Message from the President

Each year we are proud to witness many lively young scientists attend the Annual Meeting of Japan Society for Molecular Science, present their research, interact with their peers, sometimes struggling to respond to pointed questions from their colleagues, and return to their institutions enriched by the whole experience. Those who have just entered the world of molecular science are, I am sure, in the midst of tremendous personal and academic growth, acquainting themselves with the vibrant and demanding nature of scientific studies and being rewarded by their small victories. Such growth of young men and women give us the utmost joy. We, too, learn a lot from them.

We all share the fundamental human desire to make good use of our limited lives, to benefit someone, or some aspect of the world. Young researchers may at times find themselves wondering if their work matters to the society. Especially in the wake of last year's Great East Japan Earthquake and the nuclear power plant accidents, such feelings must have been near inescapable. Indeed we have been jolted into the stark recognition that modern science and technology, or the policies and social systems surrounding them, are imbued with issues that we must pause to face for the sake of our future. At the same time, we have renewed our resolve that we must enhance our science and technology, working ever harder towards truly creative research, so that we may carve out a future for the human society and ensure happiness and prosperity in people's lives. Molecular science contributes to a wide range of research fields, including life science, material science, and energy science; there is a vast universe in front of you waiting to be explored. It is my hope that each of us will continue to step forward with great aspirations, taking the time to consider what it means to be truly happy and prosperous, and how we as scientists and engineers can help realize such goals.

At this moment when our society strives to rise up from the disaster, the Japan Society for Molecular Science encourages young researchers in their powerful advancements and achievements, as we host our Annual Meeting and welcome all to participate in our discussions. We are very much looking forward to your attendance.

January 2012
President of the Japan Society for Molecular Science
Toshinori Suzuki