In order to achieve the mission of the RIKEN Pioneering Research Institute, scientists with outstanding research achievements, broad perspectives and excellent leadership abilities are recruited as to as the leaders of Chief Scientist Laboratories. Chief Scientists carry out their own research based on a long-term perspective,

In the Hakubi Fellows Program, RIKEN offers junior PI positions for independent research by exceptionally talented individuals. The program, established in 2017, encourages active exchange between the fellows, and seeks to develop the next generation of leading researchers with a global outlook.

The RIKEN ECL Program offers 2 types of positions: Team Leader and Unit Leader. The positions focus on natural sciences (including mathematical science and information science) or research areas bordering/blending natural sciences with humanities and social sciences, and provide researchers with an appropriate research environment corresponding to their research plan and career stage.