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Akasaka Twin Tower East, 13th Floor, 2-17-22 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052, JAPAN Tel: +81-3-5545-0551 Fax: +81-3-5545-0554 www.japanprize.jp CONTENTS
The Japan Prize for the world 1
Significance of the Prize 2
The Japan Prize Foundation 3
Main Activities of the Foundation 4
The Japan Prize 5
■ Background of Establishment
■ Nominations and Selection Process
■ Fields Selection Committee and Selection Committee
■ Fields for the 2012 Japan Prize Selected
Profiles of Japan Prize Laureates 9
Directors, Auditors and Councilors of the Foundation 25 The Japan Prize for the world
President Masao Ito
Science is an expression of humanity’s intellectual The Japan Prizes imply a deep acknowledgement of quest to understand nature and to clarify its mysteries, Japan’s indebtedness to the worldwide community of and technology expands the possible range of human science and technology, because Japan has been activity, providing vital support for contemporary life. benefi ted greatly from progress in many areas of science Science and technology are opening new horizons for and technology. Also, they represent Japan’s great hope humanity, and at the same time providing ways to for the future, which would not be conceivable without solve many diffi cult problems that our world is continued developments in science and technology. facing. Each year, we are honored to hold the award The Japan Prize was founded as a way of honoring ceremony and banquet in the presence of Their those who have made signifi cant contributions to the Majesties, the Emperor and Empress of Japan, and progress of science and technology, and thereby to the representatives of the Three Branches of government. welfare and prosperity of all humanity. It is aimed at The Japan Prize Foundation wishes to devote every recognizing their achievements and rewarding them effort to making this a memorable opportunity for for their services from a global perspective, regardless numerous researchers to gather to honor the prize of their country of origin. Ever since the fi rst Japan winners, and to celebrate the limitless potentialities of Prize was awarded in 1985, it has been awarded to science and technology. outstanding researchers selected from the world’s science and technology community each year.
－1－ Signifi cance of the Prize
Chairman Hiroyuki Yoshikawa
Man is a species that has used wisdom to preserve its a negative outcome on mankind, over the longer course existence. In modern times, much of that wisdom has of time it is indisputable that scientifi c and technological come to depend on knowledge derived from academic advances have brought peace and prosperity to research. Nowadays, in particular, the rapid development humanity. of scientifi c and technical knowledge owes much to the Through the pedigree record of its recipients, the endeavors of researchers and scientists. Research Japan Prize speaks of a history that combines scientifi c excellence is recognized through the award of various and technological progress and human peace and prizes, of which the Nobel Prize is one. We can say that prosperity. The Prize is not confi ned, however, to telling the pedigree record of recipients reveals, not only to only of developments slowly revealed over the passage specialists but also to the general public, a history of of time. the unique perspective that characterizes these prizes. While respecting the various ways science and This being the case, what history should the Japan technology is currently unfolding, the prize endeavours Prize reveal ? Considering that the overview of the to show history in progress based on a premise that the Japan Prize refers to making concurrent contributions role of today’s researcher is to create an overlapping to the progress of science and to human peace and history. prosperity, it should reveal a history of both scientifi c It is our sincerest wish that by reaching not just and technological progress and a resultant history of researchers but also the broader population the peace and prosperity. developments revealed will go on to ensure that science Looking back, it is simple to point out the overlapping and technology make a substantial contribution to the existence of both of these. Even if, at some point in peace and prosperity of humankind. history, some aspect of science and technology exerted
－2－ The Japan Prize Foundation
Objectives History
Bearing in mind the fact that peace and prosperity 1982 The Japan Prize Preparatory Foundation is for mankind is the common aspiration of all people, established. the Japan Prize Foundation encourages research 1983 The Foundation is renamed to that will contribute to the development of science “The Science and Technology Foundation of Japan”. and technology, and promotes the comprehensive 1983 The establishment of the Japan Prize is endorsed spread and development of ideas and information in by the Cabinet. science and technology. 1985 The 1st Japan Prize Presentation Ceremony is held. 1987 The Foundation starts sending Japanese students Activities to the annual Stockholm International Youth The Foundation conducts the following activities Science Seminar. to accomplish its objectives: 1989 The Foundation starts hosting “Easy-to-understand Science and Technology 1) Recognize outstanding achievements in science and Seminars”. technology with the Japan Prize 2006 The Foundation starts awarding Research Grants. 2) Encourage the study of science and technology 2010 As of October 1, 2010, the Foundation through research grants and promotional activities changes its legal status to a Public Interest 3) Promote the diffusion of knowledge and philosophy Incorporated Foundation and renames itself to in science and technology through various activities “The Japan Prize Foundation”. including dissemination of information materials and research papers, and seminars 4) Other activities to fulfill the objectives of the Foundation
The Japan Prize logo was designed by Mr. Yusaku Kamekura, then President of Japan Graphic Designers Association Inc. Commenting on his work, Mr. Kamekura said, “I used the image of the sun, the source of all energy for its primary design. The circles were added to represent perfection and truth.”
－3－ Main Activities of the Foundation
The Japan Prize Research Grants
The Japan Prize Foundation honors those whose The Foundation provides research grants to scientists original and outstanding achievements in science and researchers who are under 35 years of age. Every and technology are recognized as having advanced year, the Foundation selects projects in the same fi elds as the frontiers of knowledge and served the cause of the Japan Prize and gives one million Japanese yen peace and prosperity for mankind. A Japan Prize (approx. US $ 12,000) laureate receives a Certificate of Merit and a Prize for a project. Each year, Medal. A cash prize of 50 million Japanese yen about 20 young scientists (approx. US $ 600,000) is also awarded in each receive grants. prize category. The Japan Prize Presentation Ceremony is held every April in the presence of Their Majesties, the Emperor and Empress of “Easy-to-understand Science Japan, with leaders from every fi eld of endeavor in and Technology Seminars” attendance. The Foundation hosts series of seminars on advanced technologies that are being used widely in our everyday lives. The seminars are designed for students and the general public, and experts in the related fi elds explain in plain language the technologies that are the focus of interest at that time. Over 200 seminars have been held across Japan since
Certificate of Merit the fi rst seminar was held over 20 years ago.
Stockholm International Youth Science Seminar (SIYSS)
The Japan Prize Foundation sends two Japanese students to the annual Stockholm International Youth Science Seminar, which is held under the auspices of the Swedish Federation of Young Scientists and with the support of the Nobel Foundation, Since the program started in 1987, Prize Medal some 50 students from Japan have participated in this event.
－4－ The Japan Prize
Background of Establishment Lifelong Ambition The Japan Prize Preparatory Foundation was established on November 1, 1982, with the approval Peace and prosperity for mankind have been of the Prime Minister, for the purpose of establishing my lifelong desires. I am extremely pleased, the Japan Prize as a prestigious international award in therefore, that the Japan Prize has been the fields of science and technology. established with the specific goal of making The creation of the Japan Prize was motivated by some contribution on behalf of Japan to the the desire to “express Japan’s gratitude to international development of international society. society.” This plan was advocated in 1981 by Mr. Taro The progress of modern science and technology Nakayama, the then Director General, the Prime has been phenomenal. It is not overstating its Minister’s Office of the Suzuki Cabinet, and supported role to say that we owe the civilization we enjoy with the fund donated by the late Mr. Konosuke today to this very progress. Matsushita, the founder of Panasonic Corporation. On the other hand, there are still many global problems which remain to be solved, and the The Government issued the following cabinet necessity to seek the counsel of many people is endorsement on the establishment of the Japan Prize greater than ever before. on October 28 of the same year. Under such circumstances, it is appropriate that Japan, in consultation with the international community, honors, those who have produced Establishment of the Japan Prize outstanding achievements in the fields of science and technology. The official position of the Japanese It is my sincere hope that the Japan Prize Government is that the Japan Prize, to be achieves the recognition it deserves. bestowed by the Science and Technology Foundation of Japan*, will serve to deepen the understanding of the role played by science and technology in furthering world peace and prosperity, thereby making a vital contribution to the positive development of mankind. Based on this judgment, the government agencies concerned are urged to offer whatever cooperation necessary in all phases pertinent to this prize. (Cabinet Endorsement, October 28, 1983) The first President of the Foundation * now renamed as The Japan Prize Foundation Konosuke Matsushita
－5－ ■ 日本国際賞の推薦と審査
The Japan Prize
Nominations and Selection Process
■ Nominations and Selection Process
■ Every November the Fields Selection Committee of
Determine the fields eligible for the Japan Prize Foundation designates and announces the 2011 Japan Prize two fi elds in which the Japan Prize will be awarded November 2009 Information and Bioscience and two years hence. At the same time, the Foundation Communications Medical Science calls for over 13,000 nominators, strictly comprised of prominent scientists and researchers from around the world invited by the Foundation, to nominate the Invite the nominations candidates through the web by JPNS (Japan Prize Nomination System). The deadline for nominations is the end of February of following year. End February Closing of the nominations 2010 ■ For each fi eld, a Selection Subcommittee conducts a
Information and Bioscience and rigorous evaluation of the candidates’ academic Communications Medical Science Selection Subcommittee Selection Subcommittee achievements. The conclusions are then forwarded to Selection Committee, which conducts evaluations of candidates’ achievements from a wider perspective,
Selection Committee including contributions to the progress of science and technology, and signifi cant advancement towards the cause of world peace and prosperity, and fi nally Board of Directors the selected candidates are recommended for the Prize.
January Announce the Lauretates of ■ The recommendations are then sent to the Foundation’s 2011 the 2011 Japan Prize Board of Directors, which makes the fi nal decision on the winners. Mid. April The 2011 Japan Prize 2011 Presentation Ceremony ■ The nomination and selection process takes almost one year from the time that the fi elds are decided. Every January, the winners of that year’s Japan Prize are announced. The Presentation Ceremony is held in mid-April in Tokyo.
－6－ Fields Selection Committee and Selection Committee
■ Fields Selection Committee
Member Kazuhito Hashimoto Member Kenichi Mori Professor, Graduate School of Engineering, Professor, Graduate School of Management of Science and The University of Tokyo Technology, Tokyo University of Science
Member Yoshihiro Hayashi Member Noriko Osumi Professor, Human and Animal-Plant Relationships, Professor, Tokyo University of Agriculture Tohoku University School of Medicine
Member Nobuhide Kasagi Member Masakatsu Shibasaki Chairman Vice Chairman Professor, Graduate School of Engineering, Executive Director of Board of Directors, Yoshio Yazaki Katsuhiko Shirai The University of Tokyo Microbial Chemistry Research Foundation President, Former President, Member Tsutomu Kimura Member Atsuko Tsuji National Hospital Waseda University Organization Advisor to the Minister of Education, Editorial writer, The Asahi Shimbun Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
Member Hiroshi Kuwahara Senior Advisor Emeritus, Hitachi Maxell, Ltd.
( alphabetical order, titles as of December, 2010)
■ Members of the 2011 Japan Prize Selection Committee
Member Makoto Asashima Member Masayuki Matsushita Director and Fellow, Research Center for Stem Cell Engineering, Director, The Japan Prize Foundation National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
Member Kunio Iwatsuki Member Makoto Misono Director, The Museum of Nature and Chairman, PO Academy, Human Activities, Hyogo Japan Science and Technology Agency Chairman Vice Chairman Member Yoshio Karita Member Hideo Miyahara Hiroshi Komiyama Ryozo Nagai Director, The Japan Prize Foundation President, National Institute of Information and Chairman of the Institute, Professor, Graduate Communications Technology Mitsubishi Research School of Medicine, Institute, Inc. The University of Tokyo Member Masafumi Maeda Member Takehiko Sasazuki Managing Director, Executive Vice President, University Professor, The University of Tokyo Institute for Advanced Study, Kyushu University
Selection subcommittee for the “Information and Communications” field Selection subcommittee for the “Bioscience and Medical Science” field
Chairman Deputy Chairman Chairman Deputy Chairman Hideo Miyahara Shojiro Nishio Makoto Asashima Kohei Miyazono President, National Institute of Trustee and Vice President, Director and Fellow, Professor, Information and Osaka University Research Center for Stem Cell Engineering, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo Communications Technology National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
Member Tomonori Aoyama Member Hidehiko Tanaka Member Masato Kasuga Member Shimon Sakaguchi Professor, Graduate School of Media and Dean, Professor, Graduate School of Information Director-General, Research Institute, Director, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Governance, Keio University Security, Institute of Information Security National Center for Global Health and Kyoto University Medicine Member Toru Ishida Member Yoh'ichi Tohkura Member Kunio Matsumoto Member Toshio Suda Professor, Graduate School of Informatics, Professor, Deputy Director General, Deputy Director, Cancer Research Professor, School of Medicine, Keio University Kyoto University National Institute of Informatics Institute, Kanazawa University
Member Masaru Kitsuregawa Member Hiroto Yasuura Member Hiroaki Mitsuya Member Naoyuki Taniguchi Executive Director, Earth Observation Data Professor, Executive Vice President, Professor, Faculty of Life Sciences, Endowed Chair Professor, The Institute of Scientific Integration & Fusion Research Initiative (EDITORIA), Kyushu University Kumamoto University and Industrial Research (ISIR), Osaka University The University of Tokyo Member Masayuki Murata Member Akinori Yonezawa Member Shigeo Ohno Professor, Graduate School of Information Professor, Graduate School of Information Professor, Graduate School of Medicine, Science and Technology, Osaka University Science and Technology, The University Yokohama City University of Tokyo Member Hitoshi Okamoto Advisor Yukihide Tomari Deputy Director, Associate Professor, Institute of Molecular and Brain Science Institute, RIKEN Cellular Biosciences, The University of Tokyo
Member Noriko Osumi Advisor Chikashi Toyoshima Professor, Professor, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Tohoku University School of Medicine Biosciences, The University of Tokyo
( alphabetical order, titles as of December, 2010) －7－ Fields for the 2012 Japan Prize Selected
Area of StudiesⅠ mathematics, physics, mistry and engineering Area of Studies Ⅱ biology, agriculture and medical science
Fields eligible for the award: Fields eligible for the award: Environment, Energy and Infrastructure Healthcare and Medical Technology
Background and rationale: Background and rationale: In recent years, the increase in resource and energy consumption Over the past few decades, dramatic progress has been made in and the destruction of the natural environment caused by various diagnostic accuracy of diseases and physical functions. This has been human activities have reached a level that is no longer ignorable, due to the advancements of science and technology in the field of prompting negotiations for environmental protection measures on a diagnostic imaging instrument, information based medical technology, global scale. and moreover, the medical diagnostic technology and biochemical- A strong need has thus been reaffirmed for innovation in based diagnosis methods based upon the study of genetics. fundamental technologies that profoundly influences the global In addition to the advancements in diagnosis technology, innovations environment. They include technologies for energy production and in medical treatment technique including minimally invasive surgery utilization, material production, water resource management, urban and radiation therapy have improved the curability rate of many development, physical distribution and transportation. Particular diseases, thereby significantly contributing to the well-being of people. importance lies in the promotion of energy saving across civil life Furthermore, even greater developments are being anticipated in the and industry, exploitation of alternative energy resources and new field of medicine, such as diagnostic technology for early detection of production technology under resource and environmental constrains. diseases, epoch-making drug discovery and regenerative medicine. Moreover, scientific advancement and innovation in disaster With a rapidly aging population, maintaining and improving health mitigation and safety measures is another important target for the and disease prevention has become increasingly important for the development of the social infrastructure. preservation of social vitality. As a result, there are high expectations for further development and advancement of the science and Achievement eligible: technology in this field. The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of “Environment, Energy, and Infrastructure” is awarded to individuals who have made significant Achievement eligible: contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of “Healthcare and Medical technological breakthroughs in creation, innovation and propagation Technology” is awarded to individuals who have made significant of technologies that are related to environmental protection, energy, contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and environmentally benign production and social infrastructure, thereby technological breakthroughs in creating and promoting new technologies improving and protecting the global environment. for medical diagnosis and treatment, and those contributing to maintenance and furtherance of our health and disease prevention.
■ Schedule (2013-2015) The fields eligible for the Japan Prize (2013 to 2015) have been decided for the two research areas, respectively. These fields rotate every three years, basically. Every year the Fields Selection Committee announces the eligible fields for the next three years.
Areas of Physics, Chemistry and Engineering Areas of Life Science, Agriculture and Medicine Year Eligible Fields Year Eligible Fields 2013 Materials, Production 2013 Biological Production, Biological Environment 2014 Electronics, Information, Communication 2014 Life Science 2015 Resources, Energy, Social Infrastructure 2015 Medical Science, Medicinal Science
－8－ Profiles of Japan Prize Laureates (Titles at the time)
1985（1st） 1986（2nd）
Category of Information and Communications Category of Materials Science and Technology
Pioneering contributions to Outstanding achievement in materials science with impact on the field of electronics and new materials technology such as communications technologies amorphous solids
Dr. John R. Pierce Dr. David Turnbull Professor Emeritus at Stanford University. Professor at Harvard University. USA Born in 1910 Died in 2002 USA Born in 1915 Died in 2007
Dr. Pierce’s achievements in the field of information and telecommunication Dr. Turnbull, who formulated the guiding principles of new materials engineering represent the highest scientific caliber in the United States. development, predicted what kinds of alloys will, like glass, tend to assume His work has resulted in the theoretical development of the possibilities of an amorphous character with an irregular alignment of atoms in rapid cooling communications satellites and of broad-band digital transmissions via pulse from a molten state. In addition, this prominent scientist cleared the way for the code modulations and multivalent signals. production of high-density ceramics and perfect crystals for use in ICs.
Category of Biotechnology Category of Medical Technology
Outstanding achievement in basic theory in the field of immobilized Research and development of enzymes and their practical artificial organs and their relevant applications technology
Dr. Ephraim Katchalski-Katzir Dr. Willem J. Kolff Professor at Tel Aviv University and at Weiz- Professor at the University of Utah. Head mann Institute of Science. of the Institute for Biomedical Engineering. Israel Born in 1916 Died in 2009 USA Born in 1911 Died in 2009
Dr. Katzir, the fourth President of the State of Israel from 1973 to 1978, is As father of artificial organ technology, Dr. Kolff achieved clinical success credited with the invention and development of the bioanalyzer and bioreactor, in the development of a rotating drum-type kindney device in 1943. He then two devices employing immobilized enzymes and cells which form part of the continued to work to popularize disposable-type artificial kidneys while playing foundation of biotechnology. a leading role in the development of artificial lungs and hearts.
－9－ 1987（3rd） 1988（4th）
Category of Electro-Optics Category of Energy Technology
Realization of the world’s first Establishment of fast breeder laser reactor technology
Dr. Theodore H. Maiman Former chief of research at Hughes Dr. Georges Vendryes Research Laboratories Scientific advisor to the president of the President of Maiman Associates Inc. Commissariat I’Energie Atomique USA Born in 1927 Died in 2007 France Born in 1920 Died in 2010
This pioneer in electro-optics became in 1960 the first scientist to succeed Following his contribution to the establishment of the fundamentals of in generating radiation with a ruby laser, greatly aiding subsequent research nuclear power design and the promotion of fast breeder reactor development, on lasers. Dr. Maiman has also made a major contribution towards the Dr. Vendryes’ work led to the successful completion of “Super Phoenix,” the advancement of the fields of natural science and engineering technology. world’s first large-scale test breeder, establishing practical technologies for a solution to mankind’s energy problem in the future.
Category of Improvement of Biological Functions Category of Preventative Medicine Development of the IR8 and IR36 strains for rice breeding strategies geared to the tropical and subtropical zones The eradication of smallpox (Joint Award) (Joint Award)
Dr. Henry M. Beachell Dr. Donald A. Henderson Former head of the Plant Breeding Dean, Johns Hopkins University, School of Department at the International Rice Hygiene and Public Health Research Institute USA Born in 1928 Advisor to the Farms of Texas Company USA Born in 1906 Died in 2006 As the first chief medical officer of the WHO World Smallpox Eradication Office, Dr. Beachell has taken part in the IRRI’s rice Dr. Henderson dedicated his efforts to the strain improvement projects since the institute’s development of group vaccination programs and establishment. In 1966 he developed the IR8 contributed to its historic auccess through the strain that helped pave the way for the “green worldwide eradication of smallpox. revolution” in developing nations.
Dr. Gurdev S. Khush Dr. Isao Arita Director, Kumamoto National Hospital Head of the Plant Breeding Department at the Japan Born in 1926 International Rice Research Institute India Born In 1935 As the second chief medical officer of the WHO World Smallpox Eradication Office, Carrying on the work begun by Dr. Beachell, Dr. Arita established basic disease control Dr. Khush further improved IR8 and in 1976 knowledge and performed epidemiological developed IR36, a strain highly tolerant of poor analysis as well as surveys and research into environmental conditions. IR36 contributed vaccine quality improvement. immensely to the attainment of production stability and self-sufficiency in rice in tropical and subtropical countries.
－10－ 1989（5th）
Category of Environmental Science and Technology
Dr. Frank Fenner Professor Emeritus, Visiting Fellow, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, Studies on the mechanisms of The Australian National University stratospheric ozone depletion by Australia Born in 1914 chlorofluorocarbons
Dr. Fenner, as the chairman of the WHO Smallpox Eradication Surveillance Committee, supervised implementation of the global Dr. Frank Sherwood Rowland smallpox eradication program and his consistent Profesor at University of California, Irvine efforts greatly contributed to its success. USA Born in 1927
In 1974, Dr. Rowland, who studied physical chemistry, was the world’s first scientist to point out the mechanisms by which chlorofluorocarbons could destroy the ozone layer which protects life on earth from harmful ultraviolet solar radiation. Discovery of the AIDS causing virus and development of He also predicted that if emission of chlorofluorocarbons continues at its current rate, it would eventually result in a 7-13% loss of the total ozone. diagnostic methods (Joint Award) Dr. Rowland’s theoretical insights and predictions have been verified by scientists throughout the world, and have done much to strengthen international Dr. Luc Montagnier efforts for the preservation of stratospheric ozone. C h i e f, D e p a r t m e n t of V i r u s Tu m o u r s , Pasteur Institute France Born in 1932 Category of Medicinal Science
Leading the joint research staff at the Pasteur Institute in 1983, Dr. Montagnier became the first researcher in the world to discover HIV, the Pioneering contributions to the pathogen behind AIDS, thus launching the start syntheses of prostaglandins and of genuine HIV research. He has also developed practical blood serum diagnostic methods their related compounds which are for the establishment of basic preventative of great therapeutic value countermeasures.
Dr. Elias James Corey Dr. Robert C. Gallo Professor at Harvard University USA Born in 1925 Chief, Laboratory of Tumour Cell Biology, National Institute of Health Dr. Corey’s study covered almost all fields of organic chemistry. He became USA Born in 1937 the first researcher to synthesize pure prostaglandins in natural, optically active form. This allowed the large scale production of all natural prostaglandins to provide a stable supply for other researchers, thus contributing considerably to Leading his own independent research group, the development of biochemistry and medicine. Dr. Gallo established a method of culturing His synthesis had three major advantages over other methods in terms of human T cells and succeeded in isolating efficiency, versatility, and economy. the HIV virus, making a major contribution to Dr. Corey’s achievement in the synthesis of eicosanoids is a monumental analysis of its relationship with AIDS. He is also work in modern medicinal science. It is broadly expected that this synthesis will a pioneer in the research and development of facilitate development of medicines for such diseases as cerebral thromboisis, AZT, the most effective AIDS treatment thus far, arteriosclerosis and gastric and intestinal ulcers. as well as in the effort to manifest a virus gene and realized and AIDS vaccine.
－11－ 1990（6th）
Category of Technology of Integration- Design, Production and Control Technologies Category of Earth Science Initiation of the theory of plate tectonics and contributions Establishment of an academic to its development (Joint Award) field named Artificial Intelligence and the proposal of fundamental Dr. William Jason Morgan theories in that field Professor at Princeton University USA Born in 1935
Dr. Marvin Minsky Dr. Morgan began his revolutionary work by dividing Earth’s outer shell into some 20 plates, Professor of Electrical Engineering, MIT analyzing their movements as rigid, rotating USA Born in 1927 segments of the shell, and measuring absolute velocities of plate motion. Mid-oceanic ridges, Dr. Minsky published his paper “Steps Toward Artificial Intelligence” in subduction zones and transform faults all came 1961 and this gave Artificial Intelligence (AI) world wide exposure and has to be interpreted as results of the movements earned Dr. Minsky the title of “Father of AI”. Artificial Intelligence became of these plates. The great significance of Dr. increasingly complex by the 1970s, involving vast amounts of knowledge Morgan’s theory became widely recognized and the need to use specially appropriate pieces of knowledge at particular and his work subsequently triggered numerous times. Dr. Minsky proposed a theory of frames for the effective representation studies in a variety of fields. and utilization of knowledge in computers. In the 1980s, AI has produced many more practical application systems and many researchers have turned toward the question of how to make machines learn more by themselves. In addition to the development of the theory and practical application systems, he Dr. Dan Peter McKenzie emphasized the necessity of study on the human mind including emotion and Professor at Cambridge University self consciousness. In his book “Society of Mind,” he proposed a model of the UK Born in 1942 human mind which consists of many small agents (computers) working together by communicating with each other. His proposal is expected to further expand the AI technology to other fields of science and help promote AI applications. Dr. Mckenzie has analyzed earthquake systems in the circum-Pacific region and has demonstrated independently that the floor of the Pacific Ocean moves as a single plate, rotating against North America and East Asia. In collaboration with Dr. Morgan, Dr. Mckenzie has also carried out a geometrical analysis of triple junctions where three plates meet. This work has contributed greatly to understanding the relative motion of plates and the energetics of plate movements. He has also proposed the highly original model that large sedimentary basins, important in the formation of oil and natural gas deposits, are formed by thinning of the crust due to plate motion.
Dr. Xavier Le Pichon Directeur du Dépar tment de Géologie, Ecole Normale Supérieure France Born in 1937
Dr. Le Pichon, inspired by the work of Dr. Morgan has independently determined plate movements over the entire surface of Earth, using ocean floor spreading velocities estimated from paleomagnetic patterns and the directions of transform faults. He has also published a book on plate tectonics which has had a great influence on Earth scientists throughout the world, and has played a major role in seafloor investigation at plate boundaries. Through these works, he has contributed greatly to the understanding of the geological nature of plate boundaries under the ocean.
－12－ 1991（7th） 1992（8th）
Category of Applied Mathematics Category of Science and Technology of Material Interfaces
Contributions to analysis and Contributions to the new control of distributed systems, and development of the chemistry and to promotion of applied analysis physics of solid surfaces Prof. Dr. Gerhard Ertl Dr. Jacques-Louis Lions Director of Fritz-Haber Institute of Max The Chairman of Analysis and Systems Control Planck Society, Honorary Professor at the at the Collège de France and the President of Free University Berlin and at the Technical National Center of Space Studies University Berlin France Born in 1928 Died in 2001 Germany Born in 1936
Dr. Lions led the world to establish the new field of applied mathematics Since the 1960s, Professor Ertl has developed extensive studies on the which makes good use of expertise inherited inside the traditional discipline chemisorption phenomena of atoms or molecules of representative chemicals of analysis and which can fully benefit from the powerful functions of modern on metal surfaces, and has explained a number of important phenomena such computers. as phase transitions in chemisorbed layers and the surface reconstruction His research and achievements have covered exceedingly wide areas, induced by adsorption. including establishment and development of the control theory of distributed He has also pioneered and developed the study of the dynamical aspects of systems which are governed by partial differential equations. chemical processes on metal surfaces in atomic and molecular level. The method is expected to be the most promising among existing By a series of outstanding scientific achievements in this area, he has mathematical approaches to global and environmental problems. opened up a new area of surface science, and made invaluable contributions As for applications in industry, Dr. Lions made considerable contributions to the development of this important and new research area in science and to computational aerodynamics for the aerospace industry, simulation for the technology of material interfaces. petroleum industry and mathematical analysis for the French Energy Agency.
Category of Imaging Techniques in Medicine Category of Science and Technology for Biological Production
Discovery of method of the Development of ultrasound cryopreservation of semen and imaging in medicine embryos in farm animals
Dr. John Julian Wild Prof. Ernest John Christopher Polge M.D., Ph.D., FAIUM, Head, The Scientific Director of Animal Biotechnology Physicomedical Institute, Minneapolis Cambridge Ltd. USA Born in 1914 Died in 2009 UK Born in 1926 Died in 2006
In 1949, Dr. Wild manufactured prototype equipment for A-mode Prof. Polge developed a new method for preservation of spermatozoa ultrasonography and with this equipment, he succeeded in measuring the whereby bull semen in glycerol-containing media with-stood freezing at a very thickness of the human colon. This was the first attempt to use ultrasound for low temperature (-79˚C). This has promoted the growth of what has become biomedical application. a new science of cryobiology with practical applications in various spheres in Subsequently, he developed a two-dimensional ultrasound image employing medicine and agriculture. There is no doubt that the largest application has B-mode equipment, for which he has been also recognized as being the first been in the deepfreezing of semen for artificial insemination, particularly in pioneer of medical ultrasonic imaging. The method today is widely used on cattle; in which the impact on breeding and livestock improvement has been a variety of occasions including detection and diagnosis of brain tumors and great. The development of techniques for the preservation of embryos at low breast cancer. In particular, the breast imaging by this equipment brought about temperatures is now being applied in a number of farm animal species. the successful imaging of a tiny 7mm diameter nipple cancer.
－13－ 1993（9th） 1994（10th）
Category of Safety Engineering and Disaster Mitigation Category of Aerospace Technologies
Inspirational leadership in unmanned Development of modern lunar and planetary exploration, and seismology and advancement for pioneering achievements in the of international cooperation in development of spacecraft and deep disaster science space communications
Dr. William Hayward Pickering Dr. Frank Press Professor Emeritus of the California Institute President of U.S. National Academy of Sciences of Technology USA Born in 1924 USA Born in 1910 Died in 2004
Dr. Press was the first to propose that the dispersion of long period Dr. Pickering, as a Director of the JPL, the California Institute of Technology, eathquake surface wave motion could be used as a tool for studying the had made many pioneering contributions to space technologies such as structure of the earth’s crust and upper mantle. Analyzing surfaces waves, the development of spacecraft as a means for space exploration, and the Dr. Press verified that the occurrence of an earthquake is fault motion itself. development of deep space communications network for data acquisition for It was the beginning of modern seismology and the forerunner for studies on 32 years. Owing to his command and guidance technologies, the USA’s first earthquake mechanisms. artificial satellite “Explorer 1” was launched in 1958. And “Pioneer 4”, the design Dr. Press was the leader in the promotion of scientific reseach and of which was led by him, succeeded in becoming the first U.S. man made development in the area of disaster mitigation. As demonstrated by his object to escape from the Earth’s gravitational field in 1959. He developed efforts for International Geophysical Year (IGY) and Worldwide Standardized new technologies for digital communications and high definition television. Seismograph Network (WWSSN), he recognized the importance of international His achievements have made significant contributions to the “expansion of cooperation in disaster sciences. He conceived and has been a leader in mankind’s active domain to outer space”. His technologies have been applied promoting the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction (IDNDR), a in many fields and have contributed to the welfare of mankind. UN program in which the international community, under the auspices of the UN, will pay special attention during the last decade of the century to fostering international disaster (such as earthquakes, floods, droughts, volcanos, landslides, windstorms and wildfires) reduction.
Category of Molecular and Cellular Technology in Medicine Category of Psychology and Psychiatry
Discovery of dopamine as a Development of the polymerase neurotransmitter and clarification chain reaction of its role in mental and motor functions and their disorders
Dr. Kary B. Mullis Founder and Vice President Research, Dr. Arvid Carlsson Atomic Tags, Inc. Professor Emeritus, Gothenburg University USA Born in 1944 Sweden Born in 1923
The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) which was devised by Dr. Mullis, has Dr. Carlsson has made substantial contributions towards the clarification revolutionized molecular genetics, molecular biology, medicine and many other of the functions of dopamine in the brain. This has promoted causal treatment related scientific fields. The PCR is a way of amplifying specific DNA sequences of Parkinson’s disease. In 1988, he presented a modified hypothesis on from small amounts of a complex template. Thus, in medicine the PCR has had schizophrenia. This showed a direction to understand schizophrenia as a a major impact on the diagnosis and screening of genetic diseases and cancer, putative transmitter imbalance syndrome and opened up new therapeutic the rapid detection of fatidious or slow growing microorganisms and viruses, strategies for Parkinson’s disease. He has been an international leader in the the detection of minimal residual disease in leukemia. The method has also field of neuropsychophamacology for three decades. His original and unique been applied to studies on molecular evolution. Analysis of DNAs from different discoveries in dopamine research have led to a new understanding and new human populations allowed the construction of phylogenetic trees. Samples of effective treatments for Schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease. He has made historic or ancient DNA from extinct species have successfully been subjected a great contribution to the development of psychology and psychiatry from the to PCR amplification. This capability of analyzing minute quantities of degraded field of neuropsychopharmacology. DNA makes it possible to apply PCR for forensic purposes.
－14－ 1995（11th） 1996（12th）
Category of Information, Category of Materials Processing Technologies Computer and Communication Systems
Outstanding contributions to research and practical applications of light emitting diodes and lasers through pioneering achievements For pioneering research on wide- in the understanding of physical principles band, low-loss optical fiber and in the process technology of intermetallic communications compound semiconductors
Dr. Nick Holonyak, Jr. Dr. Charles K. Kao Professor, Center for Advanced Study, John Vice-Chancellor and President, Bardeen Chair Professor, University of Illinois The Chinese University of Hong Kong. USA Born in 1928 USA Born in 1933
Dr. Holonyak, focused his research on intermetallic compound semiconductors, The research on optical communications, which is expected to bring forth which led him to the invention of the first practical light emitting diode (LED) by the extensive social innovation, substantially started in 1960 with the invention use of GaAsP crystals. In 1962, he made the first visible light semiconductor laser. of the laser, followed by studies on light source, transmission line and He extended his research to develop ternary and quaternary compound photodetectors. Dr. Kao predicted in specific terms the possibility of realizing semiconductors, and was the first to succeed in independent control of the energy large capacity optical communications using optical fiber, at an earlier phase, gap and lattice constant for preparing devices. based on his own reasoning for the applicability of optical fiber to the large He was the first (1978) to achieve continuous room temperature operation of a capacity transmission, and estimation of possible transmission range on the laser with quantum-well-structure. basis of presupposed loss and tolerable photoelectric power level. He played Dr. Holonyak’s achievements ranging from research to practical developments pioneering and leading roles in the exploitation of optical fiber transmission on light-emitting diodes and lasers gave continuous stimulus and remarkable lines and his works are clearly appreciated in the world as having exerted a enrichment both to physics and technology. significant impact on the subsequent development of optical communication technology.
Category of Science and Technology for Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery which conserves the Environment Category of Neuroscience
Pioneer contributions in the Elucidation of the functional development of integrated pest principles and neural mechanisms management by the sterile of the cerebellum insect release method and other biological approaches Dr. Masao Ito D i r e c to r- G e n e r a l, Fr o n ti e r R e s e a r c h Dr. Edward F. Knipling Program, The Institute of Physical and Retired Director, Entomology Research Chemical Research Division, Agricultural Research Service President, Science Council of Japan USA Born in 1909 Died in 2000 Japan Born in 1928
Dr. Knipling has devoted himself to the research on insect pest as a Dr. Ito has tried over 40 years to elucidate neural mechanisms of the brain by agricultural entomologist since 1931. He proposed the truly original idea of using a combination of neurophysiological, cell-biological, system-theoretical, environmentally friendly pest control by suppressing the insect population in and molecular biological approaches. In particular, he succesfully revealed agricultural crops and domestic animals. Accordingly, he made outstanding several basic features of cerebellar function, such as inhibitory output of the contributions to the improvement of food production. He developed a new Purkinje cells which is mediated -aminobutyric acid. He also found that the concept of insect pest control known as the sterile insect release method. In flocculus of the cerebellum plays a key role in adaptive control of the vestibule- 1931 he attained great success in eradicating the screwworm fly, a serious ocular reflex, a basic reflex circuit, by way of a synaptic plasticity, the long-term and sometimes fatal pest of livestock in the Southwest region of the United depression, which is the basic of the learning capability of cerebellar cortical States. From 1953, he made important contributions to the development of an neural circuits. Furthermore, he and his collaborators elucidated molecular environmentally sound method of insect pest control. He proposed and played processes underlying long-term depression. They succeeded in inducing a a key role in promoting Integrated Pest Management. He played a leading role reversible learning deficit by temporally inactivating long-term depression. in scientific research and in application of his findings in terms of pest control The recent model he proposed aims at explaining a certain category of mental without harming the environment. function, implicit memory, as function of the newest part of the cerebellum. His success gave a great impetus to researches in the neuroscience discipline.
－15－ 1997（13th）
Category of Systems Engineering for an Artifactual Environment Category of Biotechnology in Medicine
Establishment of the robot industry and creation of a Contribution to establishment of fundamental concept on techno-global paradigm (Joint Award) causes of cancer (Joint Award)
Dr. Joseph F. Engelberger Dr. Takashi Sugimura Chairman and Director, HelpMate Robotics Inc. President Emeritus of National Cancer USA Born in 1925 Center and President of Toho University Japan Born in 1926 Dr. Engelberger foresaw from the beginning that machines called robots would markedly As early as 1957, Dr. Sugimura discovered the improve productivity and was a key person in carcinogenicity of a mutagen, 4-nitroquinoline- their development and introduction for practical 1-oxide. In 1967, he successfully induced purposes. He has greatly contributed to the stomach cancer in rats by oral administration of a long-term expansion and development of the mutagen, N-methyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine. world economy by innovatively improving He subsequently established the fact that many productivity in the manufacturing industry. carcinogens were mutagens. He successfully isolated and identified many carcinogens with a structure of heterocyclic amine from foods cooked under ordinary conditions. He further developed his studies to analyze multiple step carcinogenesis at molecular levels. He demonstrated that many environmental Dr. Hiroyuki Yoshikawa carcinogens could be identified by their mutagenicity. He has made crucial contributions Former President, The University of Tokyo to the establishment of the fundamental concept Japan Born in 1933 on causes of cancer.
D r. Yo s h i k a w a h a s s h o w n t h a t t h e professional disciplines associated with the production of artifacts have been too specialized with respect to the system of knowledge, which has made the solving of such Dr. Bruce N. Ames problems as environmental destruction and Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular depletion of resources difficult. Biology, University of California, Berkeley He has played a leading role in research in systematizing knowledge related to design USA Born in 1928 and manufacturing and has developed a new field called general design theory. Based on Dr. Ames first established an efficient in this concept, he has proposed artifactual vitro assay for mutagens using Salmonella e n g i n e e r i n g i n o rd e r t o s o l v e t h e a b o v e in 1971. This “Ames test” has been used problems. widely in research institutes, industries and regulatory agencies around the world for screening environmental carcinogens and mutagens. This test has also been used to study metabolisms of carcinogens and mutagens. He established the fact that many carcinogens were mutagens. He made further contributions to the understanding of endogenous oxygenradicals in carcinogenesis and to the understanding of the mechanisms involved in aging. He demonstrated the close relationship between mutagenicity and carcinogenicity. He has made crucial contributions to the establishment of the fundamental concept of causes of cancer.
－16－ 1998（14th） 1999（15th）
Category of Generation and Design of New Materials Creating Novel Functions Category of Information Technologies
For the creation and realization Establishment of coding theory of the concept of man-made for reliable digital communication, superlattice crystals which lead to broadcasting and storage generation of new materials with useful applications Dr. W. Wesley Peterson Dr. Leo Esaki Professor of Information and Computer Former President, University of Tsukuba Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa Japan Born in 1925 USA Born in 1924 Died in 2009
Dr. Esaki proposed the concept of “semiconductor superlattice,” realized it, Dr. Peterson authored Error-Correcting Codes, the “bible” for the coding and discovered its peculiar properties such as negative differential conductivity theory, and established the fundamentals of this field. He created the conceptual and resonant tunneling. His concept of the superlattice inspired many other framework of coding theory on the basis of modern algebra and invented scientists. It underlies the high-speed transistor HEMT, optical devices with practical implementation methods for error detection and correction. This led multiple-quantum wells, and giant magneto-resistance. “Superlattice” was a to an exceptionally important contribution in the industrial application of error- great accomplishment in terms of the generation and design of new materials to correcting codes. Current digital communication, broadcasting and storage create novel functions. (Dr. Esaki was awarded with a Nobel Prize in Physics in systems owe their reliability to his research results. 1973 for his discovery of tunneling in semiconductor p-n junctions. Superlattice is another great accomplishment he has made.) Category of Molecular Recognition and Dynamics in Bioscience Category of Biotechnology in Agricultural Sciences Elucidation of the three-dimensional structures of class I and class II human histocompatibility antigens and their Establishment of the theory and method of the production bound peptides” (Joint Award) of transgenic plants (Joint Award) Dr. Jack L. Strominger Prof. Dr. Jozef S. Schell Higgins Professor of Biochmistry, Harvard University. Director, Department of Genetic USA Born in 1925 Principles of Plant Breeding, Max-Planck-Institute für Züechtungsforschung, Germany Belgium Born in 1935 Died in 2003
Dr. Don C. Wiley Dr. Marc C.E. Van Montagu John L. Loeb Professor of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Harvard University. Professor, Department of Genetics, USA Born in 1944 Died in 2001 University of Ghent, Belguim. Belgium Born in 1933
Dr. Strominger and Dr. Wiley were the first to elucidate the three-dimensional structures of the human histocompatibility complex class I and class II Dr. Schell and Dr. Van Montagu showed that the formation of tumors in plants molecules. Their work provided a detailed understanding of how peptides with Agrobacterium is attributable to insertion of some genes contained in the derived from processed foreign antigens and self proteins are presented to T bacteria into the nuclear genomes of host plants. They utilized this system to lymphocytes for the initiation of an immune response. Their work also opened develop methods for efficient transfer of foreign genes into plant genomes. Recent a wide vista for investigation of autoimmunity, transplantation rejection, tumor advances in the production of transgenic plants have been based on their work. immunity and the response to foreign pathogens.
－17－ 2000（16th） 2001（17th）
Category of Science and Category of City Planning Technology of Environment Conscious Materials
Establishment of an ecological city Discovery of environmentally planning process and proposal of benign electrode materials for a land use evaluation system high energy density rechargeable lithium batteries Prof. Ian L. McHarg Professor Emeritus, Department of Landscape Architecture and Regional Dr. John B. Goodenough Planning, University of Pennsylvania. Professor, University of Texas USA Born in 1920 Died in 2001 USA Born in 1922
Prof. McHarg introduced ecological ideas into city planning, visualized Dr. Goodenouth recorded notable achievements in the field of solid-state environmental ecosystems on overlay maps of factors such as physiography, science and made a great contribution to fundamental science. His well- hydrology, vegetation, and historical landmarks, and developed an innovative known studies are on magnetism and the conductivity of transition metal land use evaluation system, clarifying the suitability of, and restrictions on, compounds and on superionic conductors. Based on these research results land use. He is recognized as a founder of ecological planning, because of his and with profound insights, he found electrode materials for high-performance distinguished achievements in the 1960s - when disorderly urban developments lithium batteries and used these materials to develop high-capacity portable dominated - in ecological city planning, making the most of the abundant rechargeable batteries. These batteries are not only environmentally benign but potential capabilities of nature. His methodology has had great influence upon also very effective in the reduction of carbon dioxide emission. city planning in an age when the global environment is of the utmost concern.
Category of Host Defense Category of Marine Biology
Contribution to the development of Discovery of Immunoglobulin E biological / fisheries oceanography and mechanisms of IgE-mediated and for conservation of fishery allergic reactions resources and marine environment
Dr. Kimishige Ishizaka Dr. Timothy R. Parsons President Emeritus, La Jolla Institute for Professor Emeritus, University of British Allergy and Immunology Columbia Japan Born in 1925 Canada Born in 1932
Dr. Ishizaka was the first to discover immunoglobulin E and to elucidate Through his research devoted to obtaining a holistic understanding of fundamental mechanisms of allergic reaction at cellular and molecular levels. how pelagic organisms are interconnected in the trophodynamic food-web His work has profoundly influenced other medical research areas and even of the sea, Dr. Parsons has made a great contribution to the development of contributed to the clinical diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases. Biological Oceanography as determined today. His goal has been to present an alternative method for the management of fisheries, based on measuring of dynamic relationships between fish and their physical, chemical and biological environments.
－18－ 2002（18th） 2003（19th）
Category of Computing and Computational Science and Engineering Category of Science and Technology of Complexity Creation of universal concepts in complex systems Advancement of civilization - chaos and fractals (Joint Award) through invention, implementation Dr. Benoit B. Mandelbrot and deployment of the world wide web Sterling Professor of Mathematical Sciences, Mathematics Department, Yale University IBM Fellow Emeritus, TJ Watson Dr. Timothy John Berners-Lee Research Center, International Business Machines Corporation Senior Research Scientist, Laboratory for USA Born in 1924 Died in 2010 Computer Science, M.I.T. UK Born in 1955
Dr. Berners-Lee is the inventor of the World Wide Web (www). Through his invention people were able to acquire information and work together by combining their knowledge in a web using hypertext documents through the Internet. He implemented the first Dr. James A. Yorke www using HTML, Hypertext Markup Language developed by himself. The www has made revolutionary change in information exchange and communication among people, Distinguished Universit y Professor of contributing to the globalization of information and communication in the world. It has Mathematics and Physics, Institute for created new forms of commercial and industrial activities like E-commerce, internet P h y s i c a l S c i e n c e s a n d Te c h n o l o g y, publications of newspapers and books, and more. The World Wide Web has made a University of Maryland profound and farreaching contribution not only to science and technology but also to the USA Born in 1941. advancement of the civilization.
Category of Developmental Biology
Pioneering work on mammalian embryonic development” (Joint Award) The world we live in is so complex that it is an enormous challenge to understand Dr. Anne McLaren, the fundamental nature of its complexities. Nature is filled with complex geometrical shapes. Dr. Mandelbrot discovered that “self-similarity”is the universal property that DBE, FRS, FRCOG underlies such complex shapes, and he coined the expression “fractal.” Principal Research Associate, Wellcome Many different, variable complex patterns of behavior are found in dynamic phenomena, Dr. Yorke found the universal mechanism underlying such nonlinear Trust / CRC Institute dynamic phenomena and summed it up using the term “chaos.” UK Born in 1927 Died in 2007 The two concepts, chaos and fractals, have been established as universal concepts underlying such phenomena. Dr. Mandelbrot and Dr. Yorke utilized, respectively, the terms fractal and chaos and elucidated their fundamental properties. They have provided new frameworks for understanding complex phenomena, and have defined both their foundations and their applications.
Category of Visualizing Techniques in Medicine Dr. Andrzej K. Tarkowski Director of the Institute of Zoology, Discovery of the principle for Warsaw University Poland Born in 1933 functional magnetic resonance imaging
Dr. Seiji Ogawa Director, Ogawa Laboratories for Brain Function Research, Hamano Life Science Research Foundation Japan Born in 1934 Drs. McLaren and Tarkowski pioneered the developmental biology of mammals using a mouse as a model and established technologies to manipulate early embryos. Taking advantage Dr. Ogawa discovered the principle upon which the field of functional and physiological of chimeric embryos in particular, they demonstrated the enormous plasticity of early embryonic imaging of the human body, particularly the human brain, is based. He searched for physiologically cells, and gave deep insight into fundamental questions on mammalian embryonic development, dependent signals in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and found BOLD (Blood Oxygenation such as how sexes differentiate, how genetic information of sexually distinct parents differentially Level Dependent) signal contrast in MR images of the brain, This work has proved to be the contributes to development, and how cells interact in developing tissues. This work has proved fundamental basis of noninvasive functional imaging methodology that is now widely used not only fundamental as regards major issues not only of current developmental biology which are of in many biological and medical sciences, such as neurobiology, psychology and neurology, but also increasing importance, but also for the progress of basic medical and veterinary sciences. in many fields of clinical medicine as diagnostic tools.
－19－ 2004（20th）
Category of Chemical Technology for the Environment Category of Food Production Based on Ecosystem Concepts
Pioneering work on photochemical catalysis and its Contributions to the understanding application for the environment (Joint Award) of shelf ecosystems and their sustainable utilization
Dr. Kenichi Honda Dr. Keith J. Sainsbury Professor Emeritus, The University of Tokyo S e n i o r Pr i n c i p a l R e s e a r c h S c i e n ti s t , Japan Born in 1925 Died in 2011 Division of Marine Research, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization New Zealand Born in 1951
Dr. Sainsbury greatly contributed to the establishment of marine bio-resource management strategies for sustainable fishery production based on his basic studies on population dynamics including experimental fishery management mainly of demersal fish resources in the shelf ecosystem and consequently to the planning of the Australian marine policy. He also contributed much to the development of a paradigm for sustainable utilization of fishery resources in Dr. Akira Fujishima tropical and temperate marine areas. Chairman, Kanagawa Academy of Science and Technology Japan Born in 1942
Category of Science and Technology for Conservation of Biodiversity
Observational, experimental and theoretical achievements for the Dr. Honda and Dr. Fujishima found that irradiation of solar light onto a single scientific understanding and crystal titanium dioxide (T iO 2) electrode resulted in the splitting of water into hydrogen and oxygen (The Honda-Fujishima effect). Thus, they pioneered conservation of biodiversity research on artificial photosynthesis and production of hydrogen as a clean energy from water by using solar light. Furthermore, the development of the Prof. John H. Lawton self-cleaning coatings of T iO 2 on a variety of surfaces is going to produce a new industry of photocatalysts, which significantly contributes to environmental Chief E xecutive, Natural Environment conservation. The contributions of these two scientists to “Chemical Technology Research Council for the Environment” for the sustainable development of society are enormous. UK Born in 1943
Prof. Lawton is a prolific contributor to fundamental research on the ecological aspect of biodiversity. He studied various organisms, including birds, mammals, insects, and plants. He analyzed various species of these groups and the ways in which they co-exist with other species. Based on conservation, biological observation and analysis, he also contributed to the protection of bird species, actually serving as a key person in environmental NGOs.
－20－ 2005（21st） 2006（22nd）
Category of Information and Media Technology Category of Global Change
For pioneeering research on atmospheric Pioneering contributions to structure and composition based on his satellite natural language processing and observation technology and for promotion of intelligent image processing international assessments of climate change.
Sir John Houghton Dr. Makoto Nagao Honorary Scientist, Hadley Centre for Climate President, National Institute of Information Prediction and Research and Formerly Chief and Communications Technology Executive, Meteorological Offi ce, U.K. Japan Born in 1936 UK Born in 1931
Dr. Nagao has pioneered research in the fi elds of machine translation, natural language Observations by weather satellites began in the 1970s. When Sir John processing, and image processing, and has achieved extensive results that have had a Houghton developed a new means for making observations to measure signifi cant impact on other researchers in this fi eld. Notably, he developed a fully functional the temperatures and composition of the upper atmosphere based on his Japanese-to-English / English-to-Japanese translation system, and was the world’s fi rst independent theory. This opened the way to elucidating the three-dimensional advocate of example based translation in machine translation. In image processing, he temperature structure of, and distribution of micro-components such as ozone was the fi rst to introduce feedback analysis mechanisms, which had a dramatic impact in the atmosphere across the entire globe. Then he established the Hadley on many later research activities. He developed the world’s fi rst digital library prototype Centre for Climate Prediction and Research to pursue this research and to study system incorporating natural language processing and image processing technologies, and international climate change. He also has played a central role in compiling has contributed to the new digital library era. In addition to being a pioneer, Dr. Nagao has the First, Second and Third Assessment Reports under the auspices of the been a leader in this fi eld as well, for example as a founder of the International Association Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). for Machine Translation and The Association for Natural Language Processing.
Category of The Development of Novel Therapeutic Concepts Category of Cell Biology and Technologies Fundamental contribution in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of cell adhesion (Joint Award)
Dr. Masatoshi Takeichi The discovery of the statins and their development Director of RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology Japan Born in 1943 Dr. Akira Endo Director, Biopharm Research Laboratories, Inc., Tokyo, Japan Japan Born in 1933
In 1973 Dr. Endo isolated from penicillium a ground-breaking substance called ML-236B (currently known as compactin) that lowers blood cholesterol levels, and confirmed that it was also effective in humans. This discovery Dr. Erkki Ruoslahti triggered world-wide research into the compactin group and resulted in the birth of several hypercholesteremia drugs from amongst that group. These drugs, Distinguished Professor, known collectively as statins, are presently used by approximately thirty million The Burnham Institute people around the world and help to prevent cardiac disease and strokes and USA Born in 1940 so on.
Cell adhesion is fundamentally important in the construction of tissues and organs. Dr. Takeichi and Dr. Ruoslahti pinpointed the essential core processes in the complex phenomena of cell adhesion and succeeded in elucidating the mechanisms at the molecular level. Their accomplishments are expected to fundamentally contribute to working out the etiology and developing therapy of serious diseases such as malignant tumors.
－21－ 2007（23rd） 2008（24th）
Category of Innovative Devices Inspired by Basic Research Category of Information Communication Theory and Technology
The discovery of Giant Magneto-Resistance(GMR) and its Creation of network architecture and communication contribution to development of innovative spin-electronics protocol for the Internet (Joint Award) devices (Joint Award)
Prof. Albert Fert Dr. Vinton G.Cerf University of Paris-South Vice President and Chief Internet France Born in 1938 Evangelist, Google Inc. USA Born in 1943
Prof. Dr. Peter Grünberg Dr. Robert E.Kahn The Research Center of Solid State Physics Chairman, CEO & President of Germany Born in 1939 Corporation for National Research Initiatives United States Born in 1938
Computer hard discs, which store vast amounts of memory, are improving year by The appearance of the Internet has pioneered the way for the establishment of a year and at a faster rate than ever before. Now, however, these memory storage discs are network society that has completely transformed the lifestyles of people around the not limited to computers, but are also being used in such electronic appliances as mobile world. Two men in particular were instrumental in the creation of the concept for the music devices and video cameras. The reason behind the great increases in memory basic framework and the TCP/IP communication protocol which has made the Internet storage capacity and the rapidly diversifying use of hard discs is the discovery of Giant possible. These men are Dr. Cerf and Dr. Kahn. Known as the “Fathers of the Internet,” Magneto-Resistance (GMR), a groundbreaking technological innovation. The researchers Dr. Cerf and Dr. Kahn continue to lead advances in information communication. responsible for this astonishing discovery are Prof. Fert and Prof. Dr. Grünberg. Category of Medical Genomics and Genetics Category of Science and Technology of Harmonious Co-Existence
Establishment of medical genetics and contributions to its Contribution to the conservation of development tropical forest Dr. Victor A. McKusick University Professor of Medical Genetics, Dr. Peter Shaw Ashton the McKusick- Nathans Institute of Genetic Charles Bullard Professor of Forestry Medicine at the Johns Hopkins University UK Born in 1934 USA Born in 1921 Died in 2008
With the completion of the human genome project, we have come to understand In recent times, the destruction of tropical forests has been progressing at an alarming almost all of the genetic information contained in DNA, which is encoded in a series rate. Tropical forests are a veritable treasury of a diverse array of many forms of life, and of letters. However, we are still some way from fully identifying those parts which it is widely believed that the loss of this environment would have a major impact on the are related to the treatment of diseases. Dr. McKusick, has spent over half a century ecosystem of the entire planet. Dr. Ashton was awarded the 2007 Japan Prize in the category compiling related knowledge, and advocating the importance of the formulation of “Science and Technology of Harmonious Co-Existence” for his extensive research into the of a genomic map for genetic disorders. Today, researchers and clinicians around phylogenetic systemization of flora and ecological studies in the tropical forests of Southeast the world are sharing the fruits of Dr. McKusick’s labors which have become Asia, and the contribution his findings have made to tropical conservation efforts. indispensable to the world of genetic medicine.
－22－ 2009（25th） 2010（26th）
Category of Transformation towards a Sustainable Society in Harmony with Nature Category of Industrial Production and Production Technology
Contribution towards a sustainable Contributions to high-density world as founded in the 1972 magnetic recording technology by Report titled ‘The Limits to Growth the development of a perpendicular magnetic recording method Dr. Dennis L. Meadows Professor Emeritus of Systems Policy, Prof. Shun-ichi Iwasaki University of New Hampshire Director, Tohoku Institute of Technology President,Laboratory for Interactive Learning Professor Emeritus, Tohoku University USA Born in 1942 (Japan Born in 1926
For humanity, the Earth is both irreplaceable and finite. The continued LSI (large-scale integration) and the HDD (hard disk drive) which records survival of humanity on Earth depends on its success in creating a "sustainable information have played major roles in the progress of computer technology society." More than 30 years ago, Dr. Meadows was at the center of a research in the 20th century. It is not an exaggeration to say that the miniaturization group that used scientifi c analysis to make this point. "The Limits to Growth" and the increasing capacity of the HDD have created the information society shocked the world when fi rst published in 1972, and it continues even today to through the Internet. Furthermore, what is giving behind-the-scenes support to illuminate the way forward. the attainment of the next-generation system such as cloud computing is the ever-increasing capacity of the HDD by means of the perpendicular magnetic recording method. Prof. Iwasaki, through inspiration from the research of the magnetic recording principle, has developed the perpendicular magnetic recording method, which is more advantageous in attaining higher capacity in comparison to the conventional horizontal magnetic recording method. Since he advocated this method to the world in 1977, he has continued research and development for the practical application thereof.
Category of Technological Integration of Medical Science and Engineering. Category of Biological Production and Environment
Contributions to solving global Contribution to tomographic environmental issues based on imaging in nuclear medicine the analysis of nitrogen and other substances’ cycles
Dr. David E. Kuhl Professor, Radiology, Prof. Peter Vitousek University of Michigan Medical School Professor of Biology, Stanford University USA Born in 1929 USA Born in 1949
Today various types of diagnostic imaging systems including CT (computed Since the Industrial Revolution, human economic activities have continued tomography) are used on a daily basis in hospitals and clinics all over the world. to expand, making the earth a relatively smaller place. Prof. Vitousek, an Dr. Kuhl, one of the world pioneers in tomography, began experimenting in the expert in ecosystems ecology, has been studying the material cycle of such late 1950s by taking cross-sectional images of the distribution of radioisotopes nutrient elements as nitrogen and phosphorus in the ecosystem. Based on the in the body. He went on to develop SPECT (single photon emission computed aforementioned research, Prof. Vitousek has made pioneering achievements tomography) in the late 1960s and succeeded in producing the world’s first in the fi eld of “biogeochemistry,” which analyzes how various factors infl uence tomographic images of the human body. In addition to having a profound the ecosystem. From his achievements, he has pointed out the serious effects impact on the subsequent development of X-ray CT scanning and MRI (magnetic human activities have on the global environment as well as potential solutions resonance imaging), Dr. Kuhl’s research brought about the realization of PET for solving global environmental issues. (positron emission tomography), which is proving to be invaluable in the early detection of cancers.
－23－ 2011（27th）
Category of Information and Communications Category of Bioscience and Medical Science
Discovery of interleukin-6 and its application in treating Development of the operating system, UNIX (Joint Award) diseases (Joint Award)
Dr. Dennis M. Ritchie Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Emeritus Professor, Osaka University Emeritus, Bell Labs JAPAN Born in 1939 USA Born in 1941
Dr. Ken L. Thompson Dr. Toshio Hirano Distinguished Engineer, Google Inc. Professor, Osaka University USA Born in 1943 JAPAN Born in 1947
With present computer systems, basic software called operating Our bodies detect external invasions of bacteria and viruses and systems are used in addition to application software to perform word eliminate them. This mechanism is called “immunity.” Immunity is processor, spreadsheet tasks, and so on. Dr. Dennis Ritchie and Dr. a complex system consisting of various cells such as lymphocytes Ken Thompson developed an advanced operating system called (T-cells, B-cells) and macrophage, but the substance which plays UNIX in 1969. The operating systems in those days were increasing an important role in transmitting information between cells is in scale but becoming complex and disorderly. With UNIX, stability called interleukin. Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto and Dr. Toshio Hirano and high-speed performance could be attained by combining have purified interleukin 6 (IL-6), which plays a vital part in the modularized programs. UNIX’s superior design concept has been production of antibodies, and also succeeded in gene cloning in carried on by many computer technicians, and has supported the 1986. In addition, the two doctors have identified a wide range of development of an advanced information society including the functions of IL-6 and their research results have contributed to the Internet. progress of bioscience and the development of therapeutic drugs for infl ammatory diseases.
－24－ Directors, Auditors and Councilors of the Foundation
■ Directors, Auditors (As of April 1, 2011)
President Masao Ito Senior Advisor, RIKEN Brain Science Institute
Director - General Chairman Hiroyuki Yoshikawa Center for Research and Development Strategy, Japan Science and Technology Agency Senior Executive Ken Shimba Secretary General, The Japan Prize Foundation Director
Directors Masahiro Ando President, Shin Joho Center, Inc.
Hiroto Ishida Visiting Professor, The University of Tokyo
Yoshio Karita Senior Advisor, Mori Building Co., Ltd.
Nobuhide Kasagi Professor, The University of Tokyo
Masayuki Matsushita Vice Chairman of the Board, Panasonic Corporation
Director of Administration, The Matsushita Institute of Government Auditors Tsuneo Ibuka and Management
Akio Nomura Senior Advisor, Osaka Gas Co., Ltd.
■ Councilors (As of April 1, 2011)
Chairman of Board of Councilors Taro Nakayama Former Member of the House of Representatives Vice-Chairman of Board of Councilors Nobuaki Kumagai Professor Emeritus, Osaka University
Councilors Haruo Hirano Vice Chairman, Japan Information Center
Hiroo Inokuchi Research Director, Toyota Physical and Chemical Research Institute
Moriya Koyama Adviser, SECOM Co., Ltd.
Tomonori Kudoh Comptroller, Tokyo Denki University
Wataru Mori Professor Emeritus, The University of Tokyo
Yoichi Morishita Corporate Counsellor, Panasonic Corporation
Shigeru Motai Adviser, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Technical Information Society
Saburo Nagakura President, Musashino Free University
Akira Nishigaki Former Administrative Vice Minister of Finance
Takashi Sugimura Vice President, The Japan Academy
Michio Suzuki Adviser, Public Association for Construction Service of Kanto Region
Nobutaka Takahashi Professor Emeritus, The University of Tokyo
Shoichiro Toyoda Honorary Chairman, Toyota Motor Corporation
Maomi Yamashita Advisor, Association of Japan National Pension
－25－ Donating to our foundation Any donations to our foundation will be greatly received. The money will go towards expanding our foundation’s activities. If you wish to make a donation or have any queries, please contact our office. Our foundation is a certified Public Interest Incorporated Foundation which falls under the category of “Special Public Interest Promotion Corporation”. Personal or corporate, any donation to our foundation will be given preferential tax treatment according to the tax laws.
－26－
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Akasaka Twin Tower East, 13th Floor, 2-17-22 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052, JAPAN Tel: +81-3-5545-0551 Fax: +81-3-5545-0554 www.japanprize.jp