What is FBS?
Message from the Dean
Dean’s speech to prospective students
Enjoy science in an open atmosphere!
The Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences (FBS) is an independent research department that was established in 2002, originating from the Institute for Molecular and Cellular Biology in Osaka University. It brings together research labs related to life sciences from various disciplines such as biological science, medicine, physics, neuroscience, basic engineering, and technology. With a focus on interdisciplinary fusion research, it has been over 20 years since its inception, during which it has achieved significant milestones, producing numerous outstanding achievements and contributing to Japan's recognition as a global hub for life science research.
In recent years, the field of life sciences has undergone rapid changes in research methodologies. For example, the advent of next-generation sequencers has made it essential to conduct bioinformatics-based analyses with the entire genome information for studying any organism. Additionally, the study of gene expression profiles now requires analysis at the single-cell level, a change that was unimaginable a decade ago. Adapting to these changes and staying abreast of global trends is crucial. In structural biology, the use of AI for structure prediction research has achieved unforeseen precision, necessitating the integration of computer predictions with experimental science. Adapting to such rapid changes is challenging within the traditional framework of silo management style laboratories in Japan. Such as less adaptation to the rapid changes may be linked to recent media discussions about the 'decline in Japan's basic scientific capabilities.'
FBS aims to break free from the traditional silo management style of Japanese laboratories, fostering interdisciplinary fusion. Consequently, we anticipate dynamic interactions between research laboratories, where the collaboration of diverse minds is expected to yield innovative results. Through this, we aspire to lead the world in research without lagging behind rapidly changing global trends.
Furthermore, disseminating outstanding research results requires not only the development of robust research methods to tackle complex studies but also the generation of high-quality ideas. While it's admirable to come up with brilliant ideas independently, many concepts mature through discussions within a diverse group. At FBS, we value an open atmosphere that encourages free-flowing discussions. Both young graduate students and professors are considered equals in the realm of science, as we believe that good ideas emerge from open and collaborative exchanges.
For those contemplating joining FBS, it's not just a research department aspiring to conduct world-class research with a diverse group of researchers; it also fosters an open atmosphere. Here, you have the opportunity to share your ideas with the world. Let's revel in the joy of scientific exploration together!
Overview
Life is full of the kind of wonder and surprise children often feel when they touch upon nature.
At the Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, we aim to clarify these principles and mechanisms of all functions created by systems of "life."
We train pioneering leaders in biosciences. In recent years, there has been a succession of major technological innovations in the biosciences field, including the establishment of methods for genome sequencing and genome editing and possible applications in previously unpredictable areas have expanded to the fields of pharmaceuticals, agricultural studies, and material engineering. These breakthroughs are leading to answers to questions concerning the essence of life itself. Research methods are also progressing. While much of the research in biology has centered on genetics and biochemistry thus far, interdisciplinary approaches are now required, using advanced technologies in optical engineering, information engineering, robotics, AI, and other fields. To meet the needs of this new era of biosciences, the Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences aims to nurture future leaders capable of conceiving creative ideas and contributing to the world through research. FBS offers a five-year doctoral degree program headed by academic staff in wide-ranging specialties to educate students using an interdisciplinary research environment encompassing the fields of medicine, engineering, and science.
We study life and its possibilities by collecting ideas that intrigue people working in diverse specialties, which include engineering, physics, and information science, as well as biosciences and medicine. Fascinating, exciting, and fun research awaits you here.
