The importance of semiconductors is increasingly becoming apparent worldwide due to the emergence of generative AI, the progress of digital transformation (DX), and the need for economic security highlighted by the global supply and demand crunch. In Japan, national policies support the establishment of domestic production bases and research and development in semiconductors. Here in Hokkaido, Rapidus Corporation is actively working toward the mass production of cutting-edge logic semiconductors. In response, efforts to establish a semiconductor industry in Hokkaido are proceeding at an unprecedented pace.

As this development is seen as one of the most significant opportunities for advancement for Hokkaido University since its founding, in October 2023, we established the “Office for Promotion of Semiconductor Hub Formation.” Since then, we have been working to establish a center for semiconductor education and research at Hokkaido University.

In April 2025, we decided to reorganize the“Office for Promotion of Semiconductor Hub Formation,” and in its place, the “Institute for Frontier Education and Research on Semiconductors” was established.

As the headquarters for promoting semiconductor education and research at Hokkaido University, the “Institute for Frontier Education and Research on Semiconductors” designs university-wide policies and oversees the effective integration of educational and research resources. It also strives to strengthen collaborative ties with external organizations and enhance industrial policies by improving educational and research infrastructure and applications. Through these efforts, it supports the development of sustainable human resources and advances in research while revitalizing local communities in Japan and Hokkaido.

Hokkaido University traces its origins back to the Sapporo Agricultural College, established in 1876. Its establishment coincided with the Meiji government’s desire to train valuable human resources and develop agricultural technology in cold climates.

At present, efforts are underway here in Hokkaido for the mass production of state-of-the-art semiconductors, driven by new national policies. As we look to the future, we are reminded of the words of Dr. William Clark, the first vice president of Sapporo Agricultural College, who famously urged his students to “be ambitious!” Embracing this spirit, Hokkaido University views its mission to develop human resources and enhance research capabilities in the semiconductor field as its “Second Ambitious Challenge.” As our 150th anniversary approaches in 2026, we remain committed to this mission.

Junji Yamaguchi
Executive Director, Institute for Frontier Education and Research on Semiconductors
Chief Executive Vice President
Hokkaido University

Organization

The following offices will be established under the leadership of the Executive Director: the Semiconductor Education R&D Strategy Office and the General Strategy Office.  Additionally, the following five departments will be created and integrated in accordance with the key elements necessary for the development and utilization of semiconductors: the Semiconductor Materials Smart Creation Division, the Next Generation Process Pioneering Division, the Next Generation Device Creation Division, the Semiconductor Functional Analysis Division, and the Next Generation Applied Systems Creation Division.