MINERVA in-house research scheme

MINERVA is a 6-month in-house research scheme in Japan, designed to support its research and policy analysis of EU-Japan economic and industrial issues. Video and more information here. 

Here are the experts of this year’s Minerva and their research subjects:

Imanishi Mayu: circular economy in fashion and textile industry

“After receiving a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, I have worked at IBM for twelve years as a system engineer and strategy consultant. In 2006, I have also participated in the “Vulcanus in Europe” programme, working on environmental impact assessments in the United Kingdoms. Two years ago, I have decided to leave IBM and start my own environment-related business. With a keen interest in green economy & environment, my research project will target the topic “Circulating the Japanese Fashion & Textile Economy”. My research would firstly examine the current situation in Japan through desk research and expert interviews. Secondly, it would provide an analysis of the characteristics of the Japanese market in comparison with Europe. As a result, I will present where the Japanese Circular Economy in fashion and textile industry should be headed. Finally, I will suggest opportunities for European SMEs to develop their business in Japan, and how EU and Japanese SMEs can collaborate with each other.”

Sven Kevin van Langen: global supply chains

 “I will be joining the MINERVA programme from October 2022. After working in various fields, from new digital technologies to environmental/sustainable development, I have especially been focused on the topic of sustainable finance over the past few years. This made me interested in the research topic: “Making Global Supply Chains More Resilient and Sustainable”. In order to achieve a resilient global supply chain, I strongly believe that sustainability would significantly aid Japanese and European firms to cooperate, stay competitive, and help create a greener and more just world.”

Fabien Mizart: automotive industry

 “As a graduate school student and researcher in the field of environmental sciences and energy, I gained exposure to researching on the   topics of environmental transition, mobility, green energies, and Japanese regulated markets. Having professional working experience with   the biggest French bank BNP, automotive actors including Nissan, Toyota and Mitsubishi, and also three years at one of the largest   international automotive manufacturers Faurecia, I am highly motivated to conduct the research on “The Automotive Industry in the Face of   Environmental, Social and Economic Challenges.” My main objective is to identify the scope of the EU-Japan potential cooperation to achieve   a better technology regulation in the automotive industry.‘’