EVP Yamaguchi Visits University of Alberta

From 19 to 22 May 2026, a delegation of seven Tohoku representatives, led by Executive Vice President Yamaguchi, visited the University of Alberta in Canada. Following the signing of a Letter of Intent between the two institutions in January, the visit explored possibilities for future collaboration and paved the way for a planned inter-university MOU.

The visit coincided with Upper Bound – the leading conference on Artificial Intelligence (AI) that is held in Alberta annually. The Tohoku delegation was able to attend part of the conference and gather information on the latest developments in AI research, including generative AI and AI platforms.

The University of Alberta is a prestigious state university, boasting a high position in the world rankings (THE 2025: 166, QS 2025: 96), and a particularly strong research output in AI and machine learning. Its 10-year strategic plan focuses on elevating research in health-care, AI, energy, and environmental science – fields that overlap with Tohoku’s own strengths and strategic vision. Through discussions between leadership and key academics, a number of specific areas were identified as especially promising for future collaboration: 1. AI and Mechatronics; 2. Disaster Prevention AI; 3. Hydrogen and CCUS* Technology; and 4. Chemical and Resource Recycling.

The University of Alberta is a prestigious state university, boasting a high position in the world rankings (THE 2025: #116, QS 2025: #96), and a particularly strong research output in AI and machine learning. Its 10-year strategic plan focuses on elevating research in health-care, AI, energy, and environmental science – fields that overlap with Tohoku’s own strengths and strategic vision. Through discussions between leadership and key academics, a number of specific areas were identified as especially promising for future collaboration: 1. AI and Mechatronics; 2. Disaster Prevention AI; 3. Hydrogen and CCUS* Technology; and 4. Chemical and Resource Recycling.

*CCUS: Carbon Dioxide Capture, Utilization, and Storage

See also: Tohoku University and University of Alberta Agree to Strengthen Cooperation