#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #J-PEAKS #Cryo-SEM

Advanced Medical Research Trends Seminar at Okayama University

Okayama University is set to host a pivotal seminar titled "Advanced Medical Research Trends - Special Lecture on Cryo-FIB-SEM and Tomography" on February 10, 2026. This unique event aims to highlight the evolving landscape of medical research facilitated by cutting-edge analytical capabilities. The hybrid format allows participants to join both in person at the Kakuta Campus and online, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Overview of the Event

As part of the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's initiative to enhance regional core research universities, Okayama University is spearheading advancements in shared analytical measurement equipment, including the introduction of the Cryo-Electron Microscope and Cryo-FIB-SEM system, which are now available for collaborative use across institutions. This initiative is focused on boosting research capabilities within the Chugoku and Shikoku regions of Japan and fostering a collaborative network among universities.

The seminar, taking place from 4 PM to 6 PM, will open with greetings from Dr. Keiji Naruse, the head of Okayama University's Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical, and Health Sciences, followed by an explanation of the J-PEAKS project by Dr. Masaki Kawamoto, the leading vice director of the university's Research and Innovation Collaboration Organization.

Special Lecture

A highlight of the event will be the special lecture led by Professor Hitoshi Kurumisaka from the Quantitative Biosciences Institute at the University of Tokyo. Professor Kurumisaka will delve into new biochemical and molecular biology analyses utilizing Cryo-Electron Microscopy (Cryo-EM) that could significantly advance life sciences research. This session presents an invaluable opportunity for attendees to deepen their understanding of innovative research approaches and methodologies.

Event Details

• - Date and Time: February 10, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• - Location: Okayama University Kakuta Campus, Kakuta Hall Auditorium, located at 2-5-1 Kakuta-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. The event will also be live-streamed online.
• - Program Schedule:

- 16:00 - 16:05: Opening remarks by Dr. Keiji Naruse
- 16:05 - 16:15: Overview of Okayama University’s J-PEAKS initiative by Dr. Masaki Kawamoto
- 16:15 - 16:30: Introduction to Cryo-EM and Cryo-FIB-SEM by Associate Professor Yoshitaka Numamoto
- 16:30 - 18:00: Special Lecture on "Molecular Basis of Genome Function Regulation by Chromatin Structure and Dynamics" by Professor Hitoshi Kurumisaka, chaired by Dr. Kenjin Shin, Director of Okayama University's International Institute for Structural Biology.

Who Should Attend?

The seminar is aimed at undergraduate and graduate students, faculty members, and researchers interested in state-of-the-art medical and biological research technologies.

Registration Information

Participation in the seminar is free of charge, but prior registration is required. Participants can sign up via the registration form (link provided) by the registration deadline of February 3, 2026. For online participants, the link to join the seminar will be sent via email prior to the event.

• - Registration Form

Conclusion

This seminar at Okayama University represents a significant step towards advancing medical research in Japan and emphasizes the importance of collaboration among institutions. We encourage all interested attendees to join and take part in the discussion surrounding these revolutionary scientific techniques. For further inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to Okayama University’s Research and Development Strategy Committee.