in case of job transfer or reassignment?
■ Case where Research Director and/or Lead Joint Researcher transfers to
another research institute
• The Contract Research Agreement with the original research institution will be cancelled,
and a new Agreement will be concluded with the new research institution. Please contact
JST immediately once the transfer becomes clear.
• JST will request the return of the research contract funds from the original institution and
reallocate it to the new institution, so please contact JST immediately and revise the
Research Plans.
• The Contract Research Agreement stipulates that the commodities acquired through direct
costs should be handed over to the research institution to which one is newly transferred.
Depending on the category of the research institution (universities, etc., or private
companies, etc.) the transfer procedure for acquired commodities differs, so please consult
the clerical staff in charge at your research institution.
This assumes that the Research Director is affiliated to a domestic research institution and that
he/she will take responsibility in leading the research as mentioned on Page 7.
■ Case where the department name or job title of the Research Director and/or
Lead Joint Researcher changes
• Notification to JST in the designated format is necessary. Please contact your clerical staff
to enact the necessary procedures.
Even if transferred to another research institution, it is possible to continue the CREST
Research Project.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 19
9. Regarding the promotion of diversity
Handling the matter
during the life event
period
It is possible for someone to take the role of Research Director
and/or Lead Joint Researcher and continue the research on their
behalf.
Extension of
ResearchNo extensions are allowed.
Handling of Research
FundsNo changes to be made.
Guidelines for the management of CREST research funds at the time of life events
occurring to Research Directors and Lead Joint Researchers
NB: Duration of Life Events
・Childbirth: 6 weeks before birth (14 for multiples) and 8 weeks after birth
・Childrearing: A continuous period until the child’s 1st birthday
・Nursing Care: Period approved necessary during a continuous 6 month duration
JST implements a research and life event balance support policy (gender equality expenses
assistance to encourage R&D by researchers in question and mitigate the burdens placed upon
them). The objective of this is to allow researchers to continue their R&D without having to
take a break in their career in the occurrence of life events (such as childbirth, child-raising
and nursing care), and in cases in which they have no choice but to take time of work, allow
them to return to their research when they are ready and carry on with their subsequent
careers. Please refer to the following website for further details.
• JST initiatives aimed at diversity in research activities
http://www.jst.go.jp/diversity/en/index.html
• CREST/PRESTO initiatives aimed at promoting diversity (in Japanese)
http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/nadeshiko/index.html
Regarding the life events of researchers participating in CREST
Those who are employed as full-time researchers or, at the time of application, will definitely
be employed during the term during which support is provided, and who are either pregnant, or
rearing children who have yet to enter elementary school, or are devoting the majority of their
time to caring for somebody while continuing with their research can use the Childbirth,
Child-raising, Nursing Care Support System, which is funded from the research budgets
(indirect expenses) of JST projects. Under this system, gender-equal society promotion funds
will be paid to the researcher receiving support in order to encourage research and contribute to
alleviating the burdens placed upon the recipient researchers.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 20
10. Towards the promotion of fair and honest
research
In the case that any misconduct in research activities or inappropriate usage of research funding is uncovered, the
details will be closely scrutinized, the contract research may be cancelled, all or part of the project’s research
funding returned, and measures taken to publicize the facts of the matter.
Responsible Researchers and Research Participants must take responsibility for the proper and appropriate
execution of the contract research funding in accordance with the rules, etc., of the affiliated institutions.
The participants in a research who have been listed in the Research Plans are obliged to take part in the research
ethics study (CITI Japan e-Learning) (a partial exemption available). To add and list research participants in a
Research Plan, consider the extra time for taking part in the CITI Japan e-Learning, and add and list them by the
third semester whenever doing so is possible. (In particular, consider this when there is a student who graduates
or finishes his or her course in the year.) In addition, if JST has determined that the provided measures are
insufficient, for example, because the person who is supposed to participate in the CITI Japan E-Learning does
not participate in such a course in spite of repetitious reminders, then some necessary measures may be taken,
including stopping the provision of the whole or a part of the contract research funding etc.
In order to prevent misconduct or inappropriate behavior in research activities, the autonomous
self-cleansing function of the science community is required. Each and every researcher needs to
undertake the task of creating new intelligence and inventing valuable innovations for society
with a strong sense of morality, thus living up to the expectations of society.
As an agency distributing research funds, JST takes the matter of misconduct in research activities
very seriously. JST is taking all steps possible to restore public trust with the cooperation of
related organizations.
1. JST believes that fair and honest research activities are extremely important to Japan in its aim
to become a scientific and technological nation.
2. JST will support honest and responsible research activities.
3. JST will take strict measures against misconduct in research activities.
4. JST will cooperate with related organizations to take steps to promote the ethics
education of research and reform the distribution system of research funds.
In order to achieve a bright future full of ambition and hope, we need to develop a healthy
scientific culture based on the trust of society. We request the continuing understanding and
cooperation of the research community and related organizations.
The homepage regarding JST’s research integrity is at the following
URL: http://www.jst.go.jp/researchintegrity/index.html (in Japanese)
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 21
11. Handling of research results‒ Submitting research results through research papers or oral presentations ‒
When reporting on research results, please indicate that you received support from CREST.
■ Please indicate under “Acknowledgements” that you received support from
CREST as shown in the following example.
* Inquire with the personnel in charge of this matter at JST about the grant numbers, and lists of
grant numbers
http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/manual/index.html (in Japanese)
■ You no longer need to write “CREST, JST” in the author affiliation (starting
from the second half of 2015).
Example acknowledgement
This work was supported by JST CREST Grant Number JPxxxxxxxx, Japan.
Please consider applying for patents before making announcements.
*Please refer to page 24 of this guide
■ If a new invention is created from CREST research, please consider thoroughly its patent
application so that the invention will be protected, together with the purpose of returning the
results back to society.
■ Patent applications should be made before making announcements to the outside world;
otherwise, its novelty will be lost and it will become difficult to acquire a patent.
(In Japan, if the patent application is made within 6 months of the announcement, there are
cases where special exceptions are made on the issue of novelty loss, but it may become
impossible to obtain a patent in Europe and other foreign countries.)
■ With regard to the application for or transfer of intellectual property rights, please ensure that
the prior application and various notifications to JST are made, within the stated term, as per
the stipulations of the Contract Research Agreement and this guide, coordinate the requisite
rules and systems within your research institution, and be thorough in ensuring that there are
no oversights or lateness.
When indicating, please use either “CREST, JST” or “CREST, Japan Science and Technology
Agency” and not just “JST” or “CREST” alone.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 22
11. Handling of research results‒ Announcements made to the outside world, press releases ‒
・After taking into consideration if the research is in accordance with the Research Plan, its novelty,
the impact of the results, the timing of announcing the research paper, etc., and obtaining the
approval of the Research Supervisor, JST may issue a press release at the MEXT Press Club.
・Since it will take approximately two weeks to make preparations at JST and MEXT, please contact
JST as soon as possible once you receive a positive indication regarding the acceptance of the
research paper.
(Complete the requisite items in the Basic Press Information Sheet and contact the personnel in charge of this
matter at JST)
http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/manual/index.html (in Japanese)
・The basic style of a press release is 1) a joint press release with JST, with your affiliated institution
as the main author, 2) a joint press release with your affiliated institution with JST as the main
author, 3) a solo press release by your affiliated institution.
・Press release formats are either a lecture announcement by the researcher(s) or an announcement
by handing out written material only.
・Please create press releases that can be readily understood by the media and general public.
・When you receive an interview separately regarding a CREST Research Project from the press, etc.
(not confined to a press conference), please inform the JST personnel.(Complete the requisite details on the Interview Notification Form and contact the personnel in charge of this
matter at JST.)
http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/manual/index.html (in Japanese)
When a significant research result is obtained, press releases can be made with the approval
of the Research Supervisor
□Publishing Research Papers, Oral Presentations
□Intellectual Property Rights
□Symposiums, Workshops, etc.
■ JST encourages active report of the research results both domestically and internationally.
■ The reports will be an index of interim and post-completion evaluations.
□ Research Reports
□ Press Releases, etc.
□ Other Outreach Activities
There are a total of 33 news media in the MEXT press club!
Kyodo News Service, Nikkei, Asahi Shimbun, Mainichi Shimbun, Yomiuri Shimbun,
Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun, NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) … etc.
(However, where it will be announced depends on the contents and release method.)
The support or co-hosting of JST for an event requires
procedures to be completed in advance
・ In order to use JST’s name in a JST supported or co-hosted event, you need to follow certain
procedures.
・ Please send a letter or request with specifications about the event under your immediate manager’s
name to the Director, Department of Innovation Research and send it to the JST personnel (the
person to whom it should be addressed may differ according to the format of support you are
receiving so please send it first of all to the personnel in charge of this matter at JST).
・ If you need to use the JST and/or CREST logo marks, please consult the personnel in charge of this
matter at JST.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 23
The Cabinet’s “Expert Panel on Open Science, based on Global Perspectives” published its
report entitled “Promoting Open Science in Japan” in March 2015. The report compiles the
Cabinet’s basic stance and policy on open science. The report stipulates that governmental
ministries and agencies, institutions distributing funds, universities and research institutions
and so on will formulate guidelines and action plans for implementation of open science.
Moreover, the Fifth Science and Technology Basic Plan approved in January 2016 by the
Cabinet, states that publicly funded research results will be utilized to their absolute maximum
and that this will be Japan’s basic stance on open science promotion.
Based on this trend, JST published in April 2017 the JST Policy on Open Access to Research
Publications and Research Data Management. This policy stipulates JST’s specific philosophy
regarding providing open access to scientific papers arising from the research and the storage,
management and publicizing of research data.
With regard to research results (papers) obtained through the CREST projects, it is
recommended that in principle they are made public through institutional repositories and
publications presupposing open access.
Researchers who have been selected as researchers for the new research areas decided upon
from FY2016 onwards are requested to create data management plans detailing their plan and
policy for the storage, management, publicizing or non-publicity of research data arising as
research results, and submit these plans and policies along with their Research Plans to JST.
Furthermore, they are requested to store, manage and implement the publicizing of research
data in line with these data management plans.
See below for further details.
○ JST Policy on Open Access to Research Publications and Research Data Management:
http://www.jst.go.jp/EN/about/openscience/index.html
○ Data Management Policy for Strategic Basic Research Programs
https://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/en/manual/data_houshin_en.pdf
Please ensure open access to your research results (papers).
11. Handling of research results
‒ Open access to research papers and data management ‒
Please create and implement a data management plan.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 24
11. Handling of research results
‒ Intellectual property rights ‒
■ Various application and report obligations of research institutions to JST
When applying, filing, transferring, registering, licensing or renouncing patents to a
Third Party, prior application or reporting from affiliated institutions to JST is necessary.
For details, refer to the following Instructions:
http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/index2.html (in Japanese)
■ Utilizing JST’s academic-industry collaboration and technology transfer-
related system
・ Other than CREST, which is related to “creating new technology,” JST operates
competitive funding to promote the various support systems for technology transfer and
ensuring the research results are made use of in society, related to the commercialization
of new technology. (Examples are shown below.)
We have high hopes that the research results acquired through CREST will lead to such
practical use by utilizing such systems.
・ Programs to Promote the Utilization of University IP (Patent Acquisition Support) :
Support will be given for the costs of applying for overseas patents with the university as
the patent holder in the case of university patent applications in which there is a good
chance that ensuring the university retains the patent will lead to future technological
transfers and patent usage.
https://www.jst.go.jp/chizai/about.html
・Adoptable and Seamless Technology Transfer Program through Target-driven R&D
(A-STEP): Support system for technology transfer for a broad R&D phase, born from
research results in university and public research institutions, aiming at practical use.
http://www.jst.go.jp/tt/
The intellectual property rights of patents, etc., shall, in accordance with Contract ResearchAgreement terms, basically reside with the research institutions of the inventor. Theacquisition and utilization of intellectual property rights are to be conducted appropriately bythe research institution while reporting the status to JST.
NB: Patent attorney fees and patent application fees can be deducted from the overhead
(indirect) costs of the contracted research fee.
NB: However, if the research institute decides not to patent the research, then JST has the
right to do so. (Since considering whether to apply for a patent and necessary preparations
take a considerable amount of time, please inform JST as soon as your institution decides
not to do so.)
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 25
11. Handling of research results
‒ Research Reports ‒
The research report will be the basis of materials when the Research Supervisor needs to
understand the progress of the research, and make evaluations.
1. Research result data
Please cooperate if you are requested to report the numbers of submitted research papers,
oral presentations, patent applications, etc., during the middle of the fiscal year in a
designated format.
2. Research Implementation Report
At approximately the end of each fiscal year, you are requested to prepare a Research
Implementation Report that the Research Supervisor reviews. Major parts of this report
will be compiled as an Annual Report and made available to the general public on JST’s
website, etc.
3. Interim Research Implementation Report
Approximately three years after the research commences, an interim evaluation will take
place. You are requested to prepare the Interim Research Report, which will be the basis of
materials for the interim evaluation.
4. Post-completion Research Report
This should be prepared when the Research Project ends. It will include all research results
together with the purpose of revealing the possible spillover effects expected in the future.
It will be the basic material for the post-completion evaluation of the Research Project.
The contents of this report will be made publicly available on JST’s website, etc.
In preparing the four reports mentioned above, the Research Director must prepare a
compiled version of whole Research Team.
The Annual Reports and post-completion Reports prepared to date and open to the public
are available at the following URLs:
For Annual Reports: http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/research/nenpou/index.html (in
Japanese)
For Post-completion Reports: http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/research/s-
houkoku/index.html (in Japanese)
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 26
12. Research evaluation
‒ Evaluation of the Research Projects and Research Areas ‒
Project Evaluations are evaluations of the Research Projects (where the Research Directors are
the object of evaluation).
Research Area Evaluations are evaluations of the Research Areas (where the Research
Supervisors are the object of evaluation).
■ Project evaluation: Pre-commencement, interim, and post-completion
evaluation
The pre-commencement (project selection), interim, and post-completion evaluations
will be made for each project and performed by the Research Supervisor enlisting the
cooperation of Research Area Advisors and other outside evaluators.
Interim evaluation
・ In cases in which the research term is five-and-a-half years, an interim evaluation will be
performed approximately three years after commencing the project. For projects less
than five years in duration, an interim evaluation may be performed based on the policy
of the Research Supervisor.
・ The state of research progress and results for each project should be grasped. Based on
the results, the project will be subject to appropriate resource reallocations and Research
Plan revisions, etc. Depending on the results of the evaluation, increases or decreases in
research budgets or changes in the Research Team structure will be made according to
necessity. On occasion, there may be cases in which a Research Project is terminated at
an early stage.
Post-completion evaluation
・A post-completion evaluation will be performed in the final FY of the research. The
implementation state of the research, research results, and disseminating effects should
be disclosed and aimed at contributing to the improvement of future research
developments and administration.
・Evaluations will be conducted on the state of research results such as: outside
announcements, patents, acquisition of new knowledge, and how the acquired research
results contribute to science and technology.
■ Research area evaluation: Pre-commencement, interim, and post-completion
evaluation
Outside experts selected by JST will evaluate the Research Area focusing on how the
Strategic Objectives were achieved and how the Research Supervisor conducted the
research management.
■ Past project evaluations and Research Area evaluations are open to the
public on JST’s homepage
The evaluation results published thus far can be seen at the following website:
http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/evaluation/index.html (in Japanese)
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 27
13. Points to be aware of in implementing the
research and other matters
■ Reporting accidentsShould any accident occur in the course of the contracted research or any researcher be injured
in the accident, please notify JST in writing immediately.
■ Measures on bioethics and safety assurance Regarding research in life science,
please observe the laws, ministerial ordinances, and ethical guidelines, etc. Refer
to URL:
Refer to URL: http://www.lifescience.mext.go.jp/bioethics/index.html (in Japanese)
■Handling consent/cooperation of other parties necessary for the projectIn the case that, in implementing a research initiative, research requiring the
consent/cooperation of other parties and research requiring special care in handling personal
information is involved, be sure to carry out the necessary procedures to protect civil rights
and interests.
■ Security export control (Measures against the leakage of technology
internationally)
To ensure that the results of cutting-edge research do not fall into the wrong hands of
developers of weapons of mass destruction or terrorist groups or people who might divert the
usage for militant purposes, please observe the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act
(Foreign Exchange Act) and other laws, ministerial ordinances, and notices issued by
government ministries and agencies.
Refer to URL: http://www.meti.go.jp/policy/anpo/englishpage.html
■ Research activities abroad and access to biological genetic resourcesWhen conducting research activities in the field abroad or international joint research, please
confirm and observe the related laws of that country beforehand. Also, in the event of a
transfer of biological genetic resources or other research materials, please conclude a
Material Transfer Agreement (MTA).
■ Information may be provided to the Cabinet Office through the Cross-
ministerial R&D Management System (e-Rad)
Through the e-Rad system that MEXT administers and operates, there may be cases where
we need to provide information to the Cabinet Office. In such cases, we may need to ask for
your cooperation in the preparation of such information, which may include entering the
amount of settlement, the information on results (publication of papers etc.), and so on.
■ Proactive participation and activities of young researchers
Research Directors and Lead Joint Researchers must realize that they bear a huge
responsibility to the future of young researchers who participate or become employed by
CREST. They will be asked to consider the post-completion careers of young researchers and
cooperate in supporting their various careers so that the young researchers may use their
expertise widely in the industryacademia-government area.
CREST Guide (August 2018 version) 28
13. Points to be aware of in implementing the
research and other matters
■ Regarding the effective use of currently available research facilities and equipment
In a document issued in November 2015 entitled “Regarding the Introduction of a Joint Use System for
New Research Facilities and Equipment that Integrates Research Organizations’ Management” the
Council for Science and Technology’s Technology and Research Foundations Section demanded the
operation at universities and national research institutions of an organization-level joint use system for
research facilities and equipment. Furthermore, on June 24, 2015, MEXT’s Review Committee on Reform
of Competitive Research Funding stated in a document entitled “Regarding the Reform of Competitive
Funding towards the Sustainable Creation of Research Results (interim report)” that it would be
“appropriate in principle to share large facilities and equipment purchased with competitive funds.” See
below for further details (in Japanese).
Refer to URL: http://www.mext.go.jp/b_menu/shingi/gijyutu/gijyutu17/houkoku/1366220.htm
Refer to URL: http://www.mext.go.jp/b_menu/shingi/chousa/shinkou/039/gaiyou/1359306.htm
■ Dialogue with citizens on science and technology
Researchers are asked to actively engage in “Dialogue with Citizens on Science and Technology” and
explain in their own words the purpose, contents, and research results of their Research Projects to
promote citizen understanding.
Refer to URL: http://www8.cao.go.jp/cstp/output/20100619taiwa.pdf (in Japanese)
■ Registration on researchmap
About 268,000 researchers (as of July 2018) have registered on “researchmap,” which is a comprehensive
guide to Japanese researchers. You can easily register your achievements by uploading them from outside
databases. The registered achievements can be used when applying for competitive funds through eRad. It
will also be useful in the public access to your achievement information, so we recommend registering.
Refer to URL: http://researchmap.jp/?lang=english
■ Using JREC-IN Portal
You can use JREC-IN Portal when soliciting for research staff (post-doctoral fellows, researchers, etc.)
who have highly sophisticated knowledge.
Refer to URL: https://jrecin.jst.go.jp/seek/SeekTop?ln=1
■ Using the service of the National Bioscience Database Center (NBDC)
Please register your research data with the following services provided by the NBDC to enhance the
presence of your research results and let people quote them in the future.
○ Life Science Database Archive (https://dbarchive.biosciencedbc.jp/)
This archive lists data sets from the field of life science free of charge and makes them available without
any limitations on period. When they accept data, the researchers of the NBDC help you organize your
data so that there will be greater access it.
○ NBDC Human Database (https://humandbs.biosciencedbc.jp/en/)
This database is a repository of nucleotide sequence data, mutation data, gene expression data, epigenome
data, etc. from human-derived specimens. You can acquire an accession number for registering your
papers.
Contact information: nbdc-kikaku@jst.go.jp
CREST Guide (August 2018 version)
【 For inquiries 】Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST)
Department of Innovation Research E-mail : crest@jst.go.jp
TEL:03-3512-3531 / FAX:03-3222-2066
You can confirm the latest CREST Guide and Research Plan Forms
and Research Implementation Report Forms at the following URL:
http://www.jst.go.jp/kisoken/crest/en/manual/index.html
Administrative Points to be Aware of or when executing research
funds can be found in the Instructions for administrative procedures at
the following URL:
http://www.jst.go.jp/contract/index2.html (in Japanese)
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