The Fusion Oriented REsearch for disruptive Science and Technology (FOREST) Program, launched by Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), aims to foster emergent research with the potential to drive groundbreaking innovation. Rather than prescribing specific issues to address or short-term goals, FOREST encourages diverse, interdisciplinary research that transcends existing frameworks. This program provides long-term support, typically spanning seven years (extendable up to 10 years with an interim stage-gate review), and establishes an environment in which researchers can fully dedicate themselves to ambitious, unrestricted, and fusion-oriented exploration.
Chiba University is undertaking various initiatives to support these emerging FOREST researchers.