HFSP Leadership Visits the iCeMS

October 14, 2010

On October 5, Secretary General Prof. Dr. Ernst-Ludwig Winnacker and Deputy Secretary General Toru Nakahara of the Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP) paid a visit to Kyoto University's Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (iCeMS).

The HFSP is a global research funding organization currently supported by 13 countries and the European Union. It was established in 1989 based on a proposal by then Japanese Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone at the Venice Economic Summit, with the aim to support innovative and interdisciplinary basic research focused on the complex mechanisms of living organisms. This particular visit emphasized the promotion of international, interdisciplinary, and innovative research, thereby seeking to encourage applications from young iCeMS researchers.

iCeMS Director Norio Nakatsuji first delivered an introductory presentation to the visitors about the iCeMS' support systems for young researchers, such as the iCeMS Kyoto Fellow positions and the Exploratory Grants for Young Researchers. After a tour of the iCeMS main building, including open office spaces, recreational areas, and shared laboratories, Dr. Winnacker gave a presentation on the HFSP to an audience of iCeMS researchers. Commenting on the increasingly domestic focus of young Japanese scientists, he strongly urged more researchers to apply for the program to develop their careers overseas.

Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP)

iCeMS Director Nakatsuji (left) leading Dr. Winnacker on a tour of the Main Building

HFSP Deputy Secretary General Nakahara (left), Dr. Winnacker, and Dr. Nakatsuji touring an open office

Dr. Winnacker delivering a presentation on the HFSP