#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #KIBINOVE #Research Strategy

Overview of Recent Visit

On October 17, 2025, Okayama University welcomed Go Nagasawa, a Cabinet Office Senior Assistant Minister overseeing integrated strategies. Nagasawa visited the Institute for Advanced Interdisciplinary Research and the co-creation innovation laboratory, KIBINOVE, located within the university. The visit was part of a broader strategy to enhance regional research capabilities and focus on innovative practices.

The team from the Institute for Advanced Interdisciplinary Sciences, led by Professor Jianren Chen, Associate Professor Osamu Numamoto, and Assistant Professor Bishey Ca, presented insights on crucial instruments such as the Cryo-Electron Microscope (Cryo-EM) and the Cryo-Tomography system. They highlighted the shared use of these cutting-edge research tools and the ongoing manufacturer training aimed at facilitating collaborative research projects.

During the inspection, Nagasawa raised pertinent questions regarding the equipment suppliers. The researchers addressed how purchasing both the Cryo-EM and Cryo-Tomography from the same manufacturer helps in standardizing specifications and reducing failure rates, thus increasing operational efficiency. They also discussed the informative graphics interface of the new Cryo-Tomography, which simplifies its operation and allows experiments to progress without compromising sample integrity by minimizing exposure.

After the lab tour, attendees moved to the KIBINOVE reception area. Masaki Kawamoto, Deputy Director of the Research and Innovation Co-creation Organization, introduced the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology’s (MEXT) "Regional Core and Distinctive Research University Enhancement Promotion Project (J-PEAKS)." This initiative aims to strengthen the university’s research strategy, focusing on personnel reform and infrastructure improvements essential for fostering a vibrant research environment.

About 20 participants, including young administrative staff from Okayama University, were engaged in discussions aimed at disseminating information about J-PEAKS, which touches on personnel reforms and advances in research infrastructure. The university is strategically moving forward with its long-term vision for 2025, leveraging J-PEAKS to facilitate access to key instruments like the Cryo-Electron Microscope and the impending shared use of the Cryo-Tomography system, set to start in November.

Okayama University's relentless challenges and transformation as a core regional research university continue to evolve. The collaboration and innovation fostered by KIBINOVE promise exciting developments in various fields of research, underscoring the university’s commitment to contributing positively to both local and global communities.

In summary, Okayama University stands at the forefront of research and innovation, signifying its dedication to advancing cutting-edge studies while enhancing educational frameworks through strategic partnerships and initiatives like J-PEAKS. As they push boundaries in interdisciplinary scientific research, the university embodies the spirit of growth and transformation vital for addressing future challenges in society.