The JST Policy on Open Access to Research Publications and Research Data Management aims to ensure that research outputs from JST-funded projects are made publicly accessible, thereby advancing science and technology in line with Open Science principles. Researchers are required to deposit peer-reviewed manuscripts in institutional repositories upon acceptance, following the Immediate Deposit/Optional Access (ID/OA) model, with open access mandated within 12 months of publication. The policy also emphasizes the open management of research data, encouraging adherence to the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles. While open access is the default, the policy adopts a balanced approach by allowing for limited access in cases involving ethical, legal, or security concerns—such as sensitive personal data, confidential business information, or national security risks. Researchers must submit Data Management Plans (DMPs) that outline how data will be managed, shared, and, where necessary, restricted, with clear justification. The policy supports compliance with domestic and international laws, including data protection and intellectual property regulations, and enables controlled access through secure repositories or agreements to ensure data remains accessible to authorized users under appropriate safeguards.
Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) Policy on Open Access to Research Publications and Research Data Management
Abstract
Country | Japan |
Start date | 2022 |
Annual Budget | n/a |
Responsible organisation(s) | Government agency |
Target group(s) | Researchers and research institutions receiving JST funding |
Policy instrument type | Institutional Policy documentp |
The JST Policy was first adopted in 2017 and updated in 2022 to reflect national and international Open Science trends, aiming to encourage and facilitate the adoption of Open Science practices, including Open Access (OA) and Open Research Data (ORD), across the nation. In line with this policy, the Japan Open Science Cloud (J-OSC) initiative is a national platform for sharing and managing research data. JST provides guidelines and support to researchers for implementing Open Science practices, including assistance with data management and publication.
To ensure that research publications resulting from JST-funded projects are made publicly accessible, thereby promoting the advancement of science and technology. To promote open access to research data while recognizing the need for flexibility by incorporating specific guidelines for limited access
To ensure that research data management aligns with the principles of open science without compromising legal, ethical, or security obligations.
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