The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) co-organised the second JST-EMBO Matchmaking Workshop in life science, which was hosted by EMBO at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Heidelberg, Germany, from February 26^th to 28^th. This event followed the inaugural workshop held in March 2024 at the Miraikan in Tokyo, Japan and aimed to further strengthen connections between JST and EMBO researchers to enhance the research network and foster new collaborations in life sciences between Japan and Europe.

A total of 18 participants from Japan attended, including nine research representatives supported by JST’s FOREST and PRESTO programs. Among them were Program Officer (PO) for FOREST and Associate Member of EMBO Professor Yukiko Goda (Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology), as well as Associate Professor Momoko Ikeuchi (Nara Institute of Science and Technology), a FOREST Principal Investigator (PI) selected for the EMBO Young Investigator Programme in 2024. Additionally, seven postdoctoral researchers and students from select JST funded research projects attended the workshop. On the European side, approximately 30 researchers and postdoctoral fellows from the EMBO network contributed to the discussions, bringing the total number of participants to nearly 90.

The workshop opened with remarks from JST Vice President Shigeo Morimoto and EMBO Director Fiona Watt, both of whom emphasized the importance of strengthening research networks between Japan and Europe and promoting excellence in life science. The event featured 10 sessions covering a diverse range of topics, from stem cells to the biological impact of ageing. Researchers from both regions presented their latest findings, leading to lively discussions and exchanges of ideas. Additionally, a dedicated networking session was held for participants to discuss potential future collaborations, with the aim of fostering new research partnerships.

A special poster session was also organised for postdoctoral researchers and students. This session included a "poster clinic," led by Bernd Pulverer, the editor-in-chief of EMBO Reports, along with other experts, who offered practical advice on how to effectively present research posters.

Building on the positive outcomes of the first two workshops, JST and EMBO are now planning to provide the third matchmaking opportunity in 2026.

[Related information: EMBO programs available to JST researchers in FY2025]

* Please note that affiliation with select JST programs is a requirement for eligibility.

As part of the collaborative activities between JST and EMBO, researchers currently supported by select JST programs can apply to EMBO's Young Investigator Programme (YIP), a career development program for young researchers, and the Scientific Exchange Grants (SEG). For more information, please see the EMBO website.

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EMBO’s post on the 2^nd JST-EMBO Matchmaking Workshop