"JSPS External Review Report" was issued.(PDF File 1.22MB)

JSPS organization and mechanisms need to be further improved.Individual programsIndividual programs should be operated on an open application basis,while building in the room for a flexible response to international andother needs. Application procedures and research terms should be mademore flexible, working to implement programs in line with researcherdemands. Work should be rationalized and made more efficient through,for example, greater use of computers. University-industry cooperativeresearch programs should be expanded and improved. Activities at JSPSliaison offices should be actively developed and greater efforts made atinformation provision.In November 2001, the Cabinet adopted the National Guidelines on theMethod of Evaluation for Government R&D. Evaluations based on theseguidelines will be implemented to promote the efficiency and effectiveness ofoutstanding R&D, including R&D of a high international standard, R&Dcontributing to the socioeconomy, and R&D breaking open new academicfields. Evaluations shall have the following significance.(a) To engage in appropriate and fair evaluations to create a flexible,competitive and open R&D environment in which the creativity ofresearchers will be given maximum play.(b) To actively announce evaluation results and inform society ofoutstanding R&D to fulfill the obligation of accountability to the public inrecognition of the national funds being injected into R&D, earning theunderstanding and support of the wider public.(c) To conduct rigorous evaluations and reflect results in the focused andefficient distribution of funds, personnel and other resources.The National Guidelines on the Method of Evaluation for Government R&Dare applied to all aspects of R&D conducted using national funds, including(1) Enforcement of R&D Policy, (2) R&D projects, (3) R&D institutions, and(4) results of individual researchers. The guidelines apply to the programs ofJSPS, which are implemented by government R&D funding.126