Representatives from NAIST's Division of Materials Science visited three leading Malaysian universities in June 2026 to strengthen academic partnerships, introduce graduate study opportunities at NAIST, and explore opportunities for collaborative research in advanced materials and semiconductor-related fields. The visit included engagements with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), University of Malaya (UM), and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
At USM's Institute of Nano Optoelectronics Research and Technology (INOR), discussions focused on potential collaborations in semiconductor materials, photonics, device fabrication, and characterisation. Faculty members and students also expressed strong interest in opportunities for research internships, student exchanges, and participation in NAIST international programmes.
At the University of Malaya, meetings were held with the Faculty of Science leadership to discuss doctoral student recruitment, internship opportunities, double-degree programmes, and co-supervision initiatives. The university also expressed interest in participating in NAIST's international education programmes and expanding future research collaborations.
The delegation additionally delivered research and recruitment seminars to faculty members and students, introducing research opportunities at NAIST and providing information on graduate study pathways and scholarship opportunities. Active discussions were held on topics ranging from semiconductor materials and photovoltaics to quantum optics and advanced characterisation techniques.
The final visit was conducted at the Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. Discussions identified numerous areas of complementary expertise, including microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip technologies, flexible electronics, organic semiconductors, and nanophotonics. During the visit, representatives of NAIST and UKM IMEN formally signed a Letter of Intent (LOI), establishing a framework for future academic cooperation and research collaboration.
The visits highlighted strong interest among Malaysian universities in research collaboration, student exchange opportunities, and graduate study at NAIST. Through continued engagement with partner institutions across Southeast Asia, NAIST aims to further strengthen academic networks and create new opportunities for collaborative research and talent development.
