This panel supports young researchers who pioneer and lead essential, future-oriented research across a broad range of fundamental biological sciences. Within the overall framework of this program for Emergent Research Support, this panel is formally designated to cover basic biology disciplines including genome biology, developmental biology, evolutionary biology, ecology and environmental science, and physical anthropology. However, as fundamental biology continues to evolve beyond conventional disciplinary boundaries, we welcome applications regardless of specific field designation. In particular, we strongly encourage proposals from researchers who incisively tackle fundamental questions in basic biology from fresh and original perspectives.

Fundamental scientific research that seeks to unravel the mechanisms of the natural world expands the intellectual foundations of humanity and serves as a vital force in enriching society. The strong curiosity, deep spirit of inquiry, and flexible, innovative thinking of young researchers are especially powerful drivers of outstanding research. Providing systematic and sustained support for the ambitious and challenging endeavors of excellent young researchers is indispensable to strengthening the backbone of Japanese science. For young researchers to transform their free and original ideas into well-defined research themes and achieve fruitful outcomes, they need an environment where they can devote themselves fully to research, together with sufficient time to pursue their work with focus and depth. We hope that the relatively long-term support offered by this program, along with active discussions both within and beyond the panel, will encourage each researcher’s bold challenges and lead to their growth and breakthrough achievements. Through the support provided by this initiative, the Program Officer (PO), Advisors (ADs), and all members of the Department of Disruptive Research at JST will work together with dedication to further enhance Japan’s fundamental scientific strength. We sincerely look forward to receiving research proposals from young researchers that are filled with motivation, creativity, and intellectual excitement, as well as to engaging in open and productive discussions with them.