AIST welcomes researchers and visitors from abroad with high interest in various research fields. AIST has also dispatched its staff overseas. The following are some examples, and a list of visits both made and received over the last few years.
The FUSO-KAI (扶桑会) Delegation from Taiwan visits AIST.
October 30th, 2024
On 30th October 2024, the FUSO-KAI delegation from Taiwan and related persons visited AIST Tsukuba Centre, where they were welcomed by President Mr. ISHIMURA, Senior Vice-President Dr. MURAYAMA, Vice-President Dr. KATAOKA, Vice-President Dr. TSUNETO, and others from AIST.
The delegation attended presentations on the activities of AIST, ABCI, G-QuAT, and the Geological Survey of Japan, as well as on the efforts being made in advanced semiconductor research. In addition, the delegation toured the superconducting quantum computer experimental facility (G-QuAT, Qufab), the Geological Museum, and the semiconductor super clean room.
There was a lively exchange of opinions on AIST's research and development activities throughout the visit.
The delegation headed by H.E. Mr. Heng Swee Keat, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore, visits AIST.
October 8th, 2024
On October 8th, 2024, the delegation headed by H.E. Mr. Heng Swee Keat, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore, and which included representatives from the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), visited AIST. The delegation was welcomed by Mr. Ishimura, President and CEO, Dr. Masu, Director of the Global Research and Development Center for Business by Quantum-AI technology (G-QuAT), Dr. Tsuneto, Vice-President, and others from AIST.
The delegation attended presentations on the activities of AIST and G-QuAT, and visited an experimental facility for superconducting quantum computers. They were then given an overview on AIST's advanced semiconductor research activities being carried out at the Semiconductor Frontier Research Center (SFRC) and visited the Super Clean Room.
There were lively discussions among all the participants during the visit, which concluded with remarks by DPM Heng and Dr. Tsuneto that pave the way to further strengthen collaboration between Singapore and AIST.
Chair of the DLR Executive Board Visits AIST Tokyo Headquarters
July 25th, 2024
On July 25, 2024, a delegation from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) led by Prof. Dr. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, Chair of the Executive Board, visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters, where they were welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President and CEO, Dr. TSUNETO Akira, Vice-President, Dr. OBARA Haruhiko, Director-General of the Department of Energy and Environment, Dr. UEHARA Natsuko, Executive Officer, and Dr. SEKIGUCHI Satoshi, Senior Vice-President & CTO of AIST Solutions Co., among others.
In his welcome remarks, Mr. ISHIMURA touched upon the active exchanges between AIST and DLR. In turn, Prof. Kaysser-Pyzalla noted the similarities between both institutions, and expressed hopes for further collaboration.
There were also presentations on quantum technology R&D by Dr. HORIBE Masahiro, Deputy Director of the Global Research and Development Center for Business by Quantum-AI technology, AIST, and Dr. Robert Axmann, Director Quantum Computing Initiative at DLR, followed by lively discussions.
Economic Mission led by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Luxembourg visits AIST
June 12th, 2024
On June 12, 2024, a delegation of the Luxembourg Economic Mission, led by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Guillaume of Luxembourg, visited AIST Tsukuba Center. The delegation of around 60 persons was made up of government leaders headed by H.E. Mr. Lex Dellès, Minister of the Economy, SME, Energy and Tourism, as well as representatives from Luxembourg businesses.
The delegation was given introductions of the Cyber Physical Security Research Center, the Advanced Healthcare Service Research Laboratory, and ZenmuTech, an AIST Solutions startup. The visitors subsequently toured G-QuAT (Global Research and Development Center for Business by Quantum-AI technology) and the Science Square.
In the discussions which took place in the AIST President’s office, there were expressions of appreciation from His Royal Highness, as well as conversations regarding the state of Japan’s national research institutes and their technological capabilities in areas including quantum.
CEO of the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) visits AIST
May 20th, 2024
On May 20, 2024, Dr. Tjark Tjin-A-Tsoi, CEO of the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) and his delegation visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters, and were welcomed by AIST President and CEO Mr. Ishimura, Executive Officer Dr. Uehara, AIST Solutions CEO Mr. Osaka, and others.
In his welcoming remarks, President Ishimura highlighted the long-standing cooperative relationship between AIST and TNO, while President Osaka introduced AIST Solutions and its initiatives.
Dr. Tjin-A-Tsoi described the similarities between TNO and AIST as akin to being sister institutions, and there were discussions on further developing ties amongst all parties.
The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Argentine Republic to Japan Visits AIST
November 21st, 2023
On November 21, 2023, H.E. Mr. Eduardo Tempone, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Argentine Republic to Japan, and Mr. Renato Morales, Secretary of the Embassy of the Argentine Republic in Japan, visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters, where they were welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President, Dr. USUDA Takashi, Executive Officer, and others from AIST.
In addition to his greetings as the new Ambassador, His Excellency expressed his desire to strengthen ties with Japan, particularly in the field of clean energy.
Mr. Ishimura responded in kind, stating his wish to deepen discussions toward collaborative relations, pending further consultation by related research departments.
AIST-ITRI Joint Symposium 2023
November 15th, 2023
On November 15, 2023, a joint symposium between AIST, and the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) of Taiwan (AIST-ITRI Joint Symposium 2023) was held at AIST Tokyo Waterfront. Around 60 participants attended the symposium from both institutes; these included, from AIST, Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President and CEO, Dr. TSUNETO Akira, Vice-President, Dr. USUDA Takashi, Executive Officer, and Mr. OSAKA Seiji, President and CEO of AIST Solutions, and from ITRI, Dr. Edwin Liu, President, Dr. Jwu-Sheng Hu, Executive Vice President, and Ms. June Lin, Vice President and CMO.
In his opening remarks, Mr. ISHIMURA congratulated ITRI on the celebration this year of its 50th anniversary, and expressed his delight that this joint symposium was held in person for the first time in 4 years. He further alluded to AIST’s launch of AIST Solutions Co. , and gave voice to his hopes for close collaboration between AIST and ITRI on social implementation.
Keynote speeches by Dr. USUDA, Dr. Hou-Peng Wan, Deputy General Director of the Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories, ITRI, and Mr. OSAKA, presentations concerning the collaborative achievements of AIST and ITRI to date, and the subsequent lab tours, were followed by technical sessions on 3 key collaborative areas, which elicited lively discussions.
Moreover, there were additional lab tours on the following day at both the Fukushima Renewable Energy Institute, AIST (FREA), and AIST Tsukuba Center.
The Argonne National Laboratory Director visits AIST Tsukuba
October 4th, 2023
On October 4, 2023, Dr. Paul K. Kearns, Laboratory Director of Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) and Co visited AIST Tsukuba, where they were welcomed by Dr. MURAYAMA Norimitsu, Senior Vice-President and CTO, Dr. UEHARA Natsuko, Director-General of the Planning Headquarters, and others.
Dr. MURAYAMA introduced AIST’s establishment of AIST Solutions Inc. to accelerate social implementation, while Dr. UEHARA gave an introductory of AIST as a whole, and Dr. YOSHIDA Yoshiyuki, Deputy Director of the Global Research and Development Center for Business by Quantum-AI Technology (G-QuAT), further introduced his center’s activities. In the lively exchange that followed, Dr. Kearns complemented AIST Solutions Inc. as a good model for startups, and stated that this visit gave him a better understanding of AIST’s quantum-related initiatives.
The visitors then toured our research facilities for Multiparticle-concentrated digital immunoassay (MCDIA), conducted by our Sensing Systems Research Center, as well as our Research Base for the advanced catalysts, Materials Process Innovation (MPI) Platform.
Visit by the Czech Deputy Prime Minister for Digitalization and His Delegation
June 12th, 2023
On June 12, 2023, a delegation from the Czech Republic led by Mr. Ivan Bartoš, Deputy Prime Minister for Digitalization, visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront, where they were welcomed by AIST representatives, namely, Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President and CEO, who participated remotely, Dr. USUDA Takashi, Executive Officer, Dr. TANAKA Yoshio, Director-General of the Department of Information Technology and Human Factors, Dr. HANAOKA Takaaki, Director-General of AIST Tokyo Waterfront, among others.
Mr. ISHIMURA expressed his desire for a frank exchange of opinions toward fostering collaborative relations between the Czech Republic and Japan, capitalizing on each other’s strengths in AI and robotics. Mr. Bartoš, in turn, stated that the visit to AIST was very meaningful, and his aspiration to take its best practices back to his country.
These opening remarks preceded overviews of AIST, its Department of Information Technology and Human Factors, and its Artificial Intelligence Research Center (AIRC), which were severally presented by Dr. USUDA, Dr. TANAKA, and Dr. KATAGIRI Yasuhiro, Director of AIRC. Lively exchanges of opinions followed. Mr. Bartoš also toured AIST’s laboratories on automated platform for bio-experiments (Mahoro), and Human-Machine Collaboration based on digital twins.
Visit by the French Minister of Higher Education and Research
May 11th, 2023
On May 11, 2023, the delegation from the French Republic led by Prof. Sylvie Retailleau, French Minister of Higher Education and Research, visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront, where they were welcomed by Dr. MURAYAMA Norimitsu, Senior-vise President and CTO, Mr. KATAOKA Ryuichi, Vice-President and COO , Dr. USUDA Takashi, Executive Officer, Dr. TANAKA Yoshio, Director-General of the Department for Information Technology and Human Factors, and other AIST representatives.
Dr. MURAYAMA introduced AIST’s current joint initiatives with CNRS, CEA, and INRIA, respectively. Upon this, Prof. Retailleau expressed her desire for exchanges on various themes to further deepen French-Japanese partnership, particularly one with AIST.
Next Dr. HATORI and Dr. YOSHIZAWA gave an overview of ZGR, and Dr. KATAGIRI introduced AIRC and its initiatives. These were followed by lively discussions and exchanges of opinions. Prof. Retailleu then toured a Mock-up Convenience Store where robot interactions were being introduced. There, she was accompanied by French researchers with whom she enjoyed friendly exchanges.
Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore visits AIST
April 25th, 2023
On April 25, 2023, the delegation from the Republic of Singapore led by Mr. Heng Swee Keat, Singapore Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront, where they were welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President and CEO, Mr. KATAOKA Ryuichi, Vice-President and CMO, Dr. USUDA Takashi, Executive Officer, Dr. TANAKA Yoshio, Director-General of the Department for Information Technology and Human Factors, and other AIST representatives.
Mr. Ishimura introduced AIST’s efforts to accelerate the social implementation of AIST’s research results in the form of products and services by launching AIST Solutions, a private corporation, in April of this year. DPM Heng complimented the initiative, stating his opinion that it was beneficial for AIST to have established a private company to promote innovation.
Next, Dr. Usuda and Dr. Tanaka, respectively, gave introductory overviews of AIST, and its Department of Information Technology and Human Factors. These overviews were followed by a lively exchange of opinions.
Chairman and CEO of CEA visits AIST
March 8th, 2023
On March 8, 2023, a delegation led by Dr. François Jacq, Chairman and CEO of the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters where they were welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President & CEO, and Dr. USUDA Takashi, Executive Officer, of AIST.
During the visit, Mr. Ishimura expressed AIST’s gratitude to CEA for its invaluable contributions in RD20 (Research and Development 20 for Clean Energy Technologies), an international initiative led by AIST. Dr. Jacq, in turn, stated his desire to further strengthen collaborative relations between CEA and AIST in renewable energy and microelectronics.
These exchanges were followed by discussions concerning future collaborations related to RD20 and renewable energy, in which Dr. OBARA Haruhiko, Executive Officer, and Dr. KONDO Michio, Supervisory Innovation Coordinator, among others, took part from AIST.
The President of ITRI visits AIST
Nobember 21st, 2022
On November 21, 2022, a delegation from the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) of Taiwan, led by its President, Dr. Edwin Liu, visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters, where they were welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President, Mr. KATAOKA Ryuichi, Vice-President, and Dr. OBARA Haruhiko, Executive Officer, and others.
In their greetings, both institution heads expressed their willingness to collaborate, with Mr. ISHIMURA stating his desire to together solve social problems common to Japan and Taiwan, while Dr. Liu voiced his aspiration by highlighting the situational similarities that both countries display, such as the importance of hydrogen application.
These remarks were followed by presentations from both sides, concerning which there were lively exchanges afterword. For ITRI, Dr. James Wang, General Director of the Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories (GEL), introduced Taiwan's Hydrogen Energy Development Roadmap and Carbon neutrality initiatives. For AIST, Mr. ISIMURA, along with Dr. KOIKE Hideaki of the Marketing and Business Development Headquarters, introduced AIST's initiatives relating to social implementation and startups.
Visit by the 1st Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic
Nobember 21st, 2022
On November 21, 2022, the delegation led by Mr. Jiri Kozak, 1st Deputy Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, and His Excellency Mr. Martin Tomco, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Japan, visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters. They were welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President, and Dr. SEKIGUCHI Satoshi, Senior Executive Officer respectively, of AIST, and others.
In his welcome remarks, President ISHIMURA remarked on the Czech Republic’s strengths in AI and robotics, and spoke of AIST’s own R&D initiatives in AI, robotics, and cyber-physical systems to counter the labor shortage caused by an aging population and a declining birthrate. Mr. Kozak in turn stated that, as there is a long history of interaction between the Czech Republic and Japan, and both countries share the same sense of values and are aiming for the same goals. He expressed his aspiration to explore possibilities for collaborations in various fields, including AI and robotics.
Dr. SEKIGUCHI then gave an overview of AIST, and demonstrated "Paro", a baby harp seal-shaped therapeutic robot. This led to a lively exchange of opinions.
Visit by Members of the Foreign Policy Committee of the National Council, Swiss Confederation
Nobember 7th, 2022
On November 7, 2022, Mr. Franz Grüter, President, and members of the Foreign Policy Committee of the National Council, Swiss Confederation, along with H. E. Dr. Andreas Baum, Ambassador of Switzerland to Japan, and accompanying guests visited AIST's TIA Central Office for lab tours and to exchange views on semiconductor research. The visitors were welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President, and Dr. KANEMARU Seigo, Senior Executive Officer and Director of the TIA Central Office, and others.
In his welcome remarks, President ISHIMURA stated that AIST conducts R&D that is widely beneficial to industry and society, and that semiconductor production technology is a key focus area for AIST. Mr. Grüter, in turn, spoke of his interest in AIST's efforts concerning the independent fabrication of semiconductors and their development.
These remarks preceded an introductory overview of AIST and TIA by Dr. KANEMARU, that was followed by an overview and a background on advanced semiconductor research at AIST by Dr. AWAZU Koichi, Councilor. The visit concluded with a tour of the Super Clean Room (SCR), where a lively exchange of opinions took place.
Visit by the Chairman of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Republic of Indonesia
September 30th, 2022
On September 30, 2022, a delegation led by Dr. Laksana Tri Handoko, Chairman of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) of the Republic of Indonesia, and His Excellency Ir. Heri Akhmadi, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Japan, visited AIST Tsukuba, where they were welcomed by Dr. Norimitsu Murayama, Senior Vice-President, Dr. Takashi Usuda, Executive Officer, among others.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Murayama expressed his hopes that interactions and collaborative ties in the area of science and technology between Indonesia and Japan will continue to deepen and expand. Dr. Handoko, in turn, gave an overview of BRIN, which was established last year April as a new organization integrating many research institutes in Indonesia. This was followed by an introductory overview of AIST by Dr. Usuda. Finally, Ambassador Akhmadi stated his desire to support the collaboration between BRIN and AIST.
The visit concluded with tours of AIST Science Square and the research site for high-frequency and microwave phase-shift standards, Research Institute for Physical Measurement.
Visit by the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation of the Argentine Republic
September 28th, 2022
On Wednesday, September 28th, 2022, a delegation led by Mr. Daniel FILMUS, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation of the Argentine Republic, and accompanied by Mr. Guillermo HUNT, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Japan, visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters where they were welcomed by Mr. Kazuhiko Ishimura, President, and Dr. Takashi Usuda, Executive Officer, among others.
In his greeting remarks, Mr. Filmus expressed his country’s desire to deepen collaboration with AIST on environmentally friendly resource exploration technologies and their applications, as well as promoting research exchanges between Argentina and Japan.
Following on from the introductory overview of AIST by Dr. Usuda, Mr. Ishimura spoke of the various possibilities for collaboration with Argentina, and that AIST looks forward to deepening our mutual understanding with the country.
President of the Technical Research Centre of Finland visits AIST
May 11th, 2022
On Wednesday, May 11th, 2022, a delegation led by Dr. Antti Vasara, President of the Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT), visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters where they were welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko, President and CEO, Dr. USUDA Takashi, Executive Officer, and other representatives of AIST.
In his welcome remarks, Mr. Ishimura spoke of the common goals shared by VTT and AIST that include tackling climate change and other global-scale problems, and strengthening the international competitiveness of industries. He further expressed his desire to deepen collaborative relations between the two institutes. The president’s remarks preceded an introductory overview of AIST by Dr. Usuda.
During the subsequent discussion, Dr. Vasara introduced VTT’s activities developing a superconductive quantum computer technology in partnership with a Finnish start-up. The technology, including algorithm development, are to be applied in a variety of fields including digital and biotechnologies. Mr. Ishimura responded by introducing AIST’s function as a development hub for quantum devices among others, and invited Dr. Vasara to visit AIST Tsukuba on the occasion of his next trip to Japan.
Visit to AIST Tokyo Waterfront by H.E. Ms. Ina Lepel, the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Japan
December 17th, 2020
On December 17th, 2020, Her Excellency Ms. Ina Lepel, the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Japan, visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront. The Ambassador was welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko and Dr. SEKIGUCHI Satoshi, President and Vice-President respectively of AIST, along with Dr. YOKOI Kazuhito, Director General of AIST Tokyo Waterfront, and Dr. TSUJII Jun’ichi, Director of the Artificial Intelligence Research Center (AIRC).
In his welcome remarks, Mr. ISHIMURA highlighted AIST’s collaboration with several leading German research institutes, which include the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (FhG-ISE), in addition to AIST’s joint research projects with the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI). Mr. ISHIMURA also expressed his hopes for strengthening working relationships with German research institutes toward tackling the world’s social problems together.
In response, the Ambassador expressed her hopes that the collaborative synergy between the two nations will contribute to significant progress in research. Dr. SEKIGUCHI followed with an introductory overview of AIST, which preceded an introduction of AIST’s artificial intelligence research projects by Dr. TSUJII.
The Ambassador then toured a research laboratory in the Cyber-Physical-Systems Research Facility, where research is being conducted to realize AI enabled human-robot interactions. They also visited a CrossCDR (Cross-Cultural High-Performance Digital Reality for Autonomous Driving) research site, where joint research projects by AIRC and DFKI are in progress. Ambassador Lepel displayed great interest in demonstrations, such as the pedestrian observation of an Autonomous mobile robot that was developed as part of the project.
Visit to AIST by H.E. the Ambassador of Brazil to Japan
June 5th, 2020
On June 5th, 2020, H.E. Mr. Eduardo Paes Saboia, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federative Republic of Brazil, visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters where he was welcomed by Mr. ISHIMURA Kazuhiko and Dr. SEKIGUCHI Satoshi, President and Vice-President of AIST, respectively.
During the meeting, Mr. Saboia commented on how tackling COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of science and technology, and praised Japan’s COVID-19 measures as being exemplary. The Ambassador also spoke of his desire to explore possibilities for collaborating with AIST and other Japanese research institutes in a variety of fields including, but not limited to COVID-19 measures, such as food and energy.
Mr. Ishimura introduced the Global Zero Emission Research Center (GZR) and its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions, as well as the Fukushima Renewable Energy Institute, AIST (FREA) and its R&D activities, including its hydrogen energy system. The President expressed his hopes that the Ambassador will visit both institutions.
Visit by H.E. Mr. Mladen Šarčevič, Minister of Education, Science and Technological Development of the Republic of Serbia
January 30th, 2020
On January 30th, 2020, a delegation from the Republic of Serbia led by H.E. Mr. Mladen Šarčevič, Minister of Education, Science and Technological Development, and H.E. Mr. Nenad GLIŠI, Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia to Japan, visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Following welcome remarks by Dr. CHUBACHI Ryoji, President of AIST, Dr. SEKIGUCHI Satoshi, Vice-President of AIST, gave an introductory overview of our institute. Mr. Šarčevič expressed his appreciation for AIST’s research activities, including the establishment of the Global Zero Emissions Research Center as mentioned by Dr. Chubachi. This was succeeded by an overview of Serbia’s research institutes.
The delegation later toured both the Science Square and the Geological Museum, where the latest research achievements by AIST are exhibited.
Visit by H.E. Mr. Morteza RAHMANI MOVAHED, the Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Iran to Japan
January 30th, 2020
On January 30th, 2020, H.E. Mr. Morteza RAHMANI MOVAHED, the Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Iran to Japan, visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Having been welcomed by Dr. SEKIGUCHI Satoshi, Vice-President of AIST, the Ambassador toured the exhibits of AIST Science Square with great interest, expressing his appreciation of Japan’s advances in science and technology.
Visit by H.E. Mr. Peter VAN DER VLIET, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Japan
January 14th, 2020
On January 14th, 2020, H.E. Mr. Peter VAN DER VLIET, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Japan, visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters.
In response to the Ambassador’s gratitude to AIST for the recent, meaningful exchange with the researchers from the Netherlands on topics including hydrogen, Dr. CHUBACHI Ryoji, President of AIST gave an explanation of how research on hydrogen, wind power, and other renewable energy sources are being conducted at FREA (Fukushima Renewable Energy Institute, AIST).
In addition, Dr. CHUBACHI spoke of the international conference on clean energy hosted by AIST last October, which brought together leaders of national research institutes of G20 member countries. The President also spotlighted the Zero Emissions Symposium to be held as a follow-up to the aforementioned international conference.
The Ambassador thanked the President for his introductory explanation, at the same time stating his commitment toward supporting the collaboration between AIST and research institutes of the Netherlands; these include High Tech Campus Einthoven, with whom AIST signed a comprehensive MOU.
Visit by H.E. Ms. Iselin Nybø, Minister of Research and Higher Education, Kingdom of Norway
November 6th, 2019
On November 6th, 2019, Ms. Iselin Nybø, Norwegian Minister of Research and Higher Education, and Ms. Inga M.W Nyhamar, the Norwegian Ambassador, visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront along with a delegation which included the Rector of the University of Oslo and other executives of leading universities.
Welcome remarks by Dr. MIKI Yukinobu, Senior Vice-President, were followed by overviews of AIST by Dr. ICHIKAWA Tagui, Director-General of AIST Tokyo Waterfront, and an introduction of our artificial intelligence research activities by Dr. SEO Yoshiki, Director of the Research Planning Office, Research Promotion Division for Artificial Intelligence, Department of Information Technology and Human Factors.
The visitors, in turn, provided an explanation on how information from public areas are gathered and utilized in Norway. They also expressed a desire to collaborate with AIST through personnel exchanges.
Afterword, the visitors toured the Cyber Physical Systems Research Unit, AIST’s new center for AI research.
Visit by His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia
October 21st, 2019
On October 21st, 2019, a delegation lead by His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, and the Hon. Richard Court AC, Australian Ambassador to Japan, visited AIST Tsukuba.
His Excellency traveled to Japan to attend the ceremony for the enthronement of the Emperor of Japan on October 22nd, 2019. As part of his tour, the Governor-General visited AIST due to his considerable interest in science and technology.
In his welcome remarks, Dr. CHUBACHI Ryoji, AIST President, spoke of AIST’s collaboration with the Australian Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), with whom AIST has signed a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This was followed by an introductory overview of AIST by Dr. SEKIGUCHI Satoshi, AIST Vice-President, and an introduction/demonstration of both the AI Bridging Cloud Infrastructure (ABCI), and the use of humanoid robots in a large-scale assembly/manufacturing environment.
The Governor-General commented on the importance of research common to both countries, and on his hopes for the ongoing collaboration between AIST and CSIRO. His Excellency was also greatly taken with AIST’s research activities during the lab tour.
Visit by H.E. Mr. Eduardo Paes Saboia, Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil to Japan
October 15th, 2019
September 27th, 2019
H.E. Mr. Eduardo Paes Saboia, Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil to Japan, visited AIST Tsukuba on September 27th, 2019, and AIST Tokyo Waterfront on October 15th, 2019.
At AIST Tsukuba, welcome remarks by Dr. MIKI Yukinobu, Senior Vice-President, was followed by an introductory overview by Dr. TANIGUCHI Masaki, Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division. During the subsequent discussions, in which Dr. SEKIGUCHI Satoshi, Vice-President also took part, His Excellency thanked AIST for welcoming the visit by the experts in Niobium and Graphene in June of this year, and that he hoped to continue promoting collaboration between Brazil and Japan.
The Ambassador then toured AIST Science Square, where he was particularly interested in the small-scale semiconductor manufacturing plant “minimal fab”, renewable energy research, and hydrogen energy technology, expressing a desire to visit AIST Tokyo Waterfront and the Fukushima Renewable Energy Research Institute, AIST (FREA) on the occasion of his next visit.
On October 15th, Dr. CHUBACHI Ryoji (AIST President), Dr. SEKIGUCHI, and Dr. MORI Masahiko (Director, Electronics and Photonics Research Institute, Department of Electronics and Manufacturing), and others welcomed His Excellency at Tokyo Headquarters. President Bolsonaro of Brazil, according to the Ambassador, has a significant interest in scientific research, and hopes to collaborate with countries including Japan in AI, healthcare, and so on.
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Visit by Dr. Pascale Ehrenfreund, Chair of the German Aerospace Center (DLR)
October 9th, 2019
On October 9th, 2019, Dr. Pascale Ehrenfreund, Chair of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) Executive Board, visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront.
Dr. SEKIGUCHI Satoshi, Vice-President of AIST, expressed his honor in welcoming Dr. Ehrenfreund and her delegation to AIST. Subsequently, Dr. SHIRAISHI Shigeaki, also Vice-President of AIST, thanked DLR for welcoming a member of AIST’s administrative staff, as part of our program aimed at developing marketing HR by dispatching AIST staff members overseas.
The purpose of Dr. Ehrenfreund’s visit was to exchange opinions on AI research. Through activities including an introductory overview by Dr. TSUJII Junichi, Director-General of the Artificial Intelligence Research Center (AIRC), both sides deepened their mutual understanding of one another’s efforts in this field. Additional discussions were held concerning future collaborations.
The visitors also toured the Cyber Physical Systems Research Unit, AIST’s new center for AI research.
Signing ceremony for the comprehensive MOU between AIST and NRC Canada
October 9th, 2019
On October 9th ,2019, Dr. CHUBACHI Ryoji and Mr. Iain Stewart, President of AIST and the National Research Council Canada (NRC), respectively, signed a comprehensive memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two institutes in a ceremony at AIST Tokyo Headquarters.
This MOU is a consequence of the meeting between Presidents CHUBACHI and Stewart in September 2017, where both sides agreed to consider ways in which interorganizational collaboration might be strengthened. The joint workshops held this year, first in Japan, then in Canada, ultimately led to the conclusion of the MOU.
NRC is central to Canada’s scientific research. Thanks to this MOU, collaboration is anticipated in a wide variety of research fields, including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital technologies, human factors, life science, nanotechnology, and metrology standards.
Visit by H.E. Mr. Sanjay Kumar Verma, Ambassador of India to Japan
October 7th, 2019
On October 7th, 2019, AIST Tsukuba Center welcomed H.E. Mr. Sanjay Kumar Verma, Ambassador of India to Japan.
In addition to his tour of DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), a joint AIST-DBT research laboratory, Mr. Verma met with AIST’s Dr. MIKI Yukinobu, Senior Vice-President, Dr. MATSUOKA Katsunori, Vice-President and Director General of the Department of Life Science & Biotechnology, and Dr. TAMURA Tomohiro, Director of the Research Promotion Division of Life Science and Biotechnology, to discuss research collaboration between India and Japan.
Mr. Verma also interacted with DAILAB researchers, including taking part in a group photo.
Ceremony for the Signing of a Comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding with The University of Auckland, New Zealand
September 20th, 2019
On September 20th, 2019, a ceremony for the signing of a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) and The University of Auckland took place at Conrad Tokyo. AIST President Dr. Chubachi, and Dr. Shenk, Chief Executive of Auckland UniServices Limited*, signed the MOU in the presence of the Rt. Hon. Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand.
The University of Auckland boasts faculties in Engineering, Science, and Medical and Health Sciences, among others. It is a truly international university with staff and students from 110 countries worldwide.
Under this new MOU, both parties will collaborate closely within a broad spectrum from basic to applied research, in the technological fields of robotics, AI, advanced materials, and energy.
In conjunction with the MOU, a collaborative agreement among companies was also concluded on the same occasion. In her remarks, Prime Minister Ardern complimented the strengthening of cooperative relations between New Zealand and Japan as bringing significant profit to both countries. As regards the MOU with AIST, the Prime Minister highlighted the meaningfulness of forming a new partnership in a variety of research areas, conducting R&D that makes the most of each institute’s strengths.
*Auckland UniServices Ltd. is a corporation with the authority to conclude MOUs for The University of Auckland.
Signing ceremony for the renewal of the comprehensive MOU between TISTR and AIST
September 3rd, 2019
A signing ceremony for the renewal of the comprehensive MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) between TISTR (Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research) and AIST was held at AIST Tsukuba on September 3rd, 2019, with Dr. Ryoji Chubachi and Dr. Chutima Eamchotchawalit, President of AIST and Governor of TISTR, respectively, as the signatories.
Notable witnesses of the ceremony were Dr. Satoshi Sekiguchi and Dr. Katsunori Matsuoka, both Vice-Presidents of AIST, Dr. Yoshihiro Ohmiya, Prime Senior Researcher of AIST, and Mr. Wirach Chantra, Deputy Governor of TISTR.
This is the 3rd renewal of the comprehensive MOU originally concluded in November, 2004. Both institutes will continue to maintain and develop collaboration mainly in the fields of energy, environment, life science, biotechnology, and measurement standards.
The ceremony preceded an introduction of AIST’s research activities with a focus on life science and biotechnology, an area of particular interest to Dr. Chutima. This was followed by lab tours on, “Engineering of Plant Metabolic Pathway,” and “Pro-Herb Functional Food Products from TISTR Probiotics and Herbal Plants.”
Dr. Chutima had questions regarding the utilization by overseas institutes of AIST’s Open Innovation Platform, where companies etc. can make use of AIST’s R&D facilities and equipment. Moreover, throughout the lab tours, Dr. Chutima paid close attention to the explanations by researchers, and inspected the laboratories with great interest.
Ceremony for the renewal of the MOU between AIST and NIST
July 1st, 2019
On July 1st, 2019, a ceremony for the renewal of the MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) between AIST and NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S.A.) was held at AIST Tokyo Headquarters, where Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, and Dr. Walter Copan, Director of NIST, signed the renewed document.
Since the comprehensive MOU was first concluded in May of 2009, both institutions have collaborated not only in measurement standards, but also in life science and biotechnology, energy and environment, and nanotechnology materials chemistry. Under this renewed MOU, information technology and artificial intelligence, as well as electronics and manufacturing have been added to the collaboration areas.
In their remarks during the signing ceremony, Dr. Chubachi and Dr. Copan highlighted the imperativeness of standardization efforts in implementing research, and reaffirmed the intentions of both institutions to collaborate closely with one another.
On July 1st, Dr. Copan interacted with Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President of AIST, and Dr. Takashi Usuda and Dr. Toshiyuki Fujimoto, Director General and Deputy Director General respectively of NMIJ (National Metrology Institute of Japan) during his visit to AIST Tsukuba Center. The day after, on July 2nd, Dr. Copan met with Dr. Satoshi Sekiguchi, Vice-President of AIST, Dr. Tagui Ichikawa, Director-General of AIST Tokyo Waterfront, and Dr. Jun'ichi Tsujii, Director of AIRC (Artificial Intelligence Research Center), among others. During both visits, Dr. Copan toured the various research facilities pertaining to each of the research fields.
Visit by the French Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, accompanied by the heads of prominent research institutes
June 27th, 2019
On June 27th, 2019, a French Delegation of 25 persons lead by Prof. Frédérique Vidal, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, and which included the heads of prominent research institutes visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront. In the presence of Mr. Yuji Iida, Director-General of the Industrial Science and Technology Policy and Environment Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan, the visitors were welcomed by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi and Dr. Satoshi Sekiguchi, President and Vice-President respectively of AIST. Also during the visit, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Information Communications Technology including artificial intelligence between AIST and France’s National Institute of Computer Science and Applied Mathematics (INRIA) was unveiled.
In his greeting remarks, Dr. Chubachi welcomed the visit by Prof. Vidal, as well as unveiling of the MOU between AIST and INRIA. Subsequently, Dr. Sekiguchi gave an overview both of AIST as a whole and of AIST Tokyo Waterfront, while Dr. Junichi Tsujii, Director-General of the Artificial Intelligence Research Center (AIST-AIRC), introduced AIST’s AI research activities.
In her comments, Prof. Vidal referred to France’s AI strategies, and the values shared between her country and Japan. The Minister commended the MOU between AIST and INRIA as being vital to promoting collaboration in AI, and stressed the need for an international approach with regard to AI research cooperation.
In the MOU unveiling ceremony which followed, Dr. Jean-Frédéric Gerbeau, Deputy Director-General of INRIA, and Dr. Sekiguchi presented the signed MOU to much applause.
Afterwards, the Minister and her delegation visited AIST’s recently inaugurated AI research facility, namely, the Cyber Physical Systems Research Facility.
Visit by Dr. Antoine Petit, Chairman and CEO, CNRS, France
June 26th, 2019
On June 26th, 2019, Dr. Antoine Petit, Chairman and CEO of the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) and his delegation visited AIST Tsukuba Center, where he toured AIST-CNRS JRL (Joint Robotics Laboratory), an AIST-CNRS joint international research laboratory.
Welcome remarks by Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President, and Dr. Satoshi Sekiguchi, Vice-President, preceded an overview of JRL by Dr. Eiichi Yoshida, Director of the Research Planning Office, Research Promotion Division, Department of Information Technology and Human Factors. Later, the visitors showed considerable interest in the examples given of the joint research outcomes of AIST and CNRS, namely, demonstrations of wearable assistive device evaluation by humanoid robots, humanoid robot activities in an assembly scenario for Airbus, and the robotic arm.
The lab visit also included interactions between Dr. Petit and the French researchers working at AIST, wherein they discussed automation through humanoid utilization.
Dr. Petit expressed his pleasure with researchers not only from Japan and France, but also from other countries, working together at JRL and producing positive results.
Visit by the Federal Minister of Education and Research as well as Heads of Leading Research Institutes from Germany
April 16th, 2019
On April 16th, 2019, a delegation of 19 persons lead by Ms. Anja Karliczek, Federal Minister of Education and Research, and which included members of the German Bundestag and the heads of leading German research institutes, visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters.
Dr. Ryoji Chubachi (President) gave an overview of AIST, highlighting the history of its establishment, as well as the collaboration between research institutes of Germany and Japan.
With Fraunhofer, Leibniz and Helmholtz being represented by their respective leaders, with whom AIST has either concluded Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) or have had occasion to participate in the same international workshops, Dr. Chubachi also introduced AIST’s collaborative activities with these institutes to the Federal Minister during his remarks.
Ms. Karliczek refered to Germany’s national policy toward increasing AI application in industry, and expressed her desire to strongly support bilateral collaborative activities between Germany and Japan. In response, Dr. Chubachi introduced AIST’s collaboration currently in progress with the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI), as well as the new AIST center for AI research, the Cyber Physical Systems Research Facility at AIST Tokyo Waterfront, which recently began full operations.
Visit by H.E. Ms. Carrie Lam, Chief Executive of Hong Kong
October 30th, 2018
On October 30th, 2018, a delegation from Hong Kong Special Administrative Region led by H.E. Ms. Carrie Lam, Chief Executive of Hong Kong, visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Ms. Lam arrived in Japan to participate in an event held in Tokyo on November 1st, and visited AIST as part of her considerable interest in science and technology.
Welcome remarks by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, and an introductory overview of AIST by Dr. Koichi Awazu, Deputy Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division, were followed by a discussion session with Dr. Satoshi Sekiguchi, Vice-President, also taking part.
The Chief Executive had questions regarding AIST’s “bridging” activities, to which Dr. Chubachi responded that, of the 27 national research institutes in Japan, AIST is the only one dedicated to bridging the gap between technology and innovation as part of its mission, and explained the role of innovation coordinators toward fulfilling said mission.
Ms. Lam also had questions regarding research collaborations, and Dr. Sekiguchi and Dr. Awazu gave examples of AIST’s international collaborations.
The delegation then toured both the Science Square and AIST’s Super Clean Room, and were highly interested in AIST’s research achievements as well as our Open Innovation Platforms and their functions.
Visit by Dr. Edwin Liu, President of the Industrial Technology Research Institute of Taiwan
September 7th, 2018
On September 7th, 2018, Dr. Edwin Liu, President of the Industrial Technology Research Institute of Taiwan (ITRI) visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Dr. Liu succeeded his predecessor as President in April of this year, and this is his first visit to AIST. Welcome remarks by Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President of AIST, were followed by an overview of AIST by Dr. Koichi Awazu, Deputy Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division. There were additional overviews of AIST’s National Metrology Institute of Japan (NMIJ) and of AIST’s energy research activities by Dr. Miki and Dr. Tetsuhiko Kobayashi, Vice-President respectively, and were followed by tours of relevant research laboratories. AIST and ITRI have an ongoing collaboration in the metrology and energy research fields.
Dr. Liu expressed his desire to further promote research collaboration between AIST and ITRI and to cultivate a win-win relationship.
Dr. Liu also visited the AIST-ITRI R&D Collaboration Space established last August, where among other things, he examined its administrative functions.
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| (Dr. Edwin Liu, President of ITRI, 3rd from the left) |
Visit by H.E. Mr. Martin Tlapa, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and H. E. Mr. Tomáš Dub, Ambassador, the Czech Republic
June 5th and 6th, 2018
On June 5th and 6th, 2018, Mr. Martin Tlapa, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Mr. Tomáš Dub, Ambassador, Embassy of the Czech Republic to Japan, and their delegation visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront and AIST Tsukuba Center, respectively.
The visit to AIST Tsukuba Center on June 6th began with greeting remarks by Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President of AIST, Mr. Tlapa and Mr. Dub. Subsequently, Dr. Koichi Awazu, Deputy Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division, gave an introductory overview of AIST, and Dr. Tetsuji Yasuda, Deputy Director General, Research Promotion Division, Department of Electronics and Manufacturing, introduced his department’s research activities.
Previously, on June 5th, the delegation visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront, where its Director General, Dr. Yasukazu Yoshida, gave an overview of the research base, while Dr. Tagui Ichikawa, Deputy Director General, Research Promotion Division for Artificial Intelligence, Department of Information Technology and Human Factors, introduced AIST research activities on Artificial Intelligence.
Mr. Tlapa and Mr. Dub both expressed interest in AIST’s collaboration with companies, as well as in the industrial application of its research achievements, and were enthusiastic throughout the lab tours.
Visit by H.E. Mr. Gediminas Varvuolis, Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to Japan
May 28th, 2018
On May 28th, 2018, H.E. Mr. Gediminas Varvuolis, Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to Japan, visited AIST Tsukuba.
Welcome remarks by Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President, were followed by an introductory overview of AIST and a guided tour of AIST Science Square and its exhibit of AIST’s latest research achievements by Dr. Koichi Awazu, Deputy Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division, and a guided tour of the Geological Museum by its director, Dr. Osamu Fujiwara.
The Ambassador spoke of the progress made in Lithuania in bioengineering and laser engineering, and he was therefore interested in AIST’s research activities in these areas.
Moreover, His Excellency showed significant interest in the exhibits highlighting AIST’s research achievements at AIST Science Square and the Geological Museum.
Visit by University Authorities from the Federal Republic of Germany
March 20th, 2018
On March 20th, 2018, a delegation of 22 university authorities from the Federal Republic of Germany visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Welcome remarks by Dr. Chubachi (President) were followed by greetings from Dr. Ulrich Grothus, Deputy Secretary General of German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). In it, Dr. Grothus explained that, in light of university management reforms, it is necessary to promote the globalization and the acquisition of funding in universities, hence the delegation’s interest in globalization strategies of Japanese research institutes and universities, as well as collaboration between research institutes and universities. Dr. Chubachi, along with Dr. Sekiguchi (Vice-President) and the deputy director generals of each of AIST’s research departments, responded by introducing AIST’s establishment history, its vision, its 4th Medium Term Plan, its “bridging” function or commercialization of technology seeds.
Dr. Chubachi highlighted AIST’s relations both in joint research and personnel exchanges not only with Germany’s public research institutes but also its universities. He further spoke of his desire to take this opportunity to further develop collaborative ties with members of Germany’s academic community.
Visit by H.E. Dr. Ahmad bin Abdullah Humaid Belhoul AL FALASI, Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills, the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
March 5th, 2018
On March 5th, 2018, a delegation lead by H.E. Dr. Ahmad bin Abdullah Humaid Belhoul AL FALASI, U.A.E. Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills, visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Greetings by Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President, were followed by an overview presentation on AIST by Dr. Natsuko Sakai, Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division.
There were questions from the Minister regarding research collaborations between AIST and universities as well as SMEs. He also expressed his interest in Japan as a research base for students from his own country.
Dr. Miki explained that AIST is a public institution whose mission is to “bridge” the gap between the creation of technologies and their practical realization, and thus, collaboration with universities and companies—including SMEs—is essential.
Visit by H.E. Dr. Suvit Maesincee, Minister of Science and Technology, and Distinguished Delegation from Thailand, AIST booth at Nano tech 2018
February 14th, 2018
On February 14th, 2018, H.E. Dr. Suvit Maesincee, Minister of Science and Technology, Thailand and his delegation, visited the AIST booth at Nano tech 2018, which was held at Tokyo Big Sight.
There, AIST President Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, Senior Vice-President Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Vice-President Dr. Norimitsu Murayama, and researchers in charge introduced our special exhibit, namely, “Environment Harmonizing Materials / Processes for SDGs ～AIST origin CERO Technology～” with a focus on our nanomaterials research.
Dr. Suvit Maesincee showed considerable interest in AIST’s research activities, and had many questions regarding the commercialization of nanomaterials and company collaboration.
AIST has concluded comprehensive Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) and Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR). It is anticipated that opportunities such as the Minister’s visit will serve to further expand our research collaboration.
Visit by His Excellency Mr. Inoussa Moustapha, Ambassador of the Republic of Niger to Japan
January 26th, 2018
On January 26th, 2018, His Excellency Mr. Inoussa Moustapha, Ambassador of the Republic of Niger to Japan, visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Following welcome remarks by Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-president of AIST, Dr. Kazuhiro Yamamoto, Director of the Global Collaboration Office, gave an overview of AIST, and later introduced some of AIST’s research activities during a tour of Science Square.
The Ambassador stated that cultivating the younger generation in the Republic of Niger is essential, and that he would like to consider their training at Japanese research institutions and universities.
Further, with his questions regarding commercialized devices during his tour of Science Square, His Excellency showed significant interest in AIST’s research activities.
Visit by Mr. Soren Stjernqvist, President, Danish Technological Institute to AIST
January 16th, 2018
On January 16th, 2018, Mr. Soren Stjernqvist, President of the Danish Technological Institute, and his delegation visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Welcome remarks and an introductory overview of AIST by Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President, and Dr. Koichi Awazu, Deputy Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division, respectively of AIST, were followed by an interactive discussion on robotics research among other topics with Dr. Kazuhito Yokoi, Deputy Director General of the Department of Information Technology and Human Factors.
Both parties then traveled to the Robot Safety Center, where its overview was given by Dr. Kohtaro Ohba, Deputy Director of the Robot Innovation Research Center.
AIST and DTI have conducted joint researches in robot safety, and both parties engaged in discussions through explanations and inspections of AIST’s healthcare robots, assistive robots and humanoid robots.
As demonstrated by their questions regarding AIST’s budget, company collaboration, and the flow of personnel between organizations, the DTI delegation showed great interest not only in AIST’s research activities, but also in its management policies.
Visit by Dr. Girish Sahni, Director General, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), India
January 16th, 2018
On January 16th, 2018, a delegation from India’s Council for Scientific and Industrial research (CSIR) lead by its Director General, Dr. Girish Sahni, visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Welcome remarks by Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President of AIST, were followed by an overview and accompanying lab tour of AIST’s Minimal-fab research—an area of interest to the CSIR delegation—by Dr. Shiro Hara, Prime Senior Researcher, Nanoelectronics Research Institute.
In his discussion with Dr. Miki, Dr. Girish Sahni addressed a number of questions regarding the handling of patents and research funds between AIST and Japanese government/universities/private enterprises. There were, moreover, technical questions from the Director General throughout the Minimal-fab overview and lab tour, as well as suggestions for personnel exchanges through technical training.
Visit by H.E. Ms. Ohood Al Roumi, Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing, the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
December 22nd, 2017
On December 22nd, 2017, H. E. Ms. Ohood Al Roumi, Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing, and Director General of the UAE Prime Minister’s Office, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and her delegation visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront.
Welcome remarks by Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President of AIST, preceded introductory overviews of both AIST as a whole and AIST Tokyo Waterfront by Dr. Kozo Uto, Director General of AIST Tokyo Waterfront, and Dr. Koichi Awazu, Deputy Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division. Next, Dr. Junichi Tsujii, Director of AIST’s Artificial Intelligence Research Center, and Dr. Masaaki Mochimaru, Director of Human Informatics Research Institute, gave overview presentations on their respective organizations with a view to addressing the Minister’s area of interest; namely, technologies of the future. These were followed by tours of labs wherein research on neurocommunicator and prosthetic legs are being conducted.
During the ensuing discussions, the Minister spoke of the need for S&T research in UAE, and of the country’s consequent desire for future collaboration with AIST.
Visit by Prof. Vladimír Šucha, Director-General, JRC
October 3rd, 2017
On October 3rd, 2017, Prof. Vladimír Šucha, Director-General, the Joint Research Centre (JRC), European Commission, and his delegation visited AIST Tsukuba Center.
Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, and Prof. Šucha were signatories of a comprehensive MOU between AIST and JRC in a ceremony held in Brussels, Belgium in May of this year.
This visit focused on areas of particular interest for JRC, namely, energy and artificial intelligence, with introductions of research activities by the Deputy Director General of the Department of Energy and Environment, Dr. Haruhiko Obara, and other relevant AIST researchers. Prof. Šucha expressed his desire for a proactive research collaboration including personnel exchanges, particularly in photovoltaics, battery, and hydrogen storage technology safety.
Prof. Šucha also met briefly with Dr. Chubachi and Dr. Satoshi Sekiguchi, Vice-President of AIST, during the STS Forum in Kyoto on October 1st, 2017.
*References: “Signing Ceremony for MOU with JRC (Joint Research Center), European Commission” from Topics 2017
Visit by the UK’s Minister of State for Digital
September 21st, 2017
On September 21st, 2017, a delegation lead by The Rt Hon Matt Hancock MP, Minister of State for Digital, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront.
Greetings by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, were followed by overviews of AIST by Dr. Natsuko Sakai, Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division, and of the Artificial Intelligence Research Center (AIRC) by its director, Dr. Jun’ichi Tsujii.
In response to Dr. Chubachi’s remarks regarding AIST’s fruitful research collaboration and personnel exchanges with the UK’s Sheffield University, the Minister expressed his hopes for the establishment of collaboration with UK research institutions in the field of artificial intelligence. The minister was further impressed with the high level of our robotics research, and was additionally interested in our collaboration with industries.
AIST-DLR MOU Signing Ceremony
September 21st, 2017
On September 21st, 2017, Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, and Prof. Pascale Ehrenfreund and Mr. Bernhard Milow, President and Program Director for Energy Research at the German Aerospace Center, respectively, signed a specific MOU in a ceremony held at AIST Tsukuba Center.
Dr. Chubachi and Prof. Ehrenfreund already concluded a comprehensive MOU* between AIST and DLR in Hanover, Germany in March of this year. The conclusion of separate joint research contracts on Lithium-ion battery technology and Thermoelectric conversion material technology were coordinated to coincide with Prof. Ehrenfreund’s visit.
Thanks to the joint research contracts, acceleration in energy R&D, and consequent resolution of societal challenges through technology application may be anticipated.
Following the meeting with Dr. Chubachi, Prof. Ehrenfreund and her delegation engaged in dynamic discussions with Dr. Tetsuhiko Kobayashi, Vice-President, Dr. Kazuhito Yokoi, Deputy Director General of the Research Promotion Division of the Department of Information Technology and Human Factors, and AIST researchers through overviews of pertinent research activities and lab tours.
*References: “Conclusion of MOU with German Aerospace Research Center (DLR) and the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI),” Topics 2016
AIST-A*STAR MOU Signing Ceremony
September 15th, 2017
On September 15th, 2017, Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, and Mr. LIM Chuan Poh, Chairman of the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between AIST and A*STAR in a ceremony at AIST Tokyo Waterfront.
The MOU was concluded to facilitate the acceleration of Artificial Intelligence R&D, an area which both institutions have focused on in recent years.
In his speech during the ceremony, Dr. Chubachi stated that, under this MOU, AIST and A*STAR will accelerate R&D on AI, high-performance computer and computer science through mutual collaboration, and thereby solve social matters and boost the competitiveness of Asia by making full use of AI technologies.
Following the signing ceremony, there were presentations by the relevant researchers on the AI R&D pertaining to the acceleration of Big Data processing, and the general purpose humanoid robot “Mahoro,” all of which generated a great deal of interest and lively discussions.
AIST-ITRI R&D Collaboration Space Opening Ceremony
August 3rd, 2017
On August 3rd, 2017, a ceremony was held marking the opening of the AIST-ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute) R&D Collaboration Space.
Participants included Dr. Pei-Zen Chang, Executive Vice President of ITRI, and Dr. Ta-Sheng Lo, Acting Director General of the Department of Industrial Technology, Ministry of Economic Affairs(DOIT/MOEA) from Taiwan, and Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Senior Vice-President and Dr. Koji Watari, Director-General of Research and Innovation Promotion Headquarters respectively of AIST, along with researchers from both institutions. Each of the dignitaries applauded the results of the joint symposiums conducted to date, and spoke of their anticipation for relations between the two institutions to be further strengthened through the establishment of the R&D Collaboration Space.
In a meeting which took place prior to the opening ceremony, Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, expressed his own hopes that research collaboration between AIST and ITRI will continue to develop and evolve thanks to the R&D Collaboration Space.
The R&D Collaboration Space was created in order to meet the need for an environment wherein researchers from both institutions can be in regular contact at a facility in close proximity to the labs, thereby further strengthening research collaboration between AIST and ITRI.
Visit by His Excellency Dr. Gang Wan, Minister of Science and Technology (MOST), People's Republic of China
July 4th, 2017
On July 4th, 2017, His Excellency Dr. Gang Wan, the Minister of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China, and his delegation visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront.
The short visit included greetings by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, an overview by Dr. Satoshi Sekiguchi on AIST's Artificial Intelligence Research Center, an overview of AIST Tokyo Waterfront by its Director General, Dr. Kozo Uto, and a tour of the Life Technology Studio.
In his own greeting remarks, the Minister explained that many projects are being conducted in accordance with the science and technology cooperation agreement concluded in 1980, and that MOST has been supporting joint research projects with AIST, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), and RIKEN. The Minister further highlighted the importance of collaborating with companies for the commercialization of science and technology R&D outcomes.
According to the Minister, China especially needs to strengthen its own collaboration with companies, and there are numerous factors to be considered, such as how the internet will change the lives of human kind, how to link science and technology with innovation, and how to encourage the young generation to contribute to innovation.
Moreover, China is considering strengthening the artificial intelligence, automated driving, and life healthcare research fields in the future.
MOU concludes with High Tech Campus Eindhoven (HTCE)
May 19th, 2017
On May 19th, 2017, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between High Tech Campus Eindhoven (HTCE) of the Netherlands and AIST was concluded in a signing ceremony at AIST Tsukuba Center. The signing of the MOU by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, and Dr. Cees Admiraal, Director Business Development, HTCE, was witnessed by Mr. Mikito Kezuka, Deputy Mayor of Tsukuba City, and Mr. Bert Pauli, Vice-Governor Economic Affairs, Province of Noord-Brabant.
HTCE’s formerly Philips-owned research-related facilities are open to various companies and research organizations, and operate as an independent center for open innovation. Currently, its 1km2 campus is home to more than 135 companies and research institutes, with 10,000 (ten-thousand) researchers, developers and entrepreneurs from 85 countries gathered there for research and development.
In accordance with this MOU, AIST and HTCE will establish centers for company collaboration on one another’s premises, thereby serving as stepping stones for both institutions to expand their collaboration with global companies. In addition, AIST will establish joint research projects that will meet the needs of European markets with the 135+ companies and European research institutes based at HTCE with a view to industrializing AIST technologies overseas. Moreover, AIST and HTCE will exchange knowhow concerning the establishment and management of centers for collaboration toward further globalization and business expansion.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Chubachi spoke of the commitment by AIST and HTCE as leaders in the cultivation of a sustainable society through collaboration in the advancement of centers for open innovation, as well as of his conviction that such a collaboration will lead to the strengthening of relations between both regions, not to mention for both the Netherlands and Japan. This was followed by remarks by Dr. Admiraal, in which he stated that, with the importance of relations between Japan and the Netherlands, the conclusion of this MOU will contribute significantly toward the growth of science and technology research collaboration of both countries.
Both Mr. Kezuka and Mr. Pauli, who attended the ceremony as witnesses, spoke of how the conclusion of an MOU between two representative research institutes from both countries is a celebratory occasion, and expressed their hopes for said MOU to play a key part in promoting R&D collaboration.
Visit by Dr. Mary English, Spouse of the Prime Minister of New Zealand, to AIST
May 17th, 2017
On May 17th, 2017, Dr. Mary English, Spouse of the Prime Minister of New Zealand, visited AIST Robot Safety Center as part of her tour of Japan in the company of her husband.
Dr. English was highly interested in discussions with researchers and examining devices relevant to the utilization of robots in medicine.
In this short visit, an overview of AIST by Dr. Natsuko Sakai, Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division, and a further overview of the Robot Innovation Research Center by its Director, Dr. Hirohisa Hirukawa, were followed by live demonstrations of assistive robots targeted for the elderly. Both the presentations and demonstrations were designed with a view to facilitating a high interest and fruitful discussions concerning AIST’s research activities in assistive robotics research.
Dr. English commented that the visit enabled her to gain a clearer insight into the growing challenges surrounding geriatric care in Japan.
Visit by H.E. Mr. Ofir Akunis, Minister of Science, Technology and Space, and H. E. Ms. Ruth Kahanoff, Ambassador, to Japan
March 23rd, 2017
The Israeli delegation led by H.E. Mr. Ofir Akunis, Minister of Science, Technology and Space, and H. E. Ms. Ruth Kahanoff, Ambassador, visited AIST Tsukuba on March 23rd, 2017.
Greetings by Dr. Chubachi, President and Dr. Yasunaga, Vice-President respectively of AIST , and an introductory overview of AIST were followed by a tour of Science Square.
The Minister spoke of highly talented Israeli researchers in the field of Artificial Intelligence, and Dr. Chubachi and Dr. Yasunaga in turn expressed AIST's interest in collaborating with such gifted researchers from Israel.
Moreover, the delegation examined AIST's latest research achievements exhibited at the Science Square with great interest.
Visit by H.E. Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth, Minister of Economy and Finance of the Kingdom of Cambodia
February 10th, 2017
A delegation led by H.E. Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth, Minister of Economy and Finance of the Kingdom of Cambodia, visited AIST Tsukuba Center on February 10th, 2017.
The welcome speech was given by Dr. Toshihiko Kanayama, Senior Vice-President, and Dr. Koichi Awazu, Deputy Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division, gave an overview presentation on AIST. There were questions by the minister on the specifics regarding research collaboration with companies, ways of collaborating with SMEs, and success examples, to all of which Dr. Kanayama and Dr. Eikichi Tsukuda, Vice-President, responded by introducing AIST's joint research facilities and the activities of our regional research bases located throughout Japan.
Next, in response to the Minister's interest in information communication and robots, researchers specializing in these fields gave a demonstration of the Mobile Robot and the Autonomous Wheelchair. Dr. Pornmoniroth gained first-hand experience of AIST's achievements in mobility research by taking a turn with the Autonomous Wheelchair.
Throughout the tour of the Science Square which followed, the Minister showed considerable interest in AIST's research activities, as evidenced by his questions on specific details regarding the research achievements being exhibited.
Visit by His Excellency Mr. Sujan R. Chinoy, Ambassador of India to Japan
November 29th, 2016
His Excellency Mr. Sujan R. Chinoy, Ambassador of India to Japan, visited AIST Tsukuba Center on November 29th, 2016.
Greetings by Dr. Toshihiko Kanayama, Senior Vice-President, and an overview of AIST by Dr. Natsuko Sakai, Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division, were followed by a tour of DAILAB, our joint laboratory with India's Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and the Science Square.
The Ambassador expressed his pleasure regarding the active role played by Indian researchers at AIST, as well as his hope that their role will continue to expand in the future. His Excellency greeted Indian and Chinese researchers at DAILAB, and through his questions throughout his tour of the Science Square, where examples of our research achievements are exhibited, His Excellency showed considerable interest in AIST's research activities.
Visit of H.E. Dr. Pichet Durongkaveroj, Minister of Science and Technology, and Distinguished Delegates from Thailand
September 30th, 2016
His Excellency Dr. Pichet Durongkaveroj, Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Narong Sirilertworakul, President of the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Dr. Luxsamee Plangsangmas, Governor of Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR) and members of their delegation from Thailand, visited AIST Tokyo Waterfront on September 30th, 2016.
In his greeting remarks, President Dr. Chubachi spoke of AIST's joint efforts with NSTDA and TISTR to promote innovation in Asia, and of the close partnership among research institutes of both countries. During the subsequent discussions, both sides confirmed the direction of collaboration regarding the development of high-value functional foods, and agreed to continue working toward their future development.
This was then followed by overviews of the Molecular Profiling Research Center for Drug Discovery, and the Artificial Intelligence Research Center, both research centers specializing in the core areas of research being conducted at AIST Tokyo Waterfront, as well as a demonstration of the "Mahoro" LabDroid. The minister was greatly interested in Mahoro's role in creating innovation through its implementation in the biomedical field, in which the ability to execute high-precision, complex tasks is required.
Visit by Prof. Acad. Chau Van Minh, President of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) and his Delegation to AIST
September 13th, 2016
Prof. Academician Chau Van Minh, President of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Mr. Nguyen The Phuong, Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment, and their delegation visited AIST Tsukuba on September 13th, 2016.
The aim of this particular visit to Japan was to conduct discussions with the relevant government agencies with a view to promote the concept of a Vietnam-Japan Center of Advanced Technology. Indeed, Prof. Acad. Minh and Mr. Phuong gave an introductory overview of this concept following the greetings by Vice-President Dr. Tsukuda.
Two AIST researchers from Vietnam also met the delegation and introduced their respective research activities.
The delegation then visited our Geological Museum and Science Square.
AIST and VAST have concluded a comprehensive MOU (Memorandum of Understanding), and have conducted joint research in such fields as water treatment technology, geological sciences, and information security.
Renewal of Comprehensive MOU between ITRI and AIST
August 26th, 2016
Vice President Dr. Jia-Ruey Duann of ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute of Taiwan) and his delegation visited AIST Tsukuba Center on August 26th, 2016. Following the greeting remarks by Vice-President Dr. Seto and Dr. Duann, both participated in the signing ceremony for the renewal of the comprehensive MOU between ITRI and AIST. This is the second time the MOU has been renewed between the two institutions since it was first concluded in September of 2005, and was subsequently renewed in 2011. 5 workshops have been conducted to date with ITRI, and our joint research activities have yielded results in such fields as energy and information.
Subsequently, there were overview presentations by both sides on measurement standards, which included discussions with Vice-President Dr. Miki participating. There were also presentations on robotics technology development by Dr. Hirukawa, Director of AIST’s Robot Innovation Research Center, and Dr. Jwu-Sheng Hu, Vice President of ITRI, and General Director of ITRI-MMSL (Mechanical and Mechatronics Systems Research Laboratories). It is hoped that the renewal of the comprehensive MOU between ITRI and AIST will lead to further joint activities in the form of workshops, etc, which will in turn serve to strengthen the collaborative research relations mutually complimentary to both ITRI and AIST.
Visit of H.E. Dr. Somkid Jatusripitak, Deputy Prime Minister, and Distinguished Guests from Thailand
June 1st, 2016
H.E. Dr. Somkid Jatusripitak, Deputy Prime Minister, H.E. Mr. Suvit Maesincee, Deputy Minister of Commerce, H.E. Mr. Bansarn Bunnag, Ambassador of Thailand, and distinguished guests visited AIST’s Robot Safety Center on June 1st, 2016.
The visit, which was organized by Tsukuba City, began with welcome remarks by Deputy Governor Kusuda of Ibaraki Prefecture and Mayor Ichihara of Tsukuba City. Subsequently, in his own welcome remarks, Dr. Chubachi, President of AIST, spoke of Thailand being an important partner for AIST, as it plays a central role in Asian innovation.
The delegation then inspected the facilities for verifying the safety of robots, where they tried out the assistive mobility robots, and showed considerable interest in the center and its activities as a whole.
Finally, the Deputy Prime Minister spoke concerning the need for collaboration with companies in order to promote innovation, and of his desire for Thailand to cooperate closely with AIST; an institution that continues to take the initiative in this area.
[ROBOT SAFETY CENTER]
The Robot Safety Center, a center for safety certification and testing, as well as the consolidation of international safety standards, was founded in December, 2010, for the purpose of establishing interpersonal safety technologies for assistive living robots.
Visit of the G7 Science and Technology Ministers
May 16th, 2016
Ministers and accompanying guests from member countries participating in the G7 Science and Technology Ministers Meeting held in Tsukuba visited AIST Tsukuba on May 16th, 2016.
In President Dr. Chubachi’s greeting speech, and Senior Vice-President Dr. Kanayama’s overview of AIST, both explained how, in addition to generating research outcomes, AIST considers bridging said outcomes to commercialization to be its greatest mission, as well as AIST's involvement in the management of open innovation hubs, which include FREA (Fukushima Renewable Energy Institute, AIST) and TIA, a global center for nanotechnology research. They further explained the necessity for global collaboration in order to find solutions to challenges toward realizing a sustainable society, and with that in mind, AIST has established joint research laboratories with institutions in Germany and India among others.
The delegation then visited the Joint Robotics Laboratory established in partnership with France, and a leading example of international collaboration at AIST. There, the visitors were given live demonstrations of healthcare robots, disaster response robots, and humanoid robots in action. The ministers led by Mr. Shimajiri, Japanese Minister for Science and Technology, were fascinated by the smooth, human-like motion displayed by the robots, thus experiencing for themselves the progress in science and technology.
Visit of H.E. Mrs. Atchaka Sibunruang, Minister of Industry, Thailand
May 16th, 2016
H.E. Mrs. Atchaka Sibunruang, Minister of Industry, Thailand, Mr. Yongvut Saovapruk, President of the National Food Institute, and accompanying guests visited AIST Tsukuba on May 16th, 2016.
In the meeting with Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, both sides acknowledged the progress of joint research activities to date with NSTDA (National Science and Technology Development Agency) and TISTR (Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research), with whom AIST has concluded a comprehensive MOU, and also discussed future expansion of collaboration.
The delegation then visited AIST Science Square, TIA Collaboration Center’s exhibition hall, and the Super Clean Room, where they were given a guided tour by representatives of the respective facilities.
Mrs. Atchaka Sibunruang showed considerable interest in the advanced research content, and her enthusiasm throughout the tour was apparent, for instance, in her allusion to joint researches with industries.
Renewal of the Comprehensive MOU with VTT
March 9th, 2016
The signing ceremony for the renewal of the Comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (Comprehensive MOU) between AIST and VTT (Technical Research Centre of Finland) was held at Mita Kaigisho, Tokyo on March 9th, 2016, The ceremony was conducted in the presence of H.E. Mr. Makoto Katsura, Ambassador for Science and Technology Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Japan, and H.E. Mr. Jari Gustafsson, Permanent Vice Minister of the Ministry of Employment and the Economy (MEE) of the Republic of Finland, with Dr. Toshihiko Kanayama, Senior Vice-President of AIST, and Prof. Anne-Christine Ritschkoff, Executive Vice President of VTT as the signatories. This is the second time the Comprehensive MOU has been renewed since its initial conclusion in February, 2006, and subsequent renewal in 2011.
The signing ceremony was held as part of the 6th Meeting of the Japan-Finland Joint Committee on Cooperation in Science and Technology. With H.E. Mr. Katsura and H.E. Mr. Gustafsson as co-chairs, members of government ministries, funding agencies and research institutes of both countries exchanged information and opinions on recent science, technology and innovation (STI) policies.
VTT is a public research institute that plays a central role in Finland’s industrial development. It is the largest multidisciplinary industrial technology research institute in Northern Europe with around 1,800 researchers, and conducts research in such fields as information technology, electronics, applied materials, energy, and biotechnology. Areas in which AIST and VTT have collaborated to date include energy, biotechnology, product manufacturing, and IT. From the time the Comprehensive MOU was first concluded in 2006, collaborations have taken place in the form of joint international research and researcher exchange. Moreover, several administrative staff from AIST visited VTT in February of this year to exchange information on administration.
Continued collaboration through workshops, and the strengthening of collaborative research relations mutually complimentary to AIST and VTT is being anticipated through the renewal of the Comprehensive MOU.
Visit of H.E. Dr. Somkid Jatusripitak, Deputy Prime Minister, and Distinguished Delegates from Thailand
November 28th, 2015
H.E. Dr. Somkid Jatusripitak, Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. Pichet Durongkaveroj, Minister of Science and Technology, and Distinguished Delegates from Thailand, visited AIST Tsukuba’s TIA Collaboration Center and the Super Clean Room (SCR) on November 28th, 2015.
Following the welcome remarks by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President, and an overview of AIST by Dr. Toshihiko Kanayama, Senior Vice-President, the delegation visited the Exhibition Hall and the SCR building, where Dr. Kanayama, Dr. Yukinobu Miki, Vice-President, and relevant AIST researchers introduced some of the research being conducted there.
Tsukuba Innovation Arena (TIA-nano) was introduced as a world-class center for nanotechnology research where leading researchers and facilities are gathered, and where globally significant outcomes in carbon nanotube and power electronics research is being generated.
Despite the limited time available for his visit, Dr. Somkid showed considerable interest in the advanced researches being conducted at AIST.
Visit by His Excellency Mr. Nguyen Quoc Cuong, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to Japan
November 18th, 2015
His Excellency Mr. Nguyen Quoc Cuong, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to Japan, visited AIST Tsukuba on November 18th, 2015. Welcome remarks by Dr. Toshihiko Kanayama, Senior Vice-President, and an overview of AIST by Dr. Natsuko Sakai, Director of the Collaboration Promotion and International Affairs Division, were followed by an introduction of AIST’s research activities at Science Square Tsukuba.
His Excellency was highly interested in AIST’s research activities, with questions concerning the status of research collaboration with the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), with whom AIST has concluded a comprehensive MOU. There were additional questions regarding commercialized devices during the tour of Science Square Tsukuba.
VISIT OF DR. HARSH VARDHAN, HON’BLE MINISTER FOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND EARTH SCIENCES, INDIA
November 4th, 2015
Dr. Harsh Vardhan, India’s Hon'ble Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, visited AIST Tsukuba on November 4th, 2015. Welcome remarks by Dr. Chubachi, President of AIST, were followed by an overview of the research being conducted at the Department of Life Sciences, an area of interest to the Hon'ble Minister, by Dr. Matsuoka, Vice-President. Subsequently, Dr. Vardhan and his delegation visited DAILAB, a joint research laboratory set up by DBT (Department of Biotechnology, India) and AIST in 2013. At DAILAB, Dr. Vardhan showed immense interest in the research topics as well as facilities in the laboratory. He interacted very pleasantly with the international team of DAILAB.
[FOOTNOTE]
DAILAB is the first joint international laboratory of Department of Biotechnology (DBT), India and AIST, Japan in the field of Biomedicine. The laboratory is actively conducting research projects on integrated drug screenings for stress, aging and cancer intervention with prime focus on elucidation of functional mechanisms of selected drugs. In addition, several education and training programs for young researchers from India and other countries are offered.
Visit by His Excellency Mr. Georgi Vassilev, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Japan
June 12th, 2015
Welcome remarks by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, and an overview presentation of AIST, were followed by interactive discussions with Dr. Masahiro Seto, Vice-President of AIST, also in attendance.
Afterward, the Ambassador and his delegation toured the Geological Museum and the Science Square.
During his visit, Mr. Vassilev noted that there were research fields of common interest to AIST and research institutes of his home country, and expressed hopes for development in research in said fields through mutual researcher collaboration.
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| Mr. Georgi Vassilev (Center of picture) and Dr. Ryoji Chubachi (AIST) |
Visit by Prof. Carl-Henrik Heldin, Chairman of the Nobel Foundation, and his delegation
January 14th, 2015
A delegation of 5 professors from universities in Sweden and the Netherlands as well as the University of Tsukuba led by Prof. Carl-Henrik Heldin, Chairman of the Nobel Foundation, visited AIST Tsukuba Center on January 14th, 2015.
The purpose of this visit was for members of the delegation to obtain an overall understanding of AIST and its activities, as well as to exchange opinions with AIST researchers specializing in fields related to cancer research, the visitors’ field of expertise.
Following welcome remarks by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President of AIST, and AIST overview presentations by Dr. Toshihiko Kanayama, Senior Vice-President, and Dr. Noboru Yumoto, Vice-President, the visitors inspected the laboratory facilities of AIST’s Research Center for Stem Cell Engineering, and the Glycomedicine Technology Research Center.
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| (Center of picture) Prof. Carl-Henrik Heldin, Chairman of the Nobel Foundation |
Visit by a delegation including Ambassadors of ASEAN states to Japan
December 12th, 2014
A delegation which included H.E. Mr. Mahamud Ahmad, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Japan, and ambassadorial personnel from ASEAN states visited AIST Tsukuba.
Co-organized by the Japan Automobile Research Institute (JARI) and the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), and made possible with the cooperation of ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC), the purpose of this visit was to further the understanding of the Ambassadors and relevant persons from ASEAN countries concerning the activities of public research institutes in Tsukuba City Following welcome remarks by our President, Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, and an overview presentation of AIST, the visitors took part in guided tours of laboratories conducting research in areas including intelligent wheelchairs, mobility robots, and high-quality bio-diesel fuel production, as well as a tour of our Geological Museum.
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| Group Photo |
Visit by Asia’s Highly Talented Young Persons (Sakura Science Plan)
July 31th - August 7th, 2014
70 highly talented high school students from China, and another 120 students from ASEAN nations, South Korea and Mongolia visited AIST Tsukuba as part of the Japan-Asia Youth Exchange Program in Science (Sakura Science Plan) run by JST (Japan Science and Technology Agency) on July 31th and August 7th, respectively.
The students visited AIST as Japan’s leading public research institute during a busy week’s stay in Japan, which included speeches by Nobel Prize winners, visits to research institutes and universities, and interactions with Japanese high school students. The program at AIST included an overview of the institute, as well as tours of Science Square Tsukuba and the Geological Museum.
NOTE: Japan-Asia Youth Exchange Program in Science (Sakura Science Plan)
A program begun by JST (Japan Science and Technology Agency) this fiscal year, whose purpose is to invite to Japan young persons with the potential of playing prominent roles in the future of Asia as a continent undergoing significant development, to foster in them an interest in Japan’s cutting-edge science and technology, and contribute to the cultivation of highly competent human resources.
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| High School Students from China (in front of the Geological Museum). |
Visit by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser of the Qatar Foundation
April 22nd, 2014
Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser of Qatar, Chairperson of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, visited the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) on April 22nd, 2014.
Her Highness Sheikha Moza was welcomed by executive members and research unit directors of AIST led by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi, President, and Dr. Shingo Ichimura, Senior Vice-President. And together with executive members of the Qatar Foundation who were in attendance, including Mr. Faisal Al-Suwaidi, President of Qatar Foundation Research and Development, and Dr. Mohammad Ahmed Khaleel, Executive Director of Qatar Energy and Environment Research Institute, Qatar Foundation Research and Development, many ideas were exchanged concerning future collaborative activities between the Qatar Foundation and AIST.
Moreover, in order to facilitate the agreement by AIST and the Qatar foundation to continue holding discussions with a view to future collaboration, a Letter of Intent (LOI) was concluded between the Research Institute for Ubiquitous Energy Devices and the Research Center for Photovoltaics of AIST, and Qatar Energy and Environment Research Institute, Qatar Foundation Research and Development.
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| Dr. Ryoji Chubachi (AIST) and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser |
Visit by Singapore's Minister of Communications and Information
January 9th, 2014
A delegation from the Ministry of Communications and Information, Singapore, led by His Excellency Dr. Yaacob Ibrahim (Minister) visited AIST Tokyo Headquarters. The objective of the delegation's visit was to learn about AIST's activities in the field of communications and information, as well as to conduct discussions on possible future collaboration in this area.
Following the welcome remarks by Dr. Ryoji Chubachi (President, AIST), Dr. Toshihiko Kanayama (Vice-President, AIST) gave an introduction of AIST's strategies, policies and research outcomes in the field of information and electronics. Additional presentations were given on care support technology research and robotics research aimed at tackling aging societies, and Dr. Noboru Yumoto (Vice-President, AIST) spoke concerning human life technologies within the life science research field.
Visit by His Highness Dr. Turki Bin Saud Mohammed
Al-Saud, Vice President of KACST of the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia
October 9th, 2013
H.H. Dr. Turki Al-Saud, Vice-President of KACST (King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology) visited AIST Tsukuba.
Greetings by Dr. Shingo Ichimura (Vice-President, AIST) were followed by overviews of AIST, the Fukushima Renewable Energy Institute, and the Research Center for Photovoltaic Technologies. There were also tours of laboratories for Photovoltaic technologies research, as well as of the Intelligent Systems Research Institute Service Robotics Research Group.
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| Group Photo (KACST Vice President = 3rd from left) |
At the Service Robotics Research Group
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At the Photovoltaic Technologies Laboratory
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Establishment of the DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB)
October 3th, 2013
The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST; President: Ryoji Chubachi) and the Department of Biotechnology of India (DBT; Secretary: Krishnaswamy VijayRaghavan) have established a new joint research laboratory, named DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB) at AIST Tsukuba. President Chubachi and Secretary VijayRaghavan signed a joint research contract, and the opening ceremony was held on October 3, 2013, at AIST Tsukuba in the presence of dignitaries including DBT delegates.
AIST and DBT have concluded a comprehensive memorandum of understanding (MOU) on comprehensive research cooperation on February 12, 2007.This MoU involved bilateral collaboration on three themes - Bioinformatics, Biomedicine, and Glycoscience. During the last 5 years, AIST and DBT scientists have been performing and collaborating on selected projects at both ends. Four workshops, two at each side, were held so far for exchange of ideas, information, and research results to develop closer collaboration between the two institutions.
In order to promote close and effective collaboration, AIST and DBT have set up DAILAB at the Biomedical Research Institute of AIST in AIST Tsukuba. DAILAB will aim to conduct basic to applied research on cancer treatment and to improve the quality of life. The collaborative research will offer a global vision to both institutions and will help in training many young researchers at both sides. This is the first time that AIST and DBT are hosting an international laboratory in the fields of life sciences and biotechnology. The two institutions plan to set up a parallel joint laboratory in India in the near future. This will increase the efficacy of research projects and will offer opportunities for personnel exchange. Both institutions are keen to involve industry at a later stage of the projects so that the outcomes can be brought to society in the most effective way.
Signing & opening ceremony
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AIST President Ryoji Chubachi (2nd from right) and DBT Secretary K. VijayRaghavan (2nd from left)
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| Participants in the DAILAB Signing & Opening Celemony |
Visit by Her Excellency Ms.Geneviève FIORASO, Ministry of Higher Education and Research, France
September 7th, 2013
Her Excellency Ms. Geneviève Fioraso, French Ministry of Higher Education and Research and her delegation visited AIST Tsukuba. The objective of the visit was to inspect the AIST-CNRS Joint Robotics Laboratory (JRL), wherein collaborative research projects are being conducted by researchers from AIST and CNRS (Centre national de la recherche scientifique).
Following the welcome remarks by Dr. Shingo Ichimura (Senior Vice-President, AIST), overview presentations on AIST Intelligent Systems Research Institute and JRL were given by Dr. Hirohisa Hirukawa (Director, Intelligent Systems Research Institute) and Dr. Abderrahmane Kheddar (Co-Director, CNRS-AIST JRL) respectively. These were succeeded by demonstrations of the evaluation of assistive equipment by humanoid robots, rough terrain mobility in cases of disaster response, and humanoid interaction using brain-computer interface (BCI).
In the discussion session with Japanese and French scientists from JRL which followed, Ms. Fioraso showed particular interest in the work and life of young foreign researchers in Japan, and expressed hopes for their future success.
(Group Photo)
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(Exchange with Researchers)
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