British Association for Japanese Studies appoints Cardiff scholar as President

Dr Christopher Hood, Reader in Japanese Studies was recently appointed President of the British Association for Japanese Studies (BAJS).

BAJS was founded in 1963 and aims to encourage Japanese studies in the UK by stimulating teaching and research.

Dr Hood first became a member of the association in 1995 while carrying out his PhD. Since then he has held the position of Honorary Treasurer for a term and has had two periods of time on the association’s Council. In addition, Dr Hood has regularly attended many BAJS conferences and it was at this year’s annual general meeting where he became the new President.

Dr Hood’s appointment as President follows a nomination by the previous President, Professor Caroline Rose. Professor Rose will  remain in the position for a year with the help of Dr Hood to ensure a smooth handover.

BAJS work to maintain good relationships between the Japanese studies academic community and other organisations – such as the Japanese Embassy and funding organisations. They also have their own journal, Japan Forum which is well regarded and successful.

Dr Hood said of his appointment, “It is a privilege to have been chosen as the new President of BAJS and I look forward to an exciting few years spearheading a number of new initiatives in Japanese studies.”