Dr. Imai specializes in environmental studies and policy planning, focusing on climate change adaptation for regional and local governments. She has conducted surveys to understand the perceptions of farmers and local policymakers on this issue. As part of Dr. Kurisu's project on the impacts of climate change on quality of life and local industries, she interviewed local governments and farmers about the effects on agriculture in Japan. Currently, she is assessing and analyzing regional climate change adaptation plans at the Center for Climate Change Adaptation, National Institute for Environmental Studies.