Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and Keio University co-hosted the OIST-KEIO Showcase Event Series on January 31, titled "Science Meets Society: Frontiers in Interdisciplinary Approaches to Life Sciences." This marked the 7th co-hosted event between the two institutions.
The symposium, held at the Sydney Brenner Lecture Theater on the OIST campus, brought together researchers from both institutions to explore innovative, interdisciplinary topics at the intersection of life sciences, technology, and societal impact.
In her opening remarks, Amy Shen, Provost and Professor at OIST, highlighted the importance of research collaboration and educational exchange between the two institutions. She hoped this symposium would foster new ideas and friendships. Following her, Satoshi Mitarai, Dean of Research and Professor, presented key milestones in the development of the collaboration that began in 2019, highlighting the signing of an MOU and the first joint publication from the KEIO-OIST Summer Camp, accompanied by photos.
Teruo Nakatsuma, Director of KGRI, introduced KGRI's efforts in interdisciplinary and international research, explained the Program for Forming Japan's Peak Research Universities (J-PEAKS) project both institutions joined in 2023, and outlined future collaboration plans.
The symposium featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including Dr. Yoshihiro Itaguchi from Keio University's Faculty of Letters, Dr. Mayumi Oda and Dr. Michiyuki Kawakami from Keio's School of Medicine, and Dr. Kunimichi Suzuki from the WPI-Bio2Q at Keio. From OIST, the speakers included Dr. Tomomi Kiyomitsu, Dr. Bernd Kuhn, Dr. Simone Pigolotti, Dr. Midori Ohta, and Dr. Saacnicteh Toledo Patino.
The talk session was divided into three parts: "Dynamics of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms," "Diversity and Expansion of Life Sciences," and "Advanced Neuroscience and Brain Science." Professors Bernd Kuhn, Koji Hase, and Masayuki Amagaya moderated the sessions. Discussions on topics integrating advanced technology and research continued until the coffee break, providing an excellent platform for young researchers to present their work in an international setting.
In the closing session, Professor Amagaya expressed gratitude to the speakers and organizers, concluding the conference. He stated, "All activities are for the next generation. And we are very lucky to have the next generation to carry on the torch," emphasizing that the collaboration between the two institutions provides knowledge and opportunities to future leaders.
The 7th OIST-KEIO Showcase Talk highlighted the ongoing partnership between OIST and Keio University, showcasing their commitment to addressing global challenges through collaborative efforts in the life sciences. Participants expressed that the event offered engaging content and meaningful opportunities for dialogue.
