national research and development agency
A category of independent administrative institution in Japan that conducts R&D; established under the Act on General Rules for National Research and Development Agencies.
National research and development agencies play an important role in the nation's science and technology policy.
独立行政法人 is a broader category of independent administrative institution; 国立研究開発法人 is a specialized type focused on R&D.
Compound of 国立 (national), 研究 (research), 開発 (development), and 法人 (corporation/agency). A modern legal term.