Research Assistant work during a PhD in Japan count as “work experience” for HSP points?

Hi everyone,

I’m applying under the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) points system in Japan and had a question about work experience.

During my PhD in Japan, I worked as a paid Research Assistant. I have official documents from the university confirming my RA role, period of work, and duties.

Does RA work during a PhD count as valid work experience for HSP points?

Has anyone successfully counted this, or been told otherwise by immigration