Semiconductors constitute the core technology that underpins the dramatic advancement of generative AI and the deepening of digital transformation. They form an essential foundation for realizing a super-smart society (Society 5.0). Moreover, amid rapid shifts in global supply–demand structures and an increasingly complex economic security environment, the strategic significance of semiconductors has risen to an unprecedented level. In Japan, ambitious national initiatives are now being deployed to integrate cutting-edge research and development, strengthen domestic manufacturing, and foster highly skilled talent.

Against this backdrop, Hokkaido is witnessing remarkable progress toward the concentration and sophistication of the semiconductor industry, centered on Rapidus Corporation’s bold challenge to achieve mass production of state-of-the-art logic semiconductors. The semiconductor sector encompasses an exceptionally broad industrial ecosystem—stretching from materials and equipment to design, fabrication, and system-level applications. Its development not only stimulates regional economic growth but also serves as a critical driving force for revitalizing and reinforcing Japan’s overall industrial competitiveness.

Hokkaido University views this historic turning point as an extraordinary opportunity for advancement, perhaps the greatest since our founding. In October 2023, we established the Headquarters for Semiconductor Innovation to strengthen our university-wide foundation. Building on this progress, in April 2025 we inaugurated the Institute for Semiconductor Frontier Research and Education (IFERS). As the core hub for semiconductor-related activities at the university, the Institute is responsible for formulating and executing university-wide strategies, integrating educational and research resources, and enhancing collaboration with domestic and international universities, research institutes, and industry. Through these efforts, we aim to generate world-class research and cultivate advanced professionals capable of leading the global field.

The mission of a university is to create knowledge that supports the sustainable development of society and to nurture the individuals who will shape its future. In the semiconductor field, universities play a vital role in fostering scholarship and talent across the entire spectrum—from fundamental science to applications and social implementation—with a long-term, comprehensive perspective. Hokkaido University will leverage its robust research capabilities in science and engineering, alongside its tradition of cross-disciplinary education, to pioneer cutting-edge research and continuously provide outstanding human resources to society.

Since its founding as Sapporo Agricultural College in 1876, our university has embraced a “Frontier Spirit,” engaging with the unique characteristics of Hokkaido to create new value for Japan’s modernization. Today, an ambitious initiative is underway to build a world-leading semiconductor industry here in Hokkaido. As Hokkaido University celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2026, we reaffirm the enduring spirit of our first vice principal, Dr. William Smith Clark—“Be ambitious!” We position our current semiconductor initiatives as our “Second Ambitious Challenge.” With a strong sense of mission and pride, we are committed to contribute proactively to the future of our region, our nation and the world.

Koichiro Ishimori

Executive Director, Institute for Frontier Education and Research on Semiconductors

Vice President, Hokkaido University

Organization

The following offices will be established under the leadership of the Executive Director: the Semiconductor R&D Strategy Office , the Semiconductor Education Design Office , the Semiconductor Prototyping Lab Operations Office , and the General Affairs 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.