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Sakura Finetech Japan Opens Applications for the 19th Sakura Pathology Technology Award

Sakura Finetech Japan Co., Ltd., headquartered in Chuo-ku, Tokyo and led by President Kazuhito Onda, has announced the opening of applications for the 19th Sakura Pathology Technology Award. This highly regarded award aims to recognize individuals, organizations, and researchers who have made significant contributions to the field of pathology and the advancement of pathological testing and techniques, with the application period starting on September 7, 2026 and concluding on November 27, 2026.

Since its establishment in 2008, the Sakura Pathology Technology Award has celebrated wide-ranging achievements as it expands beyond just academic research to include community engagements and nurturing upcoming professionals in the field. Recent iterations have welcomed self-nominations to accommodate a more diverse group of applicants, facilitating participation from a broader range of individuals dedicated to pathology.

In addition, starting from the 13th award, accomplishments linked to advanced therapies such as genomic medicine, safety management through standardization, and emerging technologies like AI have also become part of the evaluation criteria. In total, 46 individuals and 4 organizations have received accolades up to this point.

Selection Process

Winners will be determined through a rigorous selection process managed by the Sakura Pathology Technology Award Selection Organization, established within the National University Hospitals’ Pathology Technicians Liaison Committee. The selection committee includes anonymous members who ensure a fair and meticulous review of submissions.

Award Categories and Eligible Candidates

The 19th Sakura Pathology Technology Award is open for applications in the following categories:
1. Research papers focusing on sample preparation techniques in cytopathology.
2. A broad range of activities and research outside of academic work, which includes:
- Enhancements to technical knowledge and skills in everyday operations.
- Development of younger technicians and the passing down of sample preparation techniques.
- Significant contributions to community medical services.

Eligible candidates must primarily work in the preparation of pathological specimens (histopathology and cytology) or be researchers or technicians dedicated to advancing pathology sample preparation techniques and testing lab operations. It’s important to note that the applicants’ possession of a national qualification is not a prerequisite, and physicians or dentists are excluded from eligibility.

Awards to be presented include:

• - Sakura Pathology Technology Award
• - Sakura Pathology Technology Encouragement Award
• - Sakura Pathology Technology Rookie Award
• - Sakura Pathology Technology Matsumoto Award

Should no suitable candidate emerge for any of the awards, no selection will take place.

For additional details, please visit Sakura Finetech Japan's official website at Sakura Finetech Website.

Future of Pathology

In an era where recognition of pathological diagnosis is on the rise, the requests for the roles within the medical field and from patients continue to grow. Sakura Finetech Japan is committed to ongoing support and contributions to individuals involved in pathology through this award, paving the way for a progressive future in pathology sample preparation.

About Sakura Finetech Japan Co., Ltd.

Sakura Finetech Japan Co., Ltd. serves as a subsidiary of Sakura Global Holdings, chaired by Kenichi Matsumoto, and specializes in devices, consumables, and reagents used in pathological testing. They are dedicated to making significant contributions to the medical field through pathology, an essential component of accurate final diagnosis.

18th Award Commemorative Lecture

Video content for the 18th Sakura Pathology Technology Award former lecture is now available for on-demand viewing on the Sakura Finetech Japan website.

For viewing, please access: 18th Award Lecture Video