TOMODACHI-Dow Women’s STEM Leadership and Research Program 2025-2026 Launches Online Sessions with 10 New Participants

The TOMODACHI-Dow Women’s STEM Leadership and Research Program 2025–2026 has launched with the participation of 10 newly selected students. 

This program offers a five-week research internship for 10 female undergraduate students majoring in STEM at universities in Japan. Its goal is to advance educational equity while further narrowing the gender gap in STEM fields in Japan. Implemented and hosted by Rice University in Texas, the program places participants in university research laboratories, where they gain hands-on exposure to cutting-edge research and the U.S. higher education system. Through collaboration and exchange with American students, as well as opportunities for career exploration, participants also deepen their understanding of the English language and U.S. culture.

Since November, participants have been taking part in online sessions where they learn foundational academic communication and presentation skills required for studying and conducting research in U.S. university settings. Led by Rice University faculty members and student leaders, these sessions are designed to prepare students for their upcoming research internships. Through peer learning with fellow STEM students, small-group discussions, and interactive online activities, participants develop practical skills not only for research, but also for proactive learning and effective engagement in cross-cultural settings.

One of the participants, Fu Kuroda, shared her expectations for the program:
“I am looking forward to engaging with people who have diverse values through daily life and campus experiences in the United States. Through my experience at Rice University, I hope to gain new perspectives on the integration of AI and healthcare and further deepen my research interests. I also believe that women’s perspectives in STEM are essential for bringing diversity to research and society. Beyond technological innovation, I aspire to pursue the development of medical AI that emphasizes fairness and universal accessibility – technology that everyone can use with confidence.”

Following the online sessions and orientation, participants will travel to Houston, Texas, in February 2026 to begin their on-site research internships at Rice University. In addition to research activities, the program includes seminars, cultural learning opportunities, and visits to institutions such as NASA, as well as a special visit to Dow’s Houston office, providing students with a broad and immersive learning experience.