Indonesia-Japan Opens PhD Scholarship Opportunities for Mercury Research

RRI.CO.ID, South Tangerang – The research collaboration between the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and the Prefectural University of Kumamoto (PUK), Japan, extends beyond the exchange of technical data to serve as a platform to strengthen Indonesia’s human resources capacity. Through financial support from the Kumamoto Prefectural Government, Indonesian researchers can now access doctoral (PhD) education specifically focused on mercury research.

This support was highlighted by Prof. Tetsuro Agusa from PUK. He revealed that the Kumamoto Prefectural Government provides financial assistance for PhD students to conduct in-depth research on mercury, the results as presented at a mercury pollution dissemination event in South Tangerang on Monday, 23 February 2026.

"Our prefecture gives financial support, I mean the scholarship, for PhD students to study on mercury. So, today, all speakers are PhD students who are supported by this scholarship," said Prof. Tetsuro.

Furthermore, he invited Indonesian researchers to take advantage of this opportunity to deepen their expertise in Japan.“If you have an interest in our study related to mercury, in the future, please come to Japan to continue your studies," he added.

The Acting Head of the Energy and Manufacturing Research Organization at BRIN, Hens Saputra, expressed his appreciation and pride regarding the active involvement of Indonesian researchers in this program. According to him, the presence of researchers who are currently or have already completed their studies in Japan is a vital asset for Indonesia in addressing mercury pollution through a scientific approach.

"We are proud that this collaboration is supported by BRIN researchers who are currently pursuing or have completed their PhD education at the Prefectural University of Kumamoto through scholarships specifically related to mercury," stated Hens.