Towards innovative solutions to social problems

Our society is facing numerous challenges that require urgent global solutions. To address these social problems, we have established Integrated Research Centers (IRCs) in April 2025 and leverage the full capabilities of AIST.

AIST has developed a wide range of technologies and cultivated research capabilities extensively over many years, and our current focus is to translate them into social implementation in real-world settings. Under the 6th Mid-Term Goals (2025-2032), AIST have identified three social problems: “Managing energy, environment, and resource constraints,” “Coping with a declining and aging population,” and “Realizing a resilient society.” The following seven IRCs play central roles in addressing these issues, leveraging AIST's comprehensive capabilities toward social implementation. These IRCs have been affiliated with the Research Strategy Headquarters, ensuring that AIST's strategic plans are directly reflected in their direction.

Seven Integrated Research Centers

Integrated Research Center for CCUS Implementation

Director: GENCHI Yutaka

Implementing CO₂ reduction technologies to achieve the carbon neutrality by 2050

Integrated Research Center for Circular Technology

Director: SATO Hiroaki

Implementing advanced recycling technologies to realize a circular economy.

Integrated Research Center for Nature Positive Technology

Director:IMAIZUMI Hiroyuki

Implementing technologies for measurement, evaluation, and recovery of natural capital and visualization to realize a nature-positive society.

Integrated Research Center for Advanced Manufacturing

Director: MASUI Keijiro

Constructing advanced manufacturing systems to enhance productivity and professional human resources.

Integrated Research Center for Wellbeing

Director: TANIKAWA Tamio

Implementing technologies for monitoring and reducing both physical and mental workloads to improve workplace environment and enhance productivity.

Integrated Research Center for Self-Care Technology

Director: MARUYAMA Osamu

Implementing fundamental technologies for self-managed daily healthcare to prolong healthy life expectancy.

Integrated Research Center for Resilient Infrastructure

Director: ISHII Juntaro

Implementing advanced technologies for operation and maintenance of infrastructure to achieve national resilience.