Welcome to the RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS). It is my great honor and privilege to have assumed the directorship of IMS in April 2025. Together with all of you, I look forward to guiding this center into its next chapter.

IMS has grown through the integration of research fields such as immunology, genomics, and transcriptomics, bringing together their respective strengths to advance biomedical science. In 2025, this foundation was further enriched with the addition of structural biology and data science, enabling a more interdisciplinary and comprehensive approach to life and medical sciences. Today, IMS serves as a center for medical sciences, comprising approximately 500 members and 68 laboratories, and stands among the largest research hubs within the institute. This history of integration and expansion reflects our defining feature: crossing disciplinary boundaries to generate new scientific value.

Our mission is to elucidate life phenomena at every level —from molecules and cells to organs and whole organisms. To this end, we advance integrated studies of the human immune system, investigate disease mechanisms through organ linkage, explore the non-coding genome, and promote cutting-edge multi-omics approaches enhanced by artificial intelligence. All of these efforts are rooted in the curiosity-driven research of individual scientists, and we believe that such discoveries will naturally evolve into mission-oriented science that contributes to medicine and society.

Another defining feature of IMS lies in its culture. Researchers, technical staff, and administrative staff work with mutual respect, and we are committed to fostering a spirit of supporting one another like one family. By valuing this "One Family" principle, we aim to create an environment where curiosity thrives, open discussions are encouraged, and bold challenges are welcomed, thereby enriching IMS's unique research culture.

IMS also engages in extensive international collaboration, building strong partnerships with leading institutions in Europe, North America, and Asia. By enhancing this global network, IMS aspires to serve as a hub of biomedical science that connects creativity and collaboration across borders, paving the way for the next generation of life sciences.

Ultimately, everything we do at IMS is for the next generation. It is our greatest responsibility to create an institute where young researchers can challenge themselves, grow, and take flight onto the global stage. To this end, we place great importance on fostering trust, dialogue, and a culture that encourages fearless exploration.

RIKEN IMS will continue to push the frontiers of life and medical sciences, delivering discoveries that benefit society and humanity. I sincerely ask for your continued understanding, encouragement, and support.