IMC Krems expands its network in Japan

The network is expanding through new and deepened partnerships with the following prestigious universities:

• Osaka University of Commerce:The foundation of this collaboration is the long-standing friendship between IMC founder Heinz Boyer and university president Ichiro Tanioka. A cooperation agreement with the Tanioka Group (including Kobe Design University) focusing on student exchange and tourism programmes will be finalised in August 2025 in Krems.
• Kansai University: As Osaka’s largest private university, Kansai University is planning to include IMC Krems as the first Austrian institution in its renowned global network. Cooperation will begin in key fields such as business, health, and life sciences.
• Kyoto University of Advanced Science (KUAS):This newly established, practice-oriented university in Kyoto was founded by prominent entrepreneur Shigenobu Nagamori (founder of Nidec), whose vision strongly shapes the institution. KUAS will launch an English-language practice-based degree programme this autumn and has expressed a desire to benefit from IMC Krems' comprehensive expertise in applied, international education. The initiative for cooperation originally came from Austrian professor Parissa Haghirian, who teaches at KUAS.
• Nihon University:Strengthening the existing successful partnership with Nihon University, Japan’s largest private university, was a key highlight of the trip and felt like meeting with friends. IMC Krems will now deepen cooperation, particularly in tourism and biosciences. The clear aim: to expand collaboration in future-oriented fields.
• University of Tokyo:During a visit to the University of Tokyo, a meeting was held with Professor Mogi from the Center of Future Science and Technology for Saudi-Japan Vision 2030 and Professor Franz Renz from Leibniz University Hannover. The three institutions agreed to intensify international collaboration in chemistry and life sciences. The goal is to jointly tackle major societal challenges in medicine, energy, and other relevant fields.

Founder and Chairman of the IMC Krems Supervisory Board, Heinz Boyer, reflects: "After years of committed efforts to build international networks, it is a special feeling to see these initiatives now bearing fruit—especially in Japan—offering real prospects for our students.”

Udo Brändle, CEO of IMC Krems, adds:
“These decisive steps consolidate the global network of IMC Krems and sustainably strengthen the academic and scientific ties between Lower Austria and Japan.”

Ulrike Prommer, CEO of IMC Krems, highlights:
“A key quality factor for excellent teaching and research lies in cooperation with top international universities. At IMC Krems, we are pioneers in this area and are constantly striving to expand our network with leading global institutions. The current visit to Japan is a prime example of this strategy.”