LTS Unveils the Academy for Health Science Evaluation
In a significant move towards enhancing preventive healthcare, LTS Co., Ltd., headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, announced the establishment of the Academy for Health Science Evaluation. This new venture, officially launched in January 2026, marks the second success story under the PALETTE initiative, aimed at supporting management talent in university-originated startups, as recognized and backed by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).
Background of the Academy
The inception of the Academy is a product of a strategic partnership between notable figures in the medical and business sectors: Dr. Hiroaki Hamano, serving as a lecturer in the pharmacy department at Okayama University Hospital, and Mr. Uda Ikeda, a seasoned executive in healthcare startups. Their collaboration leads to a shared vision for the Academy, which will operate from the Co-Creation Innovation Lab (KIBINOVE) located on the Tsushima Campus of Okayama University.
The Academy's primary focus encompasses clinical trials for health foods and supplements and career education for pharmacy students, all while promoting 'preventive medicine' as a concept aimed at warding off illnesses before they can take root.
Leadership Details
Dr. Hamano, who will assume the role of Representative Director, brings a wealth of experience, having been engaged in pharmacy at Tokushima University Hospital since 2013 and serving in various roles including special lecturer at the Comprehensive Clinical Research Center of Tokushima University Hospital. His efforts culminate in the establishment of the Academy, targeting advancements in preventive healthcare through collaborations with local governments and entities related to food and healthcare.
Objectives and Focus Areas
One of the core missions of the Academy is to conduct clinical research in cooperation with municipalities, generating credible evidence in the field of preventive healthcare. Dr. Hamano believes that by establishing such foundations, many can enjoy a future free from diseases.
Mr. Ikeda echoes similar sentiments, emphasizing the valuable overlap between academia and business, identifying the necessity of platforms that connect the two. His professional journey boasts extensive experience in managing consulting for hospitals and supporting the growth of healthcare startups. He expresses enthusiasm for the Academy's direction and its potential to streamline agreements with high-probability partners, citing collaborations such as the one with Matsumoto Health Lab based in Nagano Prefecture to create a health promotion and clinical research model.
PALETTE Initiative Overview
The PALETTE initiative embodies LTS's commitment to facilitate research-based startups aimed at addressing future technologies developed within university frameworks. By fostering connections between aspiring management talent and innovative projects, PALETTE aspires to create a robust model for startup development in local regions across Japan.
Conclusion
With the launch of the Academy for Health Science Evaluation, LTS not only broadens its portfolio in health-related ventures but also reinforces its dedication to making significant contributions to preventive healthcare. This initiative reflects a growing trend towards integrating innovative research with practical applications, ultimately benefiting society by addressing healthcare needs before they manifest into severe issues. The Academy stands positioned as a beacon for future endeavors in health science and an advocate for a healthier population.
For those interested in learning more about LTS and its services, further details are available on their website at
LTS Official Site.
Contact Information
For media inquiries:
LTS Co., Ltd. Public Relations Team
Email:
[email protected]
Additional Notes
LTS is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market under the stock code: 6560, representing its stature within the industry as a consulting partner dedicated to enhancing transformation capabilities for its clients amidst the rapidly evolving digital landscape.