The JST Fusion Oriented Research for Disruptive Science and Technology (The JST FOREST) Program is an innovative program that provides comprehensive support to a variety of pre- and post-independent researchers who are boldly taking on challenges based on free, innovative, and integrative concepts that are not bound by existing frameworks or intimidated by fear of taking risks, while ensuring the mobility of researchers, stable research funding for up to 10 years, and an environment in which researchers can devote themselves to their research. The program aims to maximize the motivation and research time of superlative researchers, and promote fusion oriented research that will create seeds for disruptive innovation.

This panel covers social medicine, forensic medicine, nursing, rehabilitation science, sports science, physical education, health science, nutrition, human medical engineering and related fields. One of the major issues in this field is that, as society's birthrate declines and the population ages, it is becoming increasingly important to take approaches from the viewpoint of health including preventative medicine and pre-disease treatment, in addition to the traditional approach from the disease side, in order to realize a healthy and longevity society. Rather than viewing health and illness as a dichotomy, we should view them as a continuum, and by approaching the issue from both the health and illness sides, the participation and empowerment of individuals in health promotion will be further promoted. This, in turn, will lead to higher individual labor productivity and contribute to the sustainability of society. Being aware of these major issues, we invite free and bold research proposals .

The JST FOREST Program targets innovative and integrative research by a diverse range of young researchers, and will continue to support the promotion of fusion project research through mentoring, networking, and improvement of the research environment after the project is adopted. We hope to contribute to your career development.