I'm doing my PhD in chemical engineering in the US. I'm also a US citizen. I'm just under the halfway mark, and I'm interested in doing a post-doc in Japan upon completing my degree. My PI doesn't have any connections to labs in Japan, and my department doesn't really either. I wanted to get an idea on the research and work-related culture in Japan. I don't know where to look or who to talk to about it.
I have been seeing a few posts via Reddit and other forums about people's experiences. It seems like the quality of the experience really comes down to your PI (which is true for any lab anywhere). How do you know if a PI is a good match, especially if I'm coming from the other side of the world? This is something I'm really worried about if I do take this route.
All I know though, is that typically work culture in Japan is extremely tough and it quite literally takes up all your time. But I also know that in research jobs, the culture is very lab-dependent. I don't mind working long hours often, but obviously I'd like to find a healthier lab culture where I can. I just don't know how to go about my search.
Also, if I was able to go and got the necessary work visa, etc., would I be able to bring my spouse?
I have a million questions lol. If anyone is in this area and wouldn't mind maybe even networking, that'd be fantastic!
by AltruisticLow5955