The Techno Center is mainly responsible for designing/ fabricating and repairing research/laboratory equipment for Faculty of Science and Technology laboratories, providing guidance in experiments and practical training, and supporting students in designing/drawing courses. As a facility unique to Sophia University, the Techno Center was first established as a“machine factory”at the same time that the Faculty of Science and Technology was founded, but has developed vastly that today, it can not only process machinery but also design new equipment and systems. With its 40-plus pieces of state- of-the-art equipment, including machine tools for numerical control, most of the research/laboratory equipment used in the university can be fabricated independently in-house, enabling the development of cutting-edge research equipment while improving specifications to the satisfaction of students and faculty members who order the fabrication. In addition, technical personnel with a high level of expertise and excellent skills in machining and design technologies extend enthusiastic support to students in terms of education and research.

When it comes to mathematics, the Mathematics Library houses a wide array of materials ranging from those in science and engineering and programming to theories on insurance, finance, or management engineering. Not only highly technical books on mathematics but also exercise drills or reading materials for novices are available; it boasts of one of the largest numbers of books as a mathematics library among Japanese private universities. In recent years, it has focused on collecting materials in the electronic format as well. The return date is set according to the period of classes for students at the Faculty of Science and Technology, and students can borrow books for a period of up to six months. Sophiawifi is available inside the library, and students can also study there by themselves.

In the field of chemistry, a wide array of analytical instruments is available for students to investigate various properties of materials. All instruments are managed by the technical staff who have specialized knowledge and respond to students’requests for measurement and advice thereon. This system enables students to work with the technical staff when they try to perform high-level analysis. Because it is frequented by many students, the analytical room always generates a lively atmosphere.

This award was established in 2012 upon the completion of the women researchers support model development project with the aim of extending support to female students in the FST who show promise on the global stage. In FY2021, four female students were chosen to receive the award, which includes partial support for research expenses. The photograph on the right shows the four recipients of the award in FY2021, taken alongside the president of the university and their academic advisors.

Sophia University has established a global network with partner universities with which it has entered into student or academic exchange agreements. Not only students but also researchers actively promote international exchanges. Such activities are supported by the global mentor system in which researchers active on the global stage act as mentors and provide advice or academic guidance through individual consultations, lectures, or exchange meetings. Ms. Hui Chung Ting Justine (then third-year student of the Doctoral Program in the Green Science and Engineering Division, Graduate School of Science and Technology) earned her degree after receiving guidance from her global mentor, Professor Chin-Tuan Tan, of The University of Texas, on September 20, 2019.