TRAINING OF PHD STUDENTS AT MEDICAL UNIVERSITIES IN JAPAN

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the training of PhD students at medical universities in Japan, examining the multifaceted components that underpin its success and identifying emerging challenges.Japan’s doctoral education system in medicine is characterized by a rigorous curriculum that integrates advanced coursework with clinical exposure and independent research. Emphasis is placed on multidisciplinary training, including subjects such as biostatistics, medical ethics, and scientific communication, which collectively prepare candidates for careers in translational medicine. Supervision models are notably robust, employing a dual mentorship approach that combines academic and professional guidance. This structure is further supported by the use of Individual Development Plans (IDPs), which enable personalized academic progression and timely degree completion.Financial and infrastructural support is another pillar of the system, with generous fellowships from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and access to world-class research facilities.Internationalisation is actively pursued through joint degrees, overseas research placements, and English- taught programmes that promote global engagement. Despite these strengths, key challenges persist, including the tension between clinical and academic responsibilities, competitive publication expectations, and the need for greater diversity and mental health support among doctoral candidates.The article also contrasts Japan’s system with the less structured and less resourced PhD training landscape in Ukraine, offering comparative insights that may inform international education reform. The study concludes with recommendations for future research, including longitudinal studies on career outcomes and the integration of emerging technologies into doctoral training. Overall, Japan’s model exemplifies a forward-looking and globally competitive approach to medical doctoral education.