Projects

International Joint Research

Project Title Bio-based Pretreatment for Enhanced Seawater Desalination

Research FieldWater Security
Project DurationJanuary 2025-December 2027
Philippines国旗マークPhilippines
Japan-side PI OKUDA Tetsuji (Professor, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Ryukoku University)
Partner PI Ramon Christian P. EUSEBIO (Associate Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of the Philippines Los Banos)
Abstract New water desalination system powered by sustainable energy will be developed for seawater on the core technology of RO (reverse osmosis) membranes with pre-treatment by bio-base materials, which is sustainable and guaranteed as a water source even in islands and in times of big-disaster.
Specifically, based on their respective achievements, the Japanese side will develop pre-treatment technology for membrane using the adsorbents and coagulants from a plant “Moringa” and the filtration system powered by biofuels will be developed. The Philippine side will focus on the fabrication of membranes and the utilization of agricultural by-products to produce adsorbents, which will be used in enhancing the performance of the solar-powered desalination system with an improved pretreatment process.
Through this joint research by these teams composed of researchers from both countries, a compact desalination system will be fabricated for a sustainable seawater desalination system that utilizes biological materials and can be used even in places without electricity supply.

Project Title Synergistic Strategies for Sustainable Water Resources and Dam Management under Extreme Climate Variability

Research FieldWater Security
Project DurationJanuary 2025-December 2027
Philippines国旗マークPhilippines
Japan-side PI KANTOUSH Sameh Ahmed (Professor, Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University)
Partner PI Jeoffrey Lloyd BARENG (Professor, College of Engineering, Isabela State University)
Abstract This research integrates long-term ensemble rainfall predictions with ensemble climate prediction databases to forecast extreme floods linked to super typhoons and abnormal droughts caused by climate change. The goal is to enhance the operations of Magat dam for effective flood mitigation and create a web-based platform for the Cagayan River Basin to share research findings with the Philippine community.
Specifically, the Japanese team will simulate dam operations using remote sensing data and satellite imagery while downscaling of global climate predictions to regional and basin levels. The Philippine team will then incorporate these findings into policy planning, which includes developing water security indicators and master plans for local governments in the Cagayan River Basin.
Through the collaborative efforts of teams from both countries, we aim to establish new guidelines for water resource management based on hydrological predictions. Additionally, we will focus on developing human resources to implement these guidelines and strengthening adaptation measures to address the increase in extreme weather events resulting from future climate change.

Project Title Systematic Monitoring Survey of Perfluorinated and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) in Laguna - from Water Source to Distribution End Point, Drinking Water

Research FieldWater Security
Project DurationJanuary 2025-December 2027
Philippines国旗マークPhilippines
Japan-side PI KUNISUE Tatsuya (Professor, Center for Marine Environmental Studies, Ehime University)
Partner PI Anna Karen Carrasco LASERNA (Academic Service Faculty, Central Instrumentation Facility, De La Salle University)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to assess human risks for exposure of perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), which attract attention worldwide, via drinking water and provide scientific data useful for formulating future regulations and guidelines for PFAS in the Philippines, by elucidating residue levels of PFAS in water sources and drinking water from Laguna.
The Japanese team conducts target analysis of 36 emerging PFAS compounds in addition to 3 PFAS compounds (PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS) which have been already registered in the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, while the Philippine team performs sampling and pretreatment/purification of spring, ground and well water as water sources and treated-/bottled water for PFAS analysis. Additionally, both teams conduct nontarget analysis cooperatively to verify the presence and behavior of unidentified PFAS in the above water samples, leading to novel study outcomes.
Eventually, this collaborative research is expected to provide fundamental data useful for reduction and treatment measures of PFAS in the Philippines.

Project Title Strengthening Water Security and Resilience through Prioritization of Emerging Pollutants for Drinking Water and Protection of Aquatic Life in Laguna Lake, Philippines

Research FieldWater Security
Project DurationJanuary 2025-December 2027
Philippines国旗マークPhilippines
Japan-side PI KURISU Futoshi (Professor, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo)
Partner PI Janice B. SEVILLA-NASTOR (Associate Professor, School of Environmental Science and Management, University of the Philippines Los Banos)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to prioritize hazardous chemicals to be monitored in water quality management in the Philippines. Specifically, the study will focus on Laguna Lake, which is a multi-use water resource including source of domestic water supply, aquaculture, irrigation water, recreation, etc.
The Philippine team will conduct a survey of chemical substances to be considered based on analysis of statistical data on chemical imports, as well as information provided by local companies. Based on the information obtained, the Japanese team will conduct a screening analysis using a high-resolution mass spectrometer and evaluate whether they are present in concentrations that threaten human health and aquatic life.
Through joint research by the two research teams, the project will develop a method for prioritization of emerging pollutants for monitoring and management, and monitoring methods will be presented to administrative sections to enable safe management of water resources.

Project Title Assessment of Emerging Microbial Contaminants in the Aquatic Environment and Water/Wastewater Treatment Systems to Enhance Water Security and Public Health in the Philippines

Research FieldWater Security
Project DurationJanuary 2025-December 2027
Philippines国旗マークPhilippines
Japan-side PI HARAMOTO Eiji (Professor, Graduate Faculty of Interdisciplinary Research, University of Yamanashi)
Partner PI Marigold UBA (Full-time Senior Lecturer, Department of Biology, De La Salle University)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to clarify the occurrence of pathogens and antimicrobial resistance bacteria/genes in the aquatic environments in the Philippines and their reduction by water/wastewater treatment process, identifying new indicators to ensure the microbiological safety of water, and to establish a system for monitoring of the incidence of infectious diseases using wastewater-based epidemiology.
Specifically, the Japan team will provide technical guidance and transfer of methods for detection of pathogens, etc., and conduct measurements using state-of-the-art technologies for gene detection, such as digital PCR, and assess the risk of waterborne diseases. The Philippine team will conduct routine water sampling and establish a system for monitoring of microbial contaminants.
It is expected that this international collaborative research will lead to the establishment of an efficient monitoring system for microbiological safety of water and the proposal of countermeasures to reduce the load of microbial discharges and the risk of infectious diseases.

Project Title Integration of high-purity biohydrogen production processes for FCEV utilization

Research FieldGreen Technology
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Thailand国旗マークThailand
Japan-side PI INADA, Miki (Associate Professor, Faculty of Engineering / International Institute for Carbon Neutral Energy Research, Kyushu University)
Partner PI Navadol LAOSIRIPOJANA (Professor, The Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to develop a bio-photocatalytic process for hydrogen production directly from sunlight by combining inorganic photocatalysts such as TiO2 and Ga(Zn)ON with enzymes such as hydrogenases and nitrogenases. The results of the Japanese researchers show that a quantum yield of 30% for 350 nm light can be achieved with bio-photocatalysts in the presence of sacrificing agents, but sacrificing agents are still required. In this study, hydrogen is produced by sunlight using enzymes grown on biowaste such as lignin, which is being investigated by the Thai team, with the biowaste as a sacrificial agent. The Japanese researchers will use oxynitrides and other materials to improve the activity in bio-photocatalysts, while the Thai researchers will grow bacteria in biowaste and produce hydrogen in a dark reaction. On the other hand, as impurities are expected to be present in the hydrogen produced in this process, impurity removal will be investigated and polymer-based fuel cells will be used to clarify that the lifetime is not affected.

Project Title Innovative Green Technology: Thermotolerant Biohythane Production from Sugarcane Leaves for PM2.5 Reduction and Renewable Energy in Esan, Thailand

Research FieldGreen Technology
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Thailand国旗マークThailand
Japan-side PI IMAI, Tsuyoshi (Professor, Graduate School of Sciences and Technology for Innovation, Yamaguchi University)
Partner PI Alissara REUNGSANG (Professor, Faculty of Technology, Khon Kaen University)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to develop an innovative “thermotolerant + low pressure operation” fermentation process to produce Biohythane, a renewable energy blend of hydrogen and methane, using sugarcane leaves as feedstock in northeastern Thailand (Esan region). Specifically, the Japan side will provide basic technologies for “thermotolerant fermentation at around 45 ℃” and “fermentation with low pressure operation”. The Thailand side will conduct a solubilization of sugarcane leaves by hydrothermal treatment and use the hydrolysate as material for producing Biohythane by an innovative fermentation process with “thermotolerant + low pressure operation” (bench-scale). Through this collaborative research by both sides, it is expected to provide a solution to smoke pollution, which is becoming a social problem in northeastern Thailand (Esan region), and also to offer the way to convert agricultural residues (sugarcane leaves), which are currently treated as waste, into renewable energy. Ultimately, its social implementation will lead to a decarbonized society.

Project Title Study on the Drastic Enhancement of Hydrogen Production Efficiency in Z-Scheme Photocatalysts through Reverse Reaction Control

Research FieldGreen Technology
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Thailand国旗マークThailand
Japan-side PI KATO, Hideki (Professor, Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials, Tohoku University)
Partner PI Pornapa SUJARIDWORAKUN (Associate Professor, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to development of green hydrogen production by remarkable improvement of efficiency in Z-scheme water splitting through exploring modification methods that suppress reverse reactions, which decrease the overall efficiency. The Japan side team will explore new modification methods to suppress reverse reactions and also elucidate the mechanism based on (photo-)electrochemical measurements. The Thailand team will investigate synthesis conditions of photocatalyst materials to maximize the modification effects developed in this project, also perform theoretical calculation to support elucidating mechanism, and provide new photocatalyst materials for Z-scheme systems.The joint research will significantly contribute to the advancement of green hydrogen production technology by the integration of these methods and materials

Project Title Development of intermediate-temperature water electrolyzer using proton-conductive metalorganic frameworks

Research FieldGreen Technology
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Thailand国旗マークThailand
Japan-side PI HORIKE, Satoshi (Professor, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University)
Partner PI Kanokwan KONGPATPANICH (Assistant Professor, Molecular Science and Engineering, Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to significantly increase the efficiency of hydrogen gas generation by water electrolysis technology using a hybrid electrolyte material that exhibits high proton conductivity in a wide temperature range. The Japanese team will develop a new electrolyte material that combines metals and molecules, and the partner Thai team will construct a water electrolysis device using the new material, demonstrate hydrogen generation, and improve the device. The target temperature range for the devices will be 100 to 200℃ to achieve higher efficiency in water electrolysis and reduce the use of precious metal catalysts. The joint research between the two teams is expected to develop a technology for water electrolysis that is distinct from the organic polymers and ceramics used to date. The research will utilize the technological strengths of both the Japanese and Thai teams and will contribute to the dissemination and realization of a green hydrogen society and a low-carbon society.

Project Title A Combined Spectroscopic and Machine Learning Approach to Boosting Green Hydrogen Production via the Electro-oxidation of Urea

Research FieldGreen Technology
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Thailand国旗マークThailand
Japan-side PI MAEDA, Nobutaka (Associate Professor, International Institute for Carbon Neutral and Energy Research, Kyushu University)
Partner PI Kaewta JETSRISUPARB (Assistant Professor, Faculty of Engineering, Khon Kaen University)
Abstract The research aims to promote the production of green hydrogen through water electrolysis, contributing to the widespread adoption of fuel cell electric vehicles. This strategy focuses on utilizing urea electro oxidation as a powerful anodic reaction to enhance hydrogen generation at the cathode. This approach aims to reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels and enables the production of environmentally friendly fuel using abundant resources such as water. In this proposal, we bring together expertise from three fields: electrochemistry, advanced spectroscopy, and machine learning. The goal is to design and improve electrodes that facilitate efficient urea oxidation and hydrogen generation. This international collaborative research is expected to achieve groundbreaking results in the development of electrode catalysts, aiming for higher hydrogen production rates and purity. Through this research, we aim to foster the development of world leading talent in both countries by combining electrochemistry, spectroscopy, and machine learning. The project seeks not only to advance the field of green hydrogen production but also to cultivate skilled professionals who can lead the world in these interdisciplinary areas. By leveraging the strengths of each field, we hope to make significant strides in creating sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions.

Project Title Expressive and Empathetic Human-AI Interaction by Enhancing Multilingual, Multimodal Large Language Models

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI KAWAHARA, Tatsuya (Professor, School of Informatics, Kyoto University)
Partner PI Nancy CHEN (Group Leader, Institute for Infocomm Research, A*STAR)
Abstract Current interactive AIs based on large-scale language models focus on accuracy and objectivity, and thus generate uniform responses to any user. The goal of this research is to create a multimodal conversational AI that generates responses based on language and culture, as well as speaker personality and emotion. The Japanese team will work on emotion recognition, empathic response generation, and implementation in a humanoid robot/agent, while the counterpart team will focus on multilingual and multicultural support. Furthermore, by analyzing the user's personality and emotions from his/her voice and facial expressions, we will generate emotional and empathetic responses accordingly. Not only verbal responses, but also responses through laughter and facial expressions will be realized. By mutually providing each other with the results of their research, we will realize a robot agent that can engage in multilingual and multimodal dialogue, and demonstrate it in Singapore, a multilingual and multicultural society.

Project Title Robust Federated Foundation Model with Synthetic Data Generation

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI SAKUMA, Jun (Professor, School of Computing, Institute of Science Tokyo)
Partner PI Qingsong WEI (Principal Scientist, Institute of High Performance Computing, A*STAR)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to build a framework for achieving safe and efficient learning of foundation models through federated learning, which allows data to be distributed while training.
The Japanese team will address the issue of privacy in model learning and the issue of security in integrating distributed models. The partner team will develop a methodology for training of trusted foundation models through federated learning and address the issue of security and privacy protection.
Through joint research by the teams from both countries, it is hoped that a framework will be developed to solve the security and privacy issues that are a concern in federated learning of the base models.

Project Title Breaking Multimodal Correspondence: Crafting Safer and Fairer Multimodal AIGC

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI SATOH, Shin’ichi (Professor, Digital Content and Media Sciences Research Division, National Institute of Informatics)
Partner PI Joey ZHOU (Principal Scientist, Institute of High Performance Computing, A*STAR)
Abstract This collaborative research seeks to address key challenges in Artificial Intelligence Generated Content (AIGC) specifically to enhance the security, fairness, and effectiveness of multimodal AI systems. As the first to tackle these issues, our objectives are to develop advanced privacy protection methods that preserve the utility of multimodal data, introduce novel anonymization techniques to address cross-modal privacy risks, and create frameworks to detect and mitigate biases in multimodal data.
This project will involve close collaboration between researchers from both institutions. The backbone machine learning framework will be jointly developed. Singapore-side will put special emphasis on the first topic, Learning Fuzzy Cross-modal Correspondence for Privacy Preservation. On the other hand, Japan-side will especially address the second topic, Calibrating Demographic Distribution with Attribute Eraser for Fairness.
The anticipated scientific outcomes include the development of a robust framework for anonymizing and integrating user-uploaded media, ensuring data privacy, and enhancing fairness in AI model training. We expect this research to contribute to the broader field of generative AI by providing new insights into how privacy and fairness can be simultaneously addressed in large-scale model training.

Project Title Efficient and Private Large Multi-Modal Model Training and Inference over Heterogeneous Edge-Cloud Networks

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI CAO, Yang (Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science, Institute of Science Tokyo)
Partner PI Wei Yang Bryan LIM (Assistant Professor, College of Computing and Data Science, Nanyang Technological University)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to develop efficient and privacy-preserving methods for training and inference of Large Multimodal Models (LMMs) across statistically heterogeneous edge-cloud networks. LMMs, which process data from various modalities such as text, images, and audio, face deployment challenges on resource-constrained devices due to their large size. To address this, the project proposes a hybrid edge-cloud approach that balances local processing for low-latency tasks with cloud-based support for more complex computations. This proposal consists of introducing Federated Parameter-Efficient Fine-Tuning (PEFT) methods for LMMs in heterogeneous environments, focusing on multi-domain and multi-modal learning; addressing efficient multi-tier inference through Mixture of Experts (MoE) and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) to route tasks between the edge and cloud; ensuring privacy for federated LMMs with new mechanisms like metric differential privacy and Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs); and including real-world case studies such as autonomous vehicles and smart manufacturing, highlighting the need for low latency and strong privacy in AI systems. The research will combine expertise from international collaborators, aiming to make significant contributions to the fields of AI, edge computing, and privacy-preserving technologies.

Project Title Harnessing AI for Seismic Safety and Sustainability: Advancing AI-driven Technologies in Seismic Data Analysis, Subsurface Imaging, and Hazard Monitoring

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI NAGAO, Hiromichi (Associate Professor, Earthquake Research Institute, The University of Tokyo)
Partner PI Ping TONG (Associate Professor, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to significantly improve AI-driven underground visualization and earthquake risk assessment technologies by developing and enhancing various AI tools for seismic data analysis based on close international collaboration between Japan and Singapore, and to contribute not only to the development of seismology but also to the utilization of underground energy and sustainable urban development. The Japan side will be responsible for improving AI technology for detecting P- and S-waves, which are the first seismic waves to arrive when an earthquake occurs, as well as for compiling Japanese seismic observation data, while the Singapore side will be responsible for compiling Singaporean seismic observation data and developing AI technology for detecting subsequent waves, which arrive later than P- and S-waves. Through this joint research by the teams from both countries, it is hoped that AI-based earthquake prediction technology will be improved, and that this will contribute to sustainable urban developments that are robust against both short- and long-period seismic vibrations.

Project Title AI for Maritime Decarbonisation: Integrating Emerging Technologies to Vessel Navigation and Control

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2027
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI HANAOKA, Shinya (Professor, School of Environment and Society, Institute of Science Tokyo)
Partner PI Ran YAN (Assistant Professor, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to develop an integrated model based on a developed algorithm using cutting-edge AI technologies to enhance the sustainability of international maritime transport by optimizing the navigation efficiency and decarbonization of both manned and unmanned vessels operations along the Singapore-Japan Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC).
Specifically, the Japanese team will focus on collecting and processing meteorological data, verifying navigation algorithms and vessel fuel consumption prediction models, and developing and validating fine-grained ship voyage optimization models in dynamic environments and ship path-following control models. Meanwhile, the Singaporean team will be responsible for processing AIS data, developing and improving navigation solutions and vessel fuel consumption prediction models, as well as developing and enhancing fine-grained ship voyage optimization models in dynamic environments and ship path-following control models.
Through this collaborative research, the project aims to significantly reduce the environmental impact of international shipping and contribute to the creation of a more sustainable future for the maritime industry.

Project Title Advancing Electrified Transportation and Intelligent Systems through Physics-Informed Machine Learning in Wireless Power Transfer

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI FUJITA, Toshiyuki (Project Lecturer, Graduate School of Frontier Science, The University of Tokyo)
Partner PI Yi TANG (Associate Professor, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Nanyang Technological University)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to optimizing the design and performance of magnetic couplers, especially the core component and the control performance of a wireless power transfer system, for applications in electrified transportation and intelligent systems such as autonomous vehicles, personal mobility, robots, and drone through the integration of physics-informed machine learning with electromagnetic field and circuit theories. The collaboration will involve significant exchange of knowledge and personnel between Singapore and Japan. Graduate students will be dispatched for 1–6 month research visits to partner institutions, engaging in joint projects on AI and magnetic materials. The team will organize joint workshops and academic seminars, and researchers will also present findings at international conferences, ensuring the dissemination of results to the global academic community.

Project Title AI-Driven Climate Resilient Cooling: Robust Reinforcement Learning for Mixed-Mode Ventilation

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI MIYATA, Shohei (Project Lecturer, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo)
Partner PI Adrian CHONG (Associate Professor, Department of the Built Environment, National University of Singapore)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to develop Mixed Mode Ventilation (MMV) technology that leverages artificial intelligence to maximize the benefits of natural ventilation during air conditioning operation.
The Japanese team will build a simulation model that combines physical-based simulation and data-driven neural networks to achieve high accuracy and fast calculation speed for air conditioning equipment and indoor environments. Meanwhile, the Singapore team will provide an experimental environment and promote the development of reinforcement learning algorithms for MMV control, with a particular focus on domain adaptation.
By combining the strengths of the research teams from both countries, it is hoped that more comfortable, energy-efficient and scalable MMV control will be achieved. At the same time, by implementing close information exchange and experimental cooperation with ASEAN countries, where the increase in demand for air conditioning is becoming a urgent issue, it is hoped that MMV-related technology will be deployed in the ASEAN region.

Project Title Development of Large-scale Language and Multimodal Models for Dynamic and Sustainable Food Planning in East and Southeast Asia

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI YAMAKATA, Yoko (Professor, Information Technology Center, The University of Tokyo)
Partner PI Tat-Seng CHUA (Professor, School of Computing, National University of Singapore)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to develop a large-scale language model (LLM) and a large-scale multimodal model (LMM) that will help people understand the situation of food in real-time by analyzing all kinds of data related to food collected via the web in response to the food situation that is dynamically changing due to climate change. Specifically, the Japanese team will collect and analyze local news and social media related to food, as well as satellite image data, etc., while also developing a food management app that analyzes and visualizes the environmental impact of people's eating habits based on their meal records. The Singapore team will lead the construction of LLM and LMM, which specialize in food using the data provided by the Japanese team. Through joint research by the teams from both countries, it is expected that people will be able to redesign food production and distribution plans in East and Southeast Asia more flexibly and quickly.

Project Title Development of Resource-Efficient Foundation Models for Urban Heat Island Monitoring and Mitigation

Research FieldAI
Project DurationApril 2025 - March 2028
Singapore国旗マークSingapore
Japan-side PI YOKOYA, Naoto (Associate Professor, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo)
Partner PI Shijian LU (Associate Professor, College of Computing and Data Science, Nanyang Technological University)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to develop innovative resource-efficient foundation models for monitoring and mitigating the urban heat island phenomenon. Specifically, the Japanese team will integrate multi-source data including satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and meteorological data to produce high-resolution temperature pattern estimates and 3D semantic reconstruction models, while the Singapore team will develop visual question answering and visual grounding techniques to interpret geospatial data and generate actionable recommendations for urban planning. Through joint research between the two teams, the project aims to integrate resource-efficient AI technologies and establish a new framework for enhancing urban climate resilience. Furthermore, it seeks to foster the growth of new tools and technologies for smart city management and environmental monitoring, thereby contributing to the realization of sustainable urban environments.

Project Title Harnessing Fungal Bioengineering and Biomass Resources for Small-Molecule Therapeutic Innovation

Research FieldBioproduction
Project DurationOctober 2025 - September 2028
Indonesia国旗マークIndonesia
Japan-side PI TSUNEMATSU, Yuta (Associate Professor, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University)
Partner PI Arif NURKANTO (Principal Researcher, Research Center for Biosystematics and Evolution, Research Organization for Life Sciences and Environment, BRIN)
Abstract This project aims to integrate Japan’s advanced bioengineering-based natural product drug discovery technologies with Indonesia’s rich and diverse microbial resources to develop novel small-molecule lead compounds for infectious disease treatment. Japan brings a strong history in natural product-based therapeutics, while Indonesia offers a vast, untapped reservoir of microbial diversity. By combining these strengths, the project will enable rational design and scalable biosynthesis of drug candidates through pathway engineering and structure-guided modification. The research targets tuberculosis, MRSA infections, and amoebiasis—diseases that are prevalent in low- and middle-income countries and urgently require new treatments. Existing therapies are often limited by toxicity, resistance, or poor pharmacokinetics. To address these issues, the project will generate non-natural-type natural products with enhanced activity and selectivity, using filamentous fungi as heterologous hosts for expressing biosynthetic genes. For sustainable implementation, the project develops practical, low-cost production methods using underused biomass—such as banana stems, palm residues, and cassava pulp—locally available in Indonesia. These agricultural wastes serve as carbon sources in fermentation, supporting low-cost drug production while promoting environmental sustainability. In addition, reciprocal exchange programs will train young researchers from both countries, fostering long-term collaboration and innovation. By uniting advanced biosynthesis, microbial biodiversity, and biomass-based production strategies, this project contributes to global health and provides a model of international cooperation aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Project Title Ocean Positive Bioproduction of High-Value Chemicals from High-Salinity Waste Biomass by Halophilic Microbial Cell Factories

Research FieldBioproduction
Project DurationOctober 2025 - September 2028
Indonesia国旗マークIndonesia
Japan-side PI NAKAYAMA, Hideki (Professor, Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Nagasaki University)
Partner PI Fahrurrozi (Director, Research Center for Freshwater Aquaculture, Research Organization for Agriculture and Food, BRIN)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to develop platform technologies that efficiently upcycle blue carbon for the ocean-positive production of high-value chemicals, using high-salinity seaweed residues, which are discarded in large quantities in Asia, as feedstocks. Specifically, the Japan team will establish a cell factory using the halophilic bacterium Halomonas elongata, which has been shown to produce ectoine (Ect) and polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB).
The Indonesia team will select strains of the genus Halomonas with high production capabilities of Ect and PHB from Indonesia's own halophilic bacterial resources. Then, the research results from the Japan team will be applied to the selected Halomonas sp. strain, which will serve as a platform for developing Halomonas cell factories in Indonesia.
The outcomes of this joint research will contribute to the achievement of SDGs 12 and 14.

Project Title Establishment of an Organoid Panel Reflecting Liver Cancer Subtypes in Asia

Research FieldBioproduction
Project DurationOctober 2025 - September 2028
Indonesia国旗マークIndonesia
Japan-side PI HIPPO, Yoshitaka (Director, Research Institute, Chiba Cancer Center)
Partner PI Riris Istighfari JENIE (Associate Professor, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada)
Abstract This project aims to establish Asia's first drug discovery platform through the creation of an organoid panel of liver cancer with genetic mutations unique to the Asian region.
Specifically, the Japanese side will first establish a large number of organoids derived from normal mouse cells and patient tumors to create a subtype-specific liver cancer organoid panel, and then screen a compound library to identify candidate compounds that exhibit subtype-specific drug efficacy. Meanwhile, the Indonesian side will simultaneously verify the versatility of the candidate compounds using human liver cancer cell lines and synthesize derivatives, aiming to identify highly effective compounds.
By integrating these results, we will demonstrate the drug discovery utility of the Asian liver cancer organoid panel. Ultimately, we anticipate the development of a comprehensive drug discovery platform for cancer, with potential applications to other cancer types.

Project Title Development of Genetically Engineered Plants to address Environmental Pollution through Production of Transporter Proteins with Improved Metal Transport Properties

Research FieldBioproduction
Project DurationOctober 2025 - September 2028
Indonesia国旗マークIndonesia
Japan-side PI FUJIWARA, Toru (Professor, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo)
Partner PI Pratiwi PRANANINGRUM (Researcher, Research Center for Genetic Engineering, BRIN)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to modify the uptake and capacity of cadmium in rice and Jatropha. The Japanese team will focus on the molecular analysis and engineering of the NRAMP5 transporter in rice to suppress/enhance Cd uptake in Indonesian elite cultivar of rice. The Indonesian team works on Jatropha and by integrating the strengths of both research teams—crop-based phytoremediation (Japan) and synthetic biology-enhanced hyperaccumulators and bioproduction platforms (Indonesia)—this collaboration aims to deliver innovative, scalable, and sustainable solutions for environmental restoration of heavy metal-contaminated sites.

Project Title Japan-Indonesia Cryo-EM Initiative for Sustainable Bioproduction: Study of Key Enzymes and Transporters in Biodegradable Polymer Biosynthesis and Pollutant Bioremediation

Research FieldBioproduction
Project DurationOctober 2025 - September 2028
Indonesia国旗マークIndonesia
Japan-side PI YOSHIDA, Shosuke (Professor, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology)
Partner PI Yudhi NUGRAHA (Head of Scientific Committee of Cryo-EM Lab BRIN, Eijkman Research Center for Molecular Biology, BRIN)
Abstract Aiming to develop microbial-based bioproduction and pollutant recovery technologies, this project seeks to elucidate the structural basis of key enzymes and transporters involved in these processes using cryo-electron microscopy (Cryo-EM), while expanding the range of Cryo-EM targets through the application of fusion tag technology. On the Japanese side, the Environmental Microbiology Laboratory, specializing in functional analysis of the enzymes, and the Structural Life Science Laboratory, specializing in structural analysis, will collaborate to lead protein expression and purification, improvement of 3D reconstruction methods, and structure determination and refinement. Meanwhile, the BRIN team will be responsible for operating state-of-the-art Cryo-EM instruments, conducting initial screening, and collecting data. Through this collaborative effort, we aim to optimize the Cryo-EM workflow, create new environment-related technologies based on structural biology, foster the next generation of researchers, and strengthen the international collaborative research framework.

Project Title Engineering Materials for Advanced Nitride Semiconductor HEMT Devices through Combined Theoretical Modeling and Experimental Fabrication

Research FieldSemiconductor
Project DurationOctober 2025 - March 2029
Vietnam国旗マークVietnam
Japan-side PI ARAKI, Tsutomu (Professor, College of Science and Engineering, Ritsumeikan University)
Partner PI NGUYEN Ngoc Linh (Lecturer, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Phenikaa University)
Abstract This research aims to advance high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) technology based on wide bandgap nitride semiconductors and to create highly sensitive biosensors utilizing HEMT materials.
Specifically, the Japanese team will focus on improving semiconductor material quality, developing device processes, and applying large-area wafers. The Vietnamese team will utilize advanced computational methods and process technologies to enhance electron mobility, reduce defect density, and improve efficiency.
Through joint research by teams from both countries, we aim to establish foundational applications for next-generation communication infrastructure, automotive power electronics, wireless power transmission, biomedical sensing, and energy-efficient power electronics. Additionally, we seek to strengthen academic and industrial collaboration between Japan and Vietnam based on nitride semiconductor device technology and build long-term cooperative relationships.

Project Title Research on CFET Devices with Silicon Thin Film Transistors

Research FieldSemiconductor
Project DurationOctober 2025 - March 2029
Vietnam国旗マークVietnam
Japan-side PI KUROKI, Shin-Ichiro (Professor, Research Institute for Semiconductor Engineering, Hiroshima University)
Partner PI NGUYEN Thi Thuy (Associate Professor, Faculty of Physics, Hanoi National University of Education)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to realize CFET (Complementary Field-Effect Transistor） devices with high-mobility silicon thin film transistors (TFTs) by device miniaturization and three-dimensional structures.
Specifically, Japanese team will conduct research on high performance TFTs with miniaturization and three-dimensional stacked structure, and Vietnamese team will conduct research on laser-crystallized polycrystalline silicon films with high crystallinity control.
Through collaborative research activities, the leading-edge technologies on semiconductor will be developed, young researchers will learn the designing of devices and circuits, fabrication processes and measurement methods on semiconductor technologies, and finally fundamental technologies on TFT-CFETs and related technologies will be established.

Project Title Total Development of Next-generation Semiconductor Thin-film Technologies for Energy and Sensing Devices

Research FieldSemiconductor
Project DurationOctober 2025 - March 2029
Vietnam国旗マークVietnam
Japan-side PI NAKAMURA, Masakazu (Professor, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology)
Partner PI NGUYEN Duy Thien (Director of Center for Materials Science, Faculty of Physics, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi)
Abstract This collaborative research aims to create novel thin-film semiconductor devices for energy and sensing applications by combining the diverse material knowledge and design/analysis methodologies possessed by all the team members across the material, device, and chip levels.
Specifically, the Japanese team will lead the development of low-cost, flexible thermoelectric modules, the creation of flexible photovoltaic-thermoelectric hybrid modules, and the development of thin-film-transistor-type chemical sensors to integrate them into microfluidic channels. The Vietnamese team will lead the development of durable perovskite solar cells and microfluidic chemical sensing chips.
Through this joint research, we aim to create novel thin-film semiconductor devices and establish a comprehensive, sustainable development framework that spans from materials development to semiconductor design.

Project Title Implementation of Secure AI System-on-Chip based on Multi-core RISC-V CPU and AI Accelerator for AI-IoMT Devices and Applications

Research FieldSemiconductor
Project DurationOctober 2025 - March 2029
Vietnam国旗マークVietnam
Japan-side PI PHAM, Cong-Kha (Professor, Department of Computer and Network Engineering, The University of Electro-Communications)
Partner PI LE Duc Hung (Associate Professor, Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunications, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City)
Abstract This research aims to develop a secure System-on-Chip (SoC) with a multi-core RISC-V (Reduced Instruction Set Computer, Fifth Edition) CPU and provide related applications. This will be achieved through the design and implementation of an SoC equipped with AI and advanced cryptographic accelerators for secure edge devices.
Specifically, the Japanese team will lead the integrated circuit (IC) design and manufacturing of the SoC with an embedded AI system. The Vietnamese team will collaborate on the IC design with the Japanese team and will be responsible for testing and verification as well as research and development of application software that uses the IC.
Through this joint research between the two teams, a series of R&D processes, from the design and implementation to the evaluation of the SoC will be carried out. Upon the project's completion, both teams aim to produce an SoC prototype and cultivate young researchers with a deep understanding of the entire semiconductor design and development process.

Project Title Research on Wide-bandgap Semiconductor Materials and Devices for Energy-management Chips in High-performance Power Systems

Research FieldSemiconductor
Project DurationOctober 2025 - March 2029
Vietnam国旗マークVietnam
Japan-side PI LE, Duc Anh (Associate Professor, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo)
Partner PI DUONG Thanh Tung (Associate Professor, School of Material Science and Engineering, Hanoi University of Science and Technology)
Abstract This study aims to realize next-generation power and high-performance devices by advancing the development of gallium nitride (GaN), β-gallium oxide (β-Ga₂O₃), strontium titanate (SrTiO₃), and their heterostructures. Through close collaboration between the Japanese and Vietnamese teams, cutting-edge crystal growth techniques such as molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) will be employed to improve material quality, while versatile techniques such as sputtering will be utilized to promote cost reduction. Furthermore, by developing high-voltage diodes, high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs), and flexible devices, the research will explore applications in energy-saving direct current–direct current (DC–DC) converters and high-performance electronic devices. Through this joint research, the two teams aim to achieve both material innovation and human resource development in next-generation electronics.