The model of human resources that the Leading Graduate Program in Primatology and Wildlife Science (PWS) seeks to develop is as follows. Primatology is a rare academic discipline that has been disseminated from Japan to the world, and Japan has remained at its forefront. Building on primatology, an emerging academic field called “wildlife science” of endangered large animals is being established. What is needed in that development is actions that realize the philosophy of the Kyoto University Charter, “Harmonious Coexistence of Global Society”, while deepening understanding of the whole nature of human mind, body, living, and genome, based on a common foundation of fieldwork. In the field of wildlife science, which is a study of existential interconnection of all living things, there is now a need to develop global leaders who can bridge science and practice with the spirit of “oneness of knowledge and action” cultivated through fieldwork. While primatology is at the forefront of science, there are three things that are clearly lacking in Japan and present in Europe and the United States: (1) training of young people to work for international organizations and NGOs as experts in biological conservation; (2) training of curators in museums, zoos, and aquariums, and creation of field-based museums; and (3) outreach activities targeting entire countries, i.e., activities that deepen ties with specific countries over a long period of time. In fact, these three areas of deficiency offer opportunities for future growth. Research is not in and of itself the destination. Filling a new niche for research, education, and practice, PWS aims to nurture human resources that can make visible contributions to Japan in international organizations and NGOs, in museums and zoos, and in other countries. Japan is the only developed country in the world where wild primates live; at the same time, medium to large mammals such as bears, deer, wild boars, Japanese macaques, and sea mammals are facing increasing conflicts with humans. In light of these realities, PWS aims to develop human resources to build and operate a world-class conservation and management system for domestic wildlife as well.
This program accepts students who are interested in one of the above-mentioned areas for human resources development, have basic academic skills in that area, and possess high communication skills. To enroll in this program, a student must meet both of the following conditions: (1) they must be a graduate student at Kyoto University, and (2) they must apply for, and be accepted into, the PWS program (transfer students must submit a master's thesis and have practical experience equivalent to what the curriculum of the PWS program provides). Admission decisions are made based on submitted applications.
Established at the PWS Staff Meeting: March 14, 2014
Revised and approved: January 11, 2022
Revised and approved at the PWS Staff Meeting: June 16, 2022