JST’s FOREST Program has conducted five open competitions so far, and a wide variety of researchers have been selected amid an extremely high competition rate of approximately 10%. Although each panel field in the program is defined based on the classification of Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research, research based on new methods and concepts that do not fit within the traditional classical classification has emerged and matured in biology and many other research fields. We also feel that the widespread use of AI is forcing us to change our approach to research and our way of thinking. We are entering an era in which the way we interact with AI is also important in terms of measurement and analysis techniques in biology.

I myself started a small project and have continued to work on it, believing that by transcending conventional disciplinary frameworks, the true nature of living organisms might be revealed. I am happy that my small project is gradually resonating with those around me and that my collaborators are growing in number both in Japan and abroad regardless of ages and nationalities. This program is unique in that it does not pursue success alone. It is my hope that researchers will value their small ideas and develop original research over a long period of time.

This panel covers broad disciplines from atoms and molecules to cells. Therefore, we have sought the cooperation of experienced and unique advisors who have been active in a variety of research subjects and methods to assist us with the screening and management of this panel. We hope that the free and open interaction between the advisors and the researchers selected for this panel will lead to further advancement in the research of both parties. I would like to create a panel where members can fully devote themselves to what they love to do in cooperation with JST. We look forward to receiving your application, which was created with all of your efforts.