Kyoto University launched the On-site Laboratory initiative in September 2018 as part of its strategy under the Ministry of Education's Designated National University (DNU) program. Through the initiative, academic departments and centers at Kyoto University establish laboratories in collaboration with overseas partners, which are hosted on the campuses of either or both of the participating institutions and are locally managed.

The laboratories are tasked with conducting world-leading advanced research, developing quality human capital, recruiting talented international students, and expanding collaboration with industrial partners. Through these efforts, Kyoto University aims to strengthen its institutional infrastructure with a view to playing a greater role in international academia, as well as further contributing to Japan's development and innovation.

Eleven on-site laboratories have been established to date. The laboratories’ promotion of new international research collaboration and collaboration with industry has a positive ripple effect on the university’s education efforts, including the launch of new double degree programs with partner universities.

For details of the Kyoto University's On-site Laboratories, visit: https://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/about/operation/designated/on-site-laboratories