Biology has made remarkable progress through molecular biological research, which has seamlessly integrated the achievements of biology, physics, and chemistry. Then, with the introduction of genetic engineering technology in the 1970s, biology became closely related to society, and as a result, the term “Life Science”, which refers to a broad field of research that includes the medical, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and social sciences, has become established. The National Institute for Basic Biology (NIBB) was founded in 1977. It has a history of almost 50 years.

Today's life sciences are at a major turning point since the introduction of genetic engineering. In this situation, while expectations for the application and innovation of Life Science are high, what is important in the long term is to pick up the seeds of innovation worth pursuing, to germinate and grow them before they become innovation.

Drug discovery is an example of applied research, but many of the natural compounds that become the seeds of innovation are derived from natural products. Because natural compounds are produced using the metabolic pathways of organisms that have evolved, natural compounds themselves have also undergone evolution. Biological research to understand how such natural compounds are produced is becoming the basis for innovation. Since its establishment, NIBB has strongly promoted basic biological research on various biological species. And, as an Inter-university Research Institute, NIBB promotes interaction among researchers by providing opportunities for collaborative research, promoting the use of advanced research equipment and disseminating advanced analytical techniques through training courses. NIBB promotes academic exchange with advanced research centers in Japan and abroad, and trains young researchers who will be active on the global stage. NIBB also trains students at the Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI.

Deepening research that asks and answers simple questions about living organisms is the fundamental key to discovering seeds that contribute to innovation. NIBB boldly tackles biologically important questions using cutting-edge research methods, aiming to discover the rich and exciting “Biological Wisdom” that organisms have acquired through evolution.

As we are in a transformative era of Life Sciences, we sincerely ask for your understanding and support as the National Institute for Basic Biology takes on the challenge of creating new currents in biology. Masayuki Miura, Director General of the National Institute for Basic Biology