About J-STAR
J-STAR (Japanese Scientists To Advance Rheumatology) was launched on August 24, 2019, as part of the Basic Research Promotion Committee of the Japan College of Rheumatology to enhance basic research in Rheumatology. We have since expanded our interest to three key fields: Basic Research (BR), Clinical Research (CR), and International Relationship (IR). Our aim is to strengthen international exchanges by providing next generation rheumatologists with opportunities to engage in research, and to promote collaboration between clinicians and basic researchers to explore new research areas.
Greeting from the Chairman
J-STAR (Japanese Scientists to Advance Rheumatology) is a committee of the Japan College of Rheumatology (JCR), established in 2024 to promote basic research, clinical research, and international collaboration among young rheumatologists and to nurture the next generation of leaders in the field. As of January 2026, approximately 3,000 rheumatologists under 45 years of age belong to JCR. We envisioned that, if these young members could strengthen their connections and camaraderie and generate new synergies together, it could foster a vibrant and robust ecosystem for innovation in rheumatology. With this aspiration, the J-STAR committee was launched.
Currently, the J-STAR committee consists of three divisions: J-STAR-BR (Basic Research), J-STAR-CR (Clinical Research), and J-STAR-IR (International Relationship). Across these divisions, a wide variety of collaborative initiatives are underway, including J-STAR sessions at the JCR Annual Scientific Meeting led primarily by young members, joint symposia with young investigator committees from other societies, and collaborative research projects with young rheumatology groups overseas. Furthermore, we are actively engaging in joint webinars, symposia, and global research collaborations with the APLAR Young Rheumatologists (AYR) of APLAR and the Emerging EULAR Network (EMEUNET).
We warmly welcome you to join J-STAR and take part in these dynamic and growing activities. We look forward to hearing from you.
January 1, 2026
