NIBIO and Japan explore future research collaboration in circular bioeconomy

The delegation learned about NIBIO’s research in genetic resource management, sustainable resource use, and circular bioeconomy solutions. The exchange offered insights into Norwegian approaches to managing natural resources and sustainable agriculture, complementing Japan’s advanced agricultural technology and research capabilities.

Aligning interests

The visit took place in December 2025, marking the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Norway and Japan — a milestone that underscores Japan’s early recognition of Norway as an independent state.

The interest to establish Norway–Japan research collaboration has grown in recent years. This trend may strengthen further as Japan explores closer engagement with EU research programmes, reflecting the increasing importance of international scientific cooperation in addressing global challenges.

“Japan is currently not an associated country to Horizon Europe, but discussions and expectations regarding closer cooperation with the EU research framework are ongoing,” explained Dr. Lu Feng, Research Scientist at NIBIO.

Dr. Feng noted that NODAI is a promising research partner for NIBIO due to overlapping interests:

“Tokyo University of Agriculture has research interests and institutional roles that align well with those of NIBIO, particularly in agriculture, bioresources, and sustainability,” he said.

He also highlighted existing connections, having previously collaborated with Associate Professor Mami Irie of NODAI during her one-year research stay in Aarhus University, Denmark. Since last year, efforts have been made to re-establish and strengthen collaboration, including a visit to NODAI by NIBIO research scientist Dr. Ikumi Umetani in 2024, further reinforcing institutional links.

Seminar highlights future research areas

During the visit, Dr. Thiago Inagaki, Dr. Lu Feng, and Dr. Ikumi Umetani led a scientific seminar on circular agri-biotech, presenting ongoing research projects and exploring potential collaboration areas. Thomas Hartnik, Director of NIBIO’s Division of Environment and Natural Resources, provided an overview of NIBIO’s work and highlighted possible joint research themes, including circular bioeconomy, climate-smart agriculture, and climate adaptation.

The seminar also drew attention from the Japanese Embassy in Norway, which plans to follow up on next steps, including the potential formalisation of a collaboration agreement. The Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Hajime Matsumura, and Second Secretary, Ms. Miyuki Hamada, participated in the seminar in person.

Exploring research facilities

The Japanese delegation visited several NIBIO research facilities showcasing expertise in sustainable agriculture and circular bioeconomy.

“The visit began with genetic resource management at the Norwegian Genetic Resources Centre, including the National Clone Bank for potatoes,” Dr. Feng explained.

“This also allowed for exchanges with NODAI researchers responsible for rice genetic resources in Japan.”

The delegation also visited the Vollebekk Laboratory for biogas and microalgae in Ås, where NIBIO researchers showcased innovative methods for waste treatment, biogas production, and nutrient recovery using microalgae.

“These approaches are particularly relevant to Japan, which relies heavily on imported fertilisers and still incinerates a large portion of its waste. The laboratory visit provided insights into converting organic waste into energy and recycled nutrients, highlighting solutions that could be adapted to Japanese conditions,” he said.

The visit concluded at The Magic Factory in Tønsberg, a Norwegian centre for innovation in circular bioeconomy, where delegates learned about Norwegian practices in waste sorting and resource management, integrating research, innovation, and practical applications.

First Step

During the visit, Ivar Horneland Kristensen, Director General of NIBIO, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of NIBIO.

“The MoU is expected to be fully finalised in January 2026, following internal approval procedures at NODAI. I have also been invited to visit NODAI June 2026,” said Dr. Feng. He added that NIBIO and NODAI have also agreed to receive guest students from Japan starting next year as part of NODAI’s international students exchange plan.

He noted that future collaboration will focus on waste treatment, circular bioeconomy, and related research topics.

“NODAI has also expressed strong interest in PhD student exchanges, and there is potential to include NODAI as a partner in future applications to the Norwegian Research Council or Horizon Europe, subject to eligibility and programme conditions,” Dr. Feng concluded.

He added that NIBIO received very positive feedback from Associate Professor Mami Irie following her visit, describing the stay as highly rewarding: “I can say that it was a very fruitful time, more than I expected,” Irie said.