Dept. of Complexity Science & Engineering – Anytime Consultation Guide

— Email consultations welcome. Short 15-minute chats also available —

What is this support window?

In the Department of Complex Systems Engineering, we have created an “Anytime Consultation” system so that students can pursue their research and student life with confidence and peace of mind.

This is a low-barrier consultation window where students can freely talk about research concerns, lab atmosphere, communication issues, possible harassment, mental well-being, career worries, or even small daily concerns.

Examples of when to use this service:

  • You want someone to listen briefly (even 15 minutes)
  • You are unsure whether the issue is serious but it still bothers you
  • You want to organize your thoughts through email
  • You wonder "Is this appropriate to ask?" — yes, it is

Consultants (Faculty Members)

You may email any consultant you feel comfortable contacting.

  • Assoc. Prof. Takashi Ishida – ishi@k.u-tokyo.ac.jp
  • Prof. Tsuyoshi Imamura – t_imamura@edu.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp
  • Prof. Hiroshi Kori – kori@k.u-tokyo.ac.jp
  • Prof. Kumiko Hayashi – hayashi@issp.u-tokyo.ac.jp
  • Assoc. Prof. Kazuo Yoshioka – kazuo.yoshioka@edu.k.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Laboratory website

How to Consult (Email → Optional Meeting)

① Email your concern

  • Your message can be brief; write only what you can.
  • Anonymous consultation is possible (responses may be limited).
Subject: Brief consultation request
I have a small concern about ○○ and would like to talk for about 15 minutes. May I begin by email?

② Email-only consultation is fine

If meeting feels burdensome, you may continue via email only.

③ Short meetings available (15 minutes and up)

In-person or Zoom meetings can be arranged; longer discussions (30–60 min) are possible.

Confidentiality Policy

  • Your consultation will not be shared with anyone except the consultant you contacted.
  • Sharing with other faculty or official university offices occurs only with your explicit consent.
  • Consultation will never affect your grades or supervision.

Topics You Can Consult About

Research

  • Research pace or direction
  • Concerns about supervision
  • Lab atmosphere stress

Relationships

  • Communication with advisor or lab members

Possible Harassment

  • Even vague discomfort is valid

Mental and Physical Well-being

  • Low mood, anxiety, sleep issues

Other

  • Future career concerns
  • Small everyday worries

Referral to Professional Offices

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Is a short 15-minute consultation okay?
A. Yes. A short conversation is often enough to help.

Q. I am not good at writing emails.
A. Writing "I have something I'd like to consult about" is perfectly fine.

Q. Will my supervisor be informed?
A. No. Nothing is shared without your consent.

Q. Can I complete everything by email?
A. Yes, if that is your preference.

Message: Research life has ups and downs. If you feel "maybe I want to talk," please email us.