Field eligible for the award : Bioscience and Medical Science

Discovery of interleukin-6 andits application in treating diseases

Fields for the 2012 (28th) Japan Prize
The fields eligible for the 2012 (28th) Japan Prizes are "Environment, Energy and Infrastructure" and"Healthcare and Medical Technology." The Foundation called for over 13,000 official nominators tonominate the candidates through the web by JPNS(Japan Prize Nomination System). The nominatedcandidates are now under rigorous evaluation by the Japan Prize Selection Committee. The results will beannounced in January 2012. The presentation ceremony will take place in Tokyo in April 2012.

Akasaka Twin Tower East, 13th Floor, 2-17-22
Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0052, JAPANTel : +81-3-5545-0551 Fax : +81-3-5545-0554
www.japanprize.jp

No. 46

July, 2011

Field eligible for the award : Information and Communications

Development of the operating system, UNIXArea of Studies I: mathematics, physics, chemistry and engineering
Fields eligible for the award: Environment, Energy and Infrastructure
Background and rationale:
In recent years, the increase in resource and energy consumption and the destruction of the natural environment caused
by various human activities have reached a level that is no longer ignorable, prompting negotiations for environmental
protection measures on a global scale.
A strong need has thus been reaffirmed for innovation in fundamental technologies that profoundly influences theglobal environment. They include technologies for energy production and utilization, material production, water
resource management, urban development, physical distribution and transportation. Particular importance lies in the
promotion of energy saving across civil life and industry, exploitation of alternative energy resources and new
production technology under resource and environmental constrains. Moreover, scientific advancement and innovationin disaster mitigation and safety measures is another important target for the development of the social infrastructure.

Achievement eligible:
The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of "Environment, Energy, and Infrastructure" is awarded to individuals who havemade significant contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and technological breakthroughs increation, innovation and propagation of technologies that are related to environmental protection, energy,
environmentally benign production and social infrastructure, thereby improving and protecting the global environment.

2011 (27th) Japan Prize was awarded to four
doctors from Japan and the United States- The presentation of the prize took placein both Japan and the United States -“Information and Communications” field“Bioscience and Medical Science” field

Area of Studies II: biology, agriculture and medical science
Fields eligible for the award: Healthcare and Medical Technology

Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto

Dr. Toshio Hirano

Born: May 7, 1939
Emeritus Professor, Osaka University

Born: April 17, 1947
Professor, Osaka University

Message from the laureate

Message from the laureate

In the early 1970s, a molecule that induces

With a ﬁrm belief in the importance of attaining

antibody production by B lymphocytes was

the true nature of things, I have been challenging

discovered and later named as IL-6. We werethe confronting diﬃculties one by one as if I wasvery fortunate that this newly discovered

climbing up mountains and cliﬀs to reach themolecule plays major roles in the pathogenesis ofextreme summit.

many diseases.

Through these fundamental research eﬀorts,

Based on our successive fundamental research

we were blessed with the discovery of IL-6 whichon the structures of IL-6 molecule and its

opened up the way for the development of

receptors, and the signal transducing function, an

therapeutic medication for diseases likeeﬀective antibody drug for inﬂammatory diseases

rheumatoid arthritis.

such as rheumatoid arthritis was developed for

It is something I could never have imagined

the ﬁrst time in Japan. Today the drug has been

when I graduated from the medical department

approved in over 90 countries and is widely usedof Osaka University 39 years ago. Today, I amaround the globe.

determined as ever to keep contributing to theIt has been my belief that true medical
research seeking for essence will eventually yieldsociety through medical research and developing
the next generation researchers.

improvements in diseases diagnosis andI believe that Japan, for the sake of its future,

treatments, regardless of whether it seems

must contribute to the peace and prosperity of

beneﬁcial or not. It has been said that our

mankind by acknowledging the importance of

research on IL-6 will abolish the need for

fundamental science, and engaging in scientiﬁcwheelchairs among rheumatoid arthritis patientsand technological development.

in 10 years, and I am absolutely delighted that

I sincerely hope that this prize will reaﬃrm theour research has led to helping many people

importance of fundamental scientiﬁc research andsuﬀering from diseases.

set a vision and dream for the young people.

Background and rationale:
Over the past few decades, dramatic progress has been made in diagnostic accuracy of diseases and physical functions.
This has been due to the advancements of science and technology in the field of diagnostic imaging instrument,
information based medical technology, and moreover, the medical diagnostic technology and biochemical-based diagnosis
methods based upon the study of genetics.
In addition to the advancements in diagnosis technology, innovations in medical treatment technique including minimallyinvasive surgery and radiation therapy have improved the curability rate of many diseases, thereby significantly
contributing to the well-being of people. Furthermore, even greater developments are being anticipated in the field of
medicine, such as diagnostic technology for early detection of diseases, epoch-making drug discovery and regenerative
medicine.
With a rapidly aging population, maintaining and improving health and disease prevention has become increasingly
important for the preservation of social vitality. As a result, there are high expectations for further development andadvancement of the science and technology in this field.

Achievement eligible:
The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of "Healthcare and Medical Technology" is awarded to individuals who have madesignificant contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and technological breakthroughs in creating andpromoting new technologies for medical diagnosis and treatment, and those contributing to maintenance and furtheranceof our health and disease prevention.

Schedule (2013-2015)
The fields eligible for the Japan Prize (2013 to 2015) have been decided for the two research areas, respectively.
These fields rotate every three years, basically.
Every year the Fields Selection Committee announces the fields eligible for the next three years.
Areas of Physics, Chemistry and EngineeringYear

Fields Eligible

Areas of Life Science, Agriculture and Medicine
Year

Fields Eligible

2013

Materials, Production

2013

Biological Production, Biological Environment

2014Electronics, Information, Communication

2014Life Science

2015

Resources, Energy, Social Infrastructure

2015

Medical Science, Medicinal Science

Dr. Dennis M. Ritchie

Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Emeritus,
Bell LabsUSA

Dr. Ken L. Thompson
Distinguished Engineer,
Google Inc.

USA

Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto
Emeritus Professor,
Osaka University

Japan

Dr. Toshio Hirano
Professor,
Osaka University

Japan

Dr. Dennis M. Ritchie

Dr. Ken L. Thompson

Born: September 9, 1941
Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Emeritus,
Bell Labs

Born: February 4, 1943
Distinguished Engineer, Google Inc.

Message from the laureate

Message from the laureate

In accepting this prestigious award I would like to

It is a great honor to receive the Japan Prize

thank the executives of the Japan Prize Foundation -the world's most important award for science andPresident Ito, Chairman Yoshikawa, and all thetechnology impact.

support staﬀ. I would also like to thank my family

We would like to express our deepest sympathies for the people who suffered from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
The Japan Prize Foundation presents the Japan Prize award for those whose outstanding achievements in science andtechnology are recognized as having advanced the frontiers of knowledge and served the cause of peace and prosperity for mankind.
The 2011 Japan Prize in the field of “Information and Communications” was awarded to Dr. Dennis Ritchie and Dr. Ken
Thompson for developing the UNIX operating system, and in the field of “Bioscience and Medical Science”, it was awarded toDr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto and Dr. Toshio Hirano for their discovery of Interleukin-6 and its application in treating diseases.
After announcing the Laureates for 2011 on January 25 , we were at the height of preparation for the Japan Prize Presentation
Ceremony and the Banquet scheduled on April 20 in Tokyo, when the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami disaster of March 11 stuck.
After considering various circumstances, we reached a conclusion that the presentation ceremony, the banquet and all of therelated events had to be canceled. However, the thoughtful support of the people and organizations concerned made it possible
for us to honor the laureates and award the Japan Prize at various locations.

for their love and their unwavering support.
I especially extend thanks to Ken Thompson,
my colleague and respected friend, with whom I
am sharing this award and who is probably moredeserving for his contributions than I.
And I would like to recognize the role of thecompany I worked for over more than forty
years: Bell Labs.
Bell Labs has moved about in structure andlocation within its several parent corporations.
Through all of this, the research part of Bell Labs
remained amazingly stable. The work changed
along with technologies, and in fact theinteresting areas for research changed as well.
Fortunately, software work remained vital, andthat is one reason my own job lasted for so long.

The Japan Prize is awarded to scientists throughout the world who havebeen credited with original and outstanding achievements and have mademajor contributions to the advancement of science and technology, thereby
manifestly furthering the cause of peace and the prosperity of mankind.

While the prize encompasses all categories of science and technology, twofields of study are designated for the prize each year in consideration ofdevelopments in science and technology.
Each Japan Prize laureate receives a certificate of merit and a prize medal. A
cash award of 50 million yen is also made for each prize field.

One constant over my career has been thewonderful atmosphere provided by my colleagues.
The fact is that many of the fresh ideas in Unix
were provided by others working with us.

When talking about impact, it is beﬁtting thatthe computer ﬁeld should be included. Perhaps noother ﬁeld of science has had a greater impact onhuman activity.
I cannot help but have two contradictory
feelings about this award. First is the elation of
being elevated to the level of past recipients. And
then after looking at those recipients, a feelingthat I do not measure up.
I am honored to accept the Japan Prize, with
Dennis Ritchie, in the ﬁelds of Information andCommunications. I am humbled to join the
distinguished list of other recipients.

Field eligible for the award : Bioscience and Medical Science

Discovery of interleukin-6 andits application in treating diseases

Fields for the 2012 (28th) Japan Prize
The fields eligible for the 2012 (28th) Japan Prizes are "Environment, Energy and Infrastructure" and"Healthcare and Medical Technology." The Foundation called for over 13,000 official nominators tonominate the candidates through the web by JPNS(Japan Prize Nomination System). The nominatedcandidates are now under rigorous evaluation by the Japan Prize Selection Committee. The results will beannounced in January 2012. The presentation ceremony will take place in Tokyo in April 2012.

Akasaka Twin Tower East, 13th Floor, 2-17-22
Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0052, JAPANTel : +81-3-5545-0551 Fax : +81-3-5545-0554
www.japanprize.jp

No. 46

July, 2011

Field eligible for the award : Information and Communications

Development of the operating system, UNIXArea of Studies I: mathematics, physics, chemistry and engineering
Fields eligible for the award: Environment, Energy and Infrastructure
Background and rationale:
In recent years, the increase in resource and energy consumption and the destruction of the natural environment caused
by various human activities have reached a level that is no longer ignorable, prompting negotiations for environmental
protection measures on a global scale.
A strong need has thus been reaffirmed for innovation in fundamental technologies that profoundly influences theglobal environment. They include technologies for energy production and utilization, material production, water
resource management, urban development, physical distribution and transportation. Particular importance lies in the
promotion of energy saving across civil life and industry, exploitation of alternative energy resources and new
production technology under resource and environmental constrains. Moreover, scientific advancement and innovationin disaster mitigation and safety measures is another important target for the development of the social infrastructure.

Achievement eligible:
The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of "Environment, Energy, and Infrastructure" is awarded to individuals who havemade significant contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and technological breakthroughs increation, innovation and propagation of technologies that are related to environmental protection, energy,
environmentally benign production and social infrastructure, thereby improving and protecting the global environment.

2011 (27th) Japan Prize was awarded to four
doctors from Japan and the United States- The presentation of the prize took placein both Japan and the United States -“Information and Communications” field“Bioscience and Medical Science” field

Area of Studies II: biology, agriculture and medical science
Fields eligible for the award: Healthcare and Medical Technology

Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto

Dr. Toshio Hirano

Born: May 7, 1939
Emeritus Professor, Osaka University

Born: April 17, 1947
Professor, Osaka University

Message from the laureate

Message from the laureate

In the early 1970s, a molecule that induces

With a ﬁrm belief in the importance of attaining

antibody production by B lymphocytes was

the true nature of things, I have been challenging

discovered and later named as IL-6. We werethe confronting diﬃculties one by one as if I wasvery fortunate that this newly discovered

climbing up mountains and cliﬀs to reach themolecule plays major roles in the pathogenesis ofextreme summit.

many diseases.

Through these fundamental research eﬀorts,

Based on our successive fundamental research

we were blessed with the discovery of IL-6 whichon the structures of IL-6 molecule and its

opened up the way for the development of

receptors, and the signal transducing function, an

therapeutic medication for diseases likeeﬀective antibody drug for inﬂammatory diseases

rheumatoid arthritis.

such as rheumatoid arthritis was developed for

It is something I could never have imagined

the ﬁrst time in Japan. Today the drug has been

when I graduated from the medical department

approved in over 90 countries and is widely usedof Osaka University 39 years ago. Today, I amaround the globe.

determined as ever to keep contributing to theIt has been my belief that true medical
research seeking for essence will eventually yieldsociety through medical research and developing
the next generation researchers.

improvements in diseases diagnosis andI believe that Japan, for the sake of its future,

treatments, regardless of whether it seems

must contribute to the peace and prosperity of

beneﬁcial or not. It has been said that our

mankind by acknowledging the importance of

research on IL-6 will abolish the need for

fundamental science, and engaging in scientiﬁcwheelchairs among rheumatoid arthritis patientsand technological development.

in 10 years, and I am absolutely delighted that

I sincerely hope that this prize will reaﬃrm theour research has led to helping many people

importance of fundamental scientiﬁc research andsuﬀering from diseases.

set a vision and dream for the young people.

Background and rationale:
Over the past few decades, dramatic progress has been made in diagnostic accuracy of diseases and physical functions.
This has been due to the advancements of science and technology in the field of diagnostic imaging instrument,
information based medical technology, and moreover, the medical diagnostic technology and biochemical-based diagnosis
methods based upon the study of genetics.
In addition to the advancements in diagnosis technology, innovations in medical treatment technique including minimallyinvasive surgery and radiation therapy have improved the curability rate of many diseases, thereby significantly
contributing to the well-being of people. Furthermore, even greater developments are being anticipated in the field of
medicine, such as diagnostic technology for early detection of diseases, epoch-making drug discovery and regenerative
medicine.
With a rapidly aging population, maintaining and improving health and disease prevention has become increasingly
important for the preservation of social vitality. As a result, there are high expectations for further development andadvancement of the science and technology in this field.

Achievement eligible:
The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of "Healthcare and Medical Technology" is awarded to individuals who have madesignificant contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and technological breakthroughs in creating andpromoting new technologies for medical diagnosis and treatment, and those contributing to maintenance and furtheranceof our health and disease prevention.

Schedule (2013-2015)
The fields eligible for the Japan Prize (2013 to 2015) have been decided for the two research areas, respectively.
These fields rotate every three years, basically.
Every year the Fields Selection Committee announces the fields eligible for the next three years.
Areas of Physics, Chemistry and EngineeringYear

Fields Eligible

Areas of Life Science, Agriculture and Medicine
Year

Fields Eligible

2013

Materials, Production

2013

Biological Production, Biological Environment

2014Electronics, Information, Communication

2014Life Science

2015

Resources, Energy, Social Infrastructure

2015

Medical Science, Medicinal Science

Dr. Dennis M. Ritchie

Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Emeritus,
Bell LabsUSA

Dr. Ken L. Thompson
Distinguished Engineer,
Google Inc.

USA

Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto
Emeritus Professor,
Osaka University

Japan

Dr. Toshio Hirano
Professor,
Osaka University

Japan

Dr. Dennis M. Ritchie

Dr. Ken L. Thompson

Born: September 9, 1941
Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Emeritus,
Bell Labs

Born: February 4, 1943
Distinguished Engineer, Google Inc.

Message from the laureate

Message from the laureate

In accepting this prestigious award I would like to

It is a great honor to receive the Japan Prize

thank the executives of the Japan Prize Foundation -the world's most important award for science andPresident Ito, Chairman Yoshikawa, and all thetechnology impact.

support staﬀ. I would also like to thank my family

We would like to express our deepest sympathies for the people who suffered from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
The Japan Prize Foundation presents the Japan Prize award for those whose outstanding achievements in science andtechnology are recognized as having advanced the frontiers of knowledge and served the cause of peace and prosperity for mankind.
The 2011 Japan Prize in the field of “Information and Communications” was awarded to Dr. Dennis Ritchie and Dr. Ken
Thompson for developing the UNIX operating system, and in the field of “Bioscience and Medical Science”, it was awarded toDr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto and Dr. Toshio Hirano for their discovery of Interleukin-6 and its application in treating diseases.
After announcing the Laureates for 2011 on January 25 , we were at the height of preparation for the Japan Prize Presentation
Ceremony and the Banquet scheduled on April 20 in Tokyo, when the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami disaster of March 11 stuck.
After considering various circumstances, we reached a conclusion that the presentation ceremony, the banquet and all of therelated events had to be canceled. However, the thoughtful support of the people and organizations concerned made it possible
for us to honor the laureates and award the Japan Prize at various locations.

for their love and their unwavering support.
I especially extend thanks to Ken Thompson,
my colleague and respected friend, with whom I
am sharing this award and who is probably moredeserving for his contributions than I.
And I would like to recognize the role of thecompany I worked for over more than forty
years: Bell Labs.
Bell Labs has moved about in structure andlocation within its several parent corporations.
Through all of this, the research part of Bell Labs
remained amazingly stable. The work changed
along with technologies, and in fact theinteresting areas for research changed as well.
Fortunately, software work remained vital, andthat is one reason my own job lasted for so long.

The Japan Prize is awarded to scientists throughout the world who havebeen credited with original and outstanding achievements and have mademajor contributions to the advancement of science and technology, thereby
manifestly furthering the cause of peace and the prosperity of mankind.

While the prize encompasses all categories of science and technology, twofields of study are designated for the prize each year in consideration ofdevelopments in science and technology.
Each Japan Prize laureate receives a certificate of merit and a prize medal. A
cash award of 50 million yen is also made for each prize field.

One constant over my career has been thewonderful atmosphere provided by my colleagues.
The fact is that many of the fresh ideas in Unix
were provided by others working with us.

When talking about impact, it is beﬁtting thatthe computer ﬁeld should be included. Perhaps noother ﬁeld of science has had a greater impact onhuman activity.
I cannot help but have two contradictory
feelings about this award. First is the elation of
being elevated to the level of past recipients. And
then after looking at those recipients, a feelingthat I do not measure up.
I am honored to accept the Japan Prize, with
Dennis Ritchie, in the ﬁelds of Information andCommunications. I am humbled to join the
distinguished list of other recipients.

Field eligible for the award : Bioscience and Medical Science

Discovery of interleukin-6 andits application in treating diseases

Fields for the 2012 (28th) Japan Prize
The fields eligible for the 2012 (28th) Japan Prizes are "Environment, Energy and Infrastructure" and"Healthcare and Medical Technology." The Foundation called for over 13,000 official nominators tonominate the candidates through the web by JPNS(Japan Prize Nomination System). The nominatedcandidates are now under rigorous evaluation by the Japan Prize Selection Committee. The results will beannounced in January 2012. The presentation ceremony will take place in Tokyo in April 2012.

Akasaka Twin Tower East, 13th Floor, 2-17-22
Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0052, JAPANTel : +81-3-5545-0551 Fax : +81-3-5545-0554
www.japanprize.jp

No. 46

July, 2011

Field eligible for the award : Information and Communications

Development of the operating system, UNIXArea of Studies I: mathematics, physics, chemistry and engineering
Fields eligible for the award: Environment, Energy and Infrastructure
Background and rationale:
In recent years, the increase in resource and energy consumption and the destruction of the natural environment caused
by various human activities have reached a level that is no longer ignorable, prompting negotiations for environmental
protection measures on a global scale.
A strong need has thus been reaffirmed for innovation in fundamental technologies that profoundly influences theglobal environment. They include technologies for energy production and utilization, material production, water
resource management, urban development, physical distribution and transportation. Particular importance lies in the
promotion of energy saving across civil life and industry, exploitation of alternative energy resources and new
production technology under resource and environmental constrains. Moreover, scientific advancement and innovationin disaster mitigation and safety measures is another important target for the development of the social infrastructure.

Achievement eligible:
The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of "Environment, Energy, and Infrastructure" is awarded to individuals who havemade significant contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and technological breakthroughs increation, innovation and propagation of technologies that are related to environmental protection, energy,
environmentally benign production and social infrastructure, thereby improving and protecting the global environment.

2011 (27th) Japan Prize was awarded to four
doctors from Japan and the United States- The presentation of the prize took placein both Japan and the United States -“Information and Communications” field“Bioscience and Medical Science” field

Area of Studies II: biology, agriculture and medical science
Fields eligible for the award: Healthcare and Medical Technology

Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto

Dr. Toshio Hirano

Born: May 7, 1939
Emeritus Professor, Osaka University

Born: April 17, 1947
Professor, Osaka University

Message from the laureate

Message from the laureate

In the early 1970s, a molecule that induces

With a ﬁrm belief in the importance of attaining

antibody production by B lymphocytes was

the true nature of things, I have been challenging

discovered and later named as IL-6. We werethe confronting diﬃculties one by one as if I wasvery fortunate that this newly discovered

climbing up mountains and cliﬀs to reach themolecule plays major roles in the pathogenesis ofextreme summit.

many diseases.

Through these fundamental research eﬀorts,

Based on our successive fundamental research

we were blessed with the discovery of IL-6 whichon the structures of IL-6 molecule and its

opened up the way for the development of

receptors, and the signal transducing function, an

therapeutic medication for diseases likeeﬀective antibody drug for inﬂammatory diseases

rheumatoid arthritis.

such as rheumatoid arthritis was developed for

It is something I could never have imagined

the ﬁrst time in Japan. Today the drug has been

when I graduated from the medical department

approved in over 90 countries and is widely usedof Osaka University 39 years ago. Today, I amaround the globe.

determined as ever to keep contributing to theIt has been my belief that true medical
research seeking for essence will eventually yieldsociety through medical research and developing
the next generation researchers.

improvements in diseases diagnosis andI believe that Japan, for the sake of its future,

treatments, regardless of whether it seems

must contribute to the peace and prosperity of

beneﬁcial or not. It has been said that our

mankind by acknowledging the importance of

research on IL-6 will abolish the need for

fundamental science, and engaging in scientiﬁcwheelchairs among rheumatoid arthritis patientsand technological development.

in 10 years, and I am absolutely delighted that

I sincerely hope that this prize will reaﬃrm theour research has led to helping many people

importance of fundamental scientiﬁc research andsuﬀering from diseases.

set a vision and dream for the young people.

Background and rationale:
Over the past few decades, dramatic progress has been made in diagnostic accuracy of diseases and physical functions.
This has been due to the advancements of science and technology in the field of diagnostic imaging instrument,
information based medical technology, and moreover, the medical diagnostic technology and biochemical-based diagnosis
methods based upon the study of genetics.
In addition to the advancements in diagnosis technology, innovations in medical treatment technique including minimallyinvasive surgery and radiation therapy have improved the curability rate of many diseases, thereby significantly
contributing to the well-being of people. Furthermore, even greater developments are being anticipated in the field of
medicine, such as diagnostic technology for early detection of diseases, epoch-making drug discovery and regenerative
medicine.
With a rapidly aging population, maintaining and improving health and disease prevention has become increasingly
important for the preservation of social vitality. As a result, there are high expectations for further development andadvancement of the science and technology in this field.

Achievement eligible:
The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of "Healthcare and Medical Technology" is awarded to individuals who have madesignificant contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and technological breakthroughs in creating andpromoting new technologies for medical diagnosis and treatment, and those contributing to maintenance and furtheranceof our health and disease prevention.

Schedule (2013-2015)
The fields eligible for the Japan Prize (2013 to 2015) have been decided for the two research areas, respectively.
These fields rotate every three years, basically.
Every year the Fields Selection Committee announces the fields eligible for the next three years.
Areas of Physics, Chemistry and EngineeringYear

Fields Eligible

Areas of Life Science, Agriculture and Medicine
Year

Fields Eligible

2013

Materials, Production

2013

Biological Production, Biological Environment

2014Electronics, Information, Communication

2014Life Science

2015

Resources, Energy, Social Infrastructure

2015

Medical Science, Medicinal Science

Dr. Dennis M. Ritchie

Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Emeritus,
Bell LabsUSA

Dr. Ken L. Thompson
Distinguished Engineer,
Google Inc.

USA

Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto
Emeritus Professor,
Osaka University

Japan

Dr. Toshio Hirano
Professor,
Osaka University

Japan

Dr. Dennis M. Ritchie

Dr. Ken L. Thompson

Born: September 9, 1941
Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Emeritus,
Bell Labs

Born: February 4, 1943
Distinguished Engineer, Google Inc.

Message from the laureate

Message from the laureate

In accepting this prestigious award I would like to

It is a great honor to receive the Japan Prize

thank the executives of the Japan Prize Foundation -the world's most important award for science andPresident Ito, Chairman Yoshikawa, and all thetechnology impact.

support staﬀ. I would also like to thank my family

We would like to express our deepest sympathies for the people who suffered from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
The Japan Prize Foundation presents the Japan Prize award for those whose outstanding achievements in science andtechnology are recognized as having advanced the frontiers of knowledge and served the cause of peace and prosperity for mankind.
The 2011 Japan Prize in the field of “Information and Communications” was awarded to Dr. Dennis Ritchie and Dr. Ken
Thompson for developing the UNIX operating system, and in the field of “Bioscience and Medical Science”, it was awarded toDr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto and Dr. Toshio Hirano for their discovery of Interleukin-6 and its application in treating diseases.
After announcing the Laureates for 2011 on January 25 , we were at the height of preparation for the Japan Prize Presentation
Ceremony and the Banquet scheduled on April 20 in Tokyo, when the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami disaster of March 11 stuck.
After considering various circumstances, we reached a conclusion that the presentation ceremony, the banquet and all of therelated events had to be canceled. However, the thoughtful support of the people and organizations concerned made it possible
for us to honor the laureates and award the Japan Prize at various locations.

for their love and their unwavering support.
I especially extend thanks to Ken Thompson,
my colleague and respected friend, with whom I
am sharing this award and who is probably moredeserving for his contributions than I.
And I would like to recognize the role of thecompany I worked for over more than forty
years: Bell Labs.
Bell Labs has moved about in structure andlocation within its several parent corporations.
Through all of this, the research part of Bell Labs
remained amazingly stable. The work changed
along with technologies, and in fact theinteresting areas for research changed as well.
Fortunately, software work remained vital, andthat is one reason my own job lasted for so long.

The Japan Prize is awarded to scientists throughout the world who havebeen credited with original and outstanding achievements and have mademajor contributions to the advancement of science and technology, thereby
manifestly furthering the cause of peace and the prosperity of mankind.

While the prize encompasses all categories of science and technology, twofields of study are designated for the prize each year in consideration ofdevelopments in science and technology.
Each Japan Prize laureate receives a certificate of merit and a prize medal. A
cash award of 50 million yen is also made for each prize field.

One constant over my career has been thewonderful atmosphere provided by my colleagues.
The fact is that many of the fresh ideas in Unix
were provided by others working with us.

When talking about impact, it is beﬁtting thatthe computer ﬁeld should be included. Perhaps noother ﬁeld of science has had a greater impact onhuman activity.
I cannot help but have two contradictory
feelings about this award. First is the elation of
being elevated to the level of past recipients. And
then after looking at those recipients, a feelingthat I do not measure up.
I am honored to accept the Japan Prize, with
Dennis Ritchie, in the ﬁelds of Information andCommunications. I am humbled to join the
distinguished list of other recipients.

贈賞式（日本）

Press Conference

The Japan Prize Presentation（Japan）

The Japan Prize Presentation（United States）

PR Campaign
On October 1, 2010, The Scienceand Technology Foundation ofJapan was officially recognized as a
Public Interest Incorporated
Foundation by the Prime Minister ofJapan.
On this occasion, the Foundation’sname was changed to “The Japan
Prize Foundation” . The Foundation
has since been actively promoting its
recognition internationally throughPR campaigns and spreading
information globally.
“Science” ( Feb. 18, 2011)

President Ito and Dr. Kishimoto (right)

On January 25, 2011, the press conference announcing the laureates of 2011 (27th) Japan Prize was held at Hotel New
Otani Tokyo.
The press conference began with the announcement of laureates by Chairman Yoshikawa, followed by Selection
Committee Chairman Komiyama explaining the laureate selection process. Next, the basis for the laureate’s achievements
were explained by Selection Subcommittee Chairman Miyahara and Asashima for the fields of "Information andCommunications" and "Bioscience and Medical Science" respectively.

Chairman Yoshikawa and Dr. Hirano (right)

Dr. Thompson, and Chairman Yoshikawa

Dr. Ritchie and Chairman Yoshikawa

April 20, 2011

May 17, 2011

May 19, 2011

Hotel New Otani Osaka

The Auditorium of Google Inc. H.Q., Mountain View, California

The Auditorium of Bell Labs H.Q., Murray Hill, New Jersey

Japan Prize Foundation:■ President, Dr. Masao Ito and his wife
■ Chairman, Prof. Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife

Google Inc.:■ Vice President, Dr. Vinton Cerf (2008 Japan Prize Laureate)■ Senior Vice President, Dr. Bill Coughran■ Other executive officers and employees, approx.160 people in total
Consulate-General of Japan in San Francisco:■ Deputy Consul General, Mr. Michio Harada
The Japan Prize Foundation:■ Chairman, Prof.Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife
■ Senior Executive Director, Mr. Ken Shimba

Bell Labs:■ President, Dr. Jeong Kim■ Other executive officers and employees
Members of Bell Labs alumni, approx.360 people in total
Consulate-General of Japan in New York:■ Consul General, Ambassador Shigeyuki Hiroki
The Japan Prize Foundation:■ Chairman, Prof. Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife
■ Senior Executive Director, Mr. Ken Shimba

Congratulatory Dinner

The Japan Prize Foundation
The Foundation was established in 1982, with the aim of contributing to the further development of science andtechnology. In addition to recognizing outstanding achievements with the Japan Prize, the Foundation has been promoting
science and technology by hosting the "Easy-to-understand Science and Technology Seminars" and awarding Research
Grants to help nurture young scientists.

Research Grants

Prof. Yoshikawa
Chairman of Boardof Directors

Prof. Komiyama
Chairman of Selection
Committee

Dr. Thompson at the press conferenceProf. Miyahara
Chairman of Selection
Subcommittee

Prof. Asashima
Chairman of Selection
Subcommittee

Dr. Ritchie participates by video message

From left to right: Dr. Cerf, Dr. Coughran, Mrs. Thompson,Dr. Thompson, Mrs. Yoshikawa, Chairman Yoshikawa

At the Computer History Museum“Easy-to-understand Science andTechnology Seminars”

Stockholm International YouthScience Seminar (SIYSS)The Foundation hosts series ofseminars on advanced technologies
that are being used widely in our
everyday lives. The seminars aredesigned for students and thegeneral public, and experts in therelated fields explain in plain
language. Over 200 seminars havebeen held across Japan since thefirst seminar was held over 20
years ago.

The Japan Prize Foundation sends
two Japanese students to the annual
Stockholm International YouthScience Seminar, which is held
under the auspices of the Swedish
Federation of Young Scientists andwith the support of the Nobel
Foundation. Since the program
started in 1987, about 50 students
from Japan have participated in thisevent.

From left to right: Chairman Yoshikawa, Mrs.Yoshikawa,Dr. Ritchie, President Kim

The Foundation provides research
grants to scientists and researchers
who are under 35 years of age.
Every year, the Foundation selects
recipients in the same fields as theJapan Prize and gives one million
Japanese yen (approx. US $ 12,000)
per person. Each year, about 20
young scientists receive grants.
Back row from right to left : President Ito and his wife, Chairman Yoshikawa and his wife
Front row from right to left : Dr. Kishimoto and his wife, Dr. Hirano and his wife

“Science” ( June 3, 2011)

Dr. Ritchie at an interview

贈賞式（日本）

Press Conference

The Japan Prize Presentation（Japan）

The Japan Prize Presentation（United States）

PR Campaign
On October 1, 2010, The Scienceand Technology Foundation ofJapan was officially recognized as a
Public Interest Incorporated
Foundation by the Prime Minister ofJapan.
On this occasion, the Foundation’sname was changed to “The Japan
Prize Foundation” . The Foundation
has since been actively promoting its
recognition internationally throughPR campaigns and spreading
information globally.
“Science” ( Feb. 18, 2011)

President Ito and Dr. Kishimoto (right)

On January 25, 2011, the press conference announcing the laureates of 2011 (27th) Japan Prize was held at Hotel New
Otani Tokyo.
The press conference began with the announcement of laureates by Chairman Yoshikawa, followed by Selection
Committee Chairman Komiyama explaining the laureate selection process. Next, the basis for the laureate’s achievements
were explained by Selection Subcommittee Chairman Miyahara and Asashima for the fields of "Information andCommunications" and "Bioscience and Medical Science" respectively.

Chairman Yoshikawa and Dr. Hirano (right)

Dr. Thompson, and Chairman Yoshikawa

Dr. Ritchie and Chairman Yoshikawa

April 20, 2011

May 17, 2011

May 19, 2011

Hotel New Otani Osaka

The Auditorium of Google Inc. H.Q., Mountain View, California

The Auditorium of Bell Labs H.Q., Murray Hill, New Jersey

Japan Prize Foundation:■ President, Dr. Masao Ito and his wife
■ Chairman, Prof. Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife

Google Inc.:■ Vice President, Dr. Vinton Cerf (2008 Japan Prize Laureate)■ Senior Vice President, Dr. Bill Coughran■ Other executive officers and employees, approx.160 people in total
Consulate-General of Japan in San Francisco:■ Deputy Consul General, Mr. Michio Harada
The Japan Prize Foundation:■ Chairman, Prof.Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife
■ Senior Executive Director, Mr. Ken Shimba

Bell Labs:■ President, Dr. Jeong Kim■ Other executive officers and employees
Members of Bell Labs alumni, approx.360 people in total
Consulate-General of Japan in New York:■ Consul General, Ambassador Shigeyuki Hiroki
The Japan Prize Foundation:■ Chairman, Prof. Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife
■ Senior Executive Director, Mr. Ken Shimba

Congratulatory Dinner

The Japan Prize Foundation
The Foundation was established in 1982, with the aim of contributing to the further development of science andtechnology. In addition to recognizing outstanding achievements with the Japan Prize, the Foundation has been promoting
science and technology by hosting the "Easy-to-understand Science and Technology Seminars" and awarding Research
Grants to help nurture young scientists.

Research Grants

Prof. Yoshikawa
Chairman of Boardof Directors

Prof. Komiyama
Chairman of Selection
Committee

Dr. Thompson at the press conferenceProf. Miyahara
Chairman of Selection
Subcommittee

Prof. Asashima
Chairman of Selection
Subcommittee

Dr. Ritchie participates by video message

From left to right: Dr. Cerf, Dr. Coughran, Mrs. Thompson,Dr. Thompson, Mrs. Yoshikawa, Chairman Yoshikawa

At the Computer History Museum“Easy-to-understand Science andTechnology Seminars”

Stockholm International YouthScience Seminar (SIYSS)The Foundation hosts series ofseminars on advanced technologies
that are being used widely in our
everyday lives. The seminars aredesigned for students and thegeneral public, and experts in therelated fields explain in plain
language. Over 200 seminars havebeen held across Japan since thefirst seminar was held over 20
years ago.

The Japan Prize Foundation sends
two Japanese students to the annual
Stockholm International YouthScience Seminar, which is held
under the auspices of the Swedish
Federation of Young Scientists andwith the support of the Nobel
Foundation. Since the program
started in 1987, about 50 students
from Japan have participated in thisevent.

From left to right: Chairman Yoshikawa, Mrs.Yoshikawa,Dr. Ritchie, President Kim

The Foundation provides research
grants to scientists and researchers
who are under 35 years of age.
Every year, the Foundation selects
recipients in the same fields as theJapan Prize and gives one million
Japanese yen (approx. US $ 12,000)
per person. Each year, about 20
young scientists receive grants.
Back row from right to left : President Ito and his wife, Chairman Yoshikawa and his wife
Front row from right to left : Dr. Kishimoto and his wife, Dr. Hirano and his wife

“Science” ( June 3, 2011)

Dr. Ritchie at an interview

贈賞式（日本）

Press Conference

The Japan Prize Presentation（Japan）

The Japan Prize Presentation（United States）

PR Campaign
On October 1, 2010, The Scienceand Technology Foundation ofJapan was officially recognized as a
Public Interest Incorporated
Foundation by the Prime Minister ofJapan.
On this occasion, the Foundation’sname was changed to “The Japan
Prize Foundation” . The Foundation
has since been actively promoting its
recognition internationally throughPR campaigns and spreading
information globally.
“Science” ( Feb. 18, 2011)

President Ito and Dr. Kishimoto (right)

On January 25, 2011, the press conference announcing the laureates of 2011 (27th) Japan Prize was held at Hotel New
Otani Tokyo.
The press conference began with the announcement of laureates by Chairman Yoshikawa, followed by Selection
Committee Chairman Komiyama explaining the laureate selection process. Next, the basis for the laureate’s achievements
were explained by Selection Subcommittee Chairman Miyahara and Asashima for the fields of "Information andCommunications" and "Bioscience and Medical Science" respectively.

Chairman Yoshikawa and Dr. Hirano (right)

Dr. Thompson, and Chairman Yoshikawa

Dr. Ritchie and Chairman Yoshikawa

April 20, 2011

May 17, 2011

May 19, 2011

Hotel New Otani Osaka

The Auditorium of Google Inc. H.Q., Mountain View, California

The Auditorium of Bell Labs H.Q., Murray Hill, New Jersey

Japan Prize Foundation:■ President, Dr. Masao Ito and his wife
■ Chairman, Prof. Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife

Google Inc.:■ Vice President, Dr. Vinton Cerf (2008 Japan Prize Laureate)■ Senior Vice President, Dr. Bill Coughran■ Other executive officers and employees, approx.160 people in total
Consulate-General of Japan in San Francisco:■ Deputy Consul General, Mr. Michio Harada
The Japan Prize Foundation:■ Chairman, Prof.Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife
■ Senior Executive Director, Mr. Ken Shimba

Bell Labs:■ President, Dr. Jeong Kim■ Other executive officers and employees
Members of Bell Labs alumni, approx.360 people in total
Consulate-General of Japan in New York:■ Consul General, Ambassador Shigeyuki Hiroki
The Japan Prize Foundation:■ Chairman, Prof. Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife
■ Senior Executive Director, Mr. Ken Shimba

Congratulatory Dinner

The Japan Prize Foundation
The Foundation was established in 1982, with the aim of contributing to the further development of science andtechnology. In addition to recognizing outstanding achievements with the Japan Prize, the Foundation has been promoting
science and technology by hosting the "Easy-to-understand Science and Technology Seminars" and awarding Research
Grants to help nurture young scientists.

Research Grants

Prof. Yoshikawa
Chairman of Boardof Directors

Prof. Komiyama
Chairman of Selection
Committee

Dr. Thompson at the press conferenceProf. Miyahara
Chairman of Selection
Subcommittee

Prof. Asashima
Chairman of Selection
Subcommittee

Dr. Ritchie participates by video message

From left to right: Dr. Cerf, Dr. Coughran, Mrs. Thompson,Dr. Thompson, Mrs. Yoshikawa, Chairman Yoshikawa

At the Computer History Museum“Easy-to-understand Science andTechnology Seminars”

Stockholm International YouthScience Seminar (SIYSS)The Foundation hosts series ofseminars on advanced technologies
that are being used widely in our
everyday lives. The seminars aredesigned for students and thegeneral public, and experts in therelated fields explain in plain
language. Over 200 seminars havebeen held across Japan since thefirst seminar was held over 20
years ago.

The Japan Prize Foundation sends
two Japanese students to the annual
Stockholm International YouthScience Seminar, which is held
under the auspices of the Swedish
Federation of Young Scientists andwith the support of the Nobel
Foundation. Since the program
started in 1987, about 50 students
from Japan have participated in thisevent.

From left to right: Chairman Yoshikawa, Mrs.Yoshikawa,Dr. Ritchie, President Kim

The Foundation provides research
grants to scientists and researchers
who are under 35 years of age.
Every year, the Foundation selects
recipients in the same fields as theJapan Prize and gives one million
Japanese yen (approx. US $ 12,000)
per person. Each year, about 20
young scientists receive grants.
Back row from right to left : President Ito and his wife, Chairman Yoshikawa and his wife
Front row from right to left : Dr. Kishimoto and his wife, Dr. Hirano and his wife

“Science” ( June 3, 2011)

Dr. Ritchie at an interview

贈賞式（日本）

Press Conference

The Japan Prize Presentation（Japan）

The Japan Prize Presentation（United States）

PR Campaign
On October 1, 2010, The Scienceand Technology Foundation ofJapan was officially recognized as a
Public Interest Incorporated
Foundation by the Prime Minister ofJapan.
On this occasion, the Foundation’sname was changed to “The Japan
Prize Foundation” . The Foundation
has since been actively promoting its
recognition internationally throughPR campaigns and spreading
information globally.
“Science” ( Feb. 18, 2011)

President Ito and Dr. Kishimoto (right)

On January 25, 2011, the press conference announcing the laureates of 2011 (27th) Japan Prize was held at Hotel New
Otani Tokyo.
The press conference began with the announcement of laureates by Chairman Yoshikawa, followed by Selection
Committee Chairman Komiyama explaining the laureate selection process. Next, the basis for the laureate’s achievements
were explained by Selection Subcommittee Chairman Miyahara and Asashima for the fields of "Information andCommunications" and "Bioscience and Medical Science" respectively.

Chairman Yoshikawa and Dr. Hirano (right)

Dr. Thompson, and Chairman Yoshikawa

Dr. Ritchie and Chairman Yoshikawa

April 20, 2011

May 17, 2011

May 19, 2011

Hotel New Otani Osaka

The Auditorium of Google Inc. H.Q., Mountain View, California

The Auditorium of Bell Labs H.Q., Murray Hill, New Jersey

Japan Prize Foundation:■ President, Dr. Masao Ito and his wife
■ Chairman, Prof. Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife

Google Inc.:■ Vice President, Dr. Vinton Cerf (2008 Japan Prize Laureate)■ Senior Vice President, Dr. Bill Coughran■ Other executive officers and employees, approx.160 people in total
Consulate-General of Japan in San Francisco:■ Deputy Consul General, Mr. Michio Harada
The Japan Prize Foundation:■ Chairman, Prof.Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife
■ Senior Executive Director, Mr. Ken Shimba

Bell Labs:■ President, Dr. Jeong Kim■ Other executive officers and employees
Members of Bell Labs alumni, approx.360 people in total
Consulate-General of Japan in New York:■ Consul General, Ambassador Shigeyuki Hiroki
The Japan Prize Foundation:■ Chairman, Prof. Hiroyuki Yoshikawa and his wife
■ Senior Executive Director, Mr. Ken Shimba

Congratulatory Dinner

The Japan Prize Foundation
The Foundation was established in 1982, with the aim of contributing to the further development of science andtechnology. In addition to recognizing outstanding achievements with the Japan Prize, the Foundation has been promoting
science and technology by hosting the "Easy-to-understand Science and Technology Seminars" and awarding Research
Grants to help nurture young scientists.

Research Grants

Prof. Yoshikawa
Chairman of Boardof Directors

Prof. Komiyama
Chairman of Selection
Committee

Dr. Thompson at the press conferenceProf. Miyahara
Chairman of Selection
Subcommittee

Prof. Asashima
Chairman of Selection
Subcommittee

Dr. Ritchie participates by video message

From left to right: Dr. Cerf, Dr. Coughran, Mrs. Thompson,Dr. Thompson, Mrs. Yoshikawa, Chairman Yoshikawa

At the Computer History Museum“Easy-to-understand Science andTechnology Seminars”

Stockholm International YouthScience Seminar (SIYSS)The Foundation hosts series ofseminars on advanced technologies
that are being used widely in our
everyday lives. The seminars aredesigned for students and thegeneral public, and experts in therelated fields explain in plain
language. Over 200 seminars havebeen held across Japan since thefirst seminar was held over 20
years ago.

The Japan Prize Foundation sends
two Japanese students to the annual
Stockholm International YouthScience Seminar, which is held
under the auspices of the Swedish
Federation of Young Scientists andwith the support of the Nobel
Foundation. Since the program
started in 1987, about 50 students
from Japan have participated in thisevent.

From left to right: Chairman Yoshikawa, Mrs.Yoshikawa,Dr. Ritchie, President Kim

The Foundation provides research
grants to scientists and researchers
who are under 35 years of age.
Every year, the Foundation selects
recipients in the same fields as theJapan Prize and gives one million
Japanese yen (approx. US $ 12,000)
per person. Each year, about 20
young scientists receive grants.
Back row from right to left : President Ito and his wife, Chairman Yoshikawa and his wife
Front row from right to left : Dr. Kishimoto and his wife, Dr. Hirano and his wife

“Science” ( June 3, 2011)

Dr. Ritchie at an interview

Field eligible for the award : Bioscience and Medical Science

Discovery of interleukin-6 andits application in treating diseases

Fields for the 2012 (28th) Japan Prize
The fields eligible for the 2012 (28th) Japan Prizes are "Environment, Energy and Infrastructure" and"Healthcare and Medical Technology." The Foundation called for over 13,000 official nominators tonominate the candidates through the web by JPNS(Japan Prize Nomination System). The nominatedcandidates are now under rigorous evaluation by the Japan Prize Selection Committee. The results will beannounced in January 2012. The presentation ceremony will take place in Tokyo in April 2012.

Akasaka Twin Tower East, 13th Floor, 2-17-22
Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0052, JAPANTel : +81-3-5545-0551 Fax : +81-3-5545-0554
www.japanprize.jp

No. 46

July, 2011

Field eligible for the award : Information and Communications

Development of the operating system, UNIXArea of Studies I: mathematics, physics, chemistry and engineering
Fields eligible for the award: Environment, Energy and Infrastructure
Background and rationale:
In recent years, the increase in resource and energy consumption and the destruction of the natural environment caused
by various human activities have reached a level that is no longer ignorable, prompting negotiations for environmental
protection measures on a global scale.
A strong need has thus been reaffirmed for innovation in fundamental technologies that profoundly influences theglobal environment. They include technologies for energy production and utilization, material production, water
resource management, urban development, physical distribution and transportation. Particular importance lies in the
promotion of energy saving across civil life and industry, exploitation of alternative energy resources and new
production technology under resource and environmental constrains. Moreover, scientific advancement and innovationin disaster mitigation and safety measures is another important target for the development of the social infrastructure.

Achievement eligible:
The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of "Environment, Energy, and Infrastructure" is awarded to individuals who havemade significant contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and technological breakthroughs increation, innovation and propagation of technologies that are related to environmental protection, energy,
environmentally benign production and social infrastructure, thereby improving and protecting the global environment.

2011 (27th) Japan Prize was awarded to four
doctors from Japan and the United States- The presentation of the prize took placein both Japan and the United States -“Information and Communications” field“Bioscience and Medical Science” field

Area of Studies II: biology, agriculture and medical science
Fields eligible for the award: Healthcare and Medical Technology

Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto

Dr. Toshio Hirano

Born: May 7, 1939
Emeritus Professor, Osaka University

Born: April 17, 1947
Professor, Osaka University

Message from the laureate

Message from the laureate

In the early 1970s, a molecule that induces

With a ﬁrm belief in the importance of attaining

antibody production by B lymphocytes was

the true nature of things, I have been challenging

discovered and later named as IL-6. We werethe confronting diﬃculties one by one as if I wasvery fortunate that this newly discovered

climbing up mountains and cliﬀs to reach themolecule plays major roles in the pathogenesis ofextreme summit.

many diseases.

Through these fundamental research eﬀorts,

Based on our successive fundamental research

we were blessed with the discovery of IL-6 whichon the structures of IL-6 molecule and its

opened up the way for the development of

receptors, and the signal transducing function, an

therapeutic medication for diseases likeeﬀective antibody drug for inﬂammatory diseases

rheumatoid arthritis.

such as rheumatoid arthritis was developed for

It is something I could never have imagined

the ﬁrst time in Japan. Today the drug has been

when I graduated from the medical department

approved in over 90 countries and is widely usedof Osaka University 39 years ago. Today, I amaround the globe.

determined as ever to keep contributing to theIt has been my belief that true medical
research seeking for essence will eventually yieldsociety through medical research and developing
the next generation researchers.

improvements in diseases diagnosis andI believe that Japan, for the sake of its future,

treatments, regardless of whether it seems

must contribute to the peace and prosperity of

beneﬁcial or not. It has been said that our

mankind by acknowledging the importance of

research on IL-6 will abolish the need for

fundamental science, and engaging in scientiﬁcwheelchairs among rheumatoid arthritis patientsand technological development.

in 10 years, and I am absolutely delighted that

I sincerely hope that this prize will reaﬃrm theour research has led to helping many people

importance of fundamental scientiﬁc research andsuﬀering from diseases.

set a vision and dream for the young people.

Background and rationale:
Over the past few decades, dramatic progress has been made in diagnostic accuracy of diseases and physical functions.
This has been due to the advancements of science and technology in the field of diagnostic imaging instrument,
information based medical technology, and moreover, the medical diagnostic technology and biochemical-based diagnosis
methods based upon the study of genetics.
In addition to the advancements in diagnosis technology, innovations in medical treatment technique including minimallyinvasive surgery and radiation therapy have improved the curability rate of many diseases, thereby significantly
contributing to the well-being of people. Furthermore, even greater developments are being anticipated in the field of
medicine, such as diagnostic technology for early detection of diseases, epoch-making drug discovery and regenerative
medicine.
With a rapidly aging population, maintaining and improving health and disease prevention has become increasingly
important for the preservation of social vitality. As a result, there are high expectations for further development andadvancement of the science and technology in this field.

Achievement eligible:
The 2012 Japan Prize in the fields of "Healthcare and Medical Technology" is awarded to individuals who have madesignificant contributions to society by achieving momentous scientific and technological breakthroughs in creating andpromoting new technologies for medical diagnosis and treatment, and those contributing to maintenance and furtheranceof our health and disease prevention.

Schedule (2013-2015)
The fields eligible for the Japan Prize (2013 to 2015) have been decided for the two research areas, respectively.
These fields rotate every three years, basically.
Every year the Fields Selection Committee announces the fields eligible for the next three years.
Areas of Physics, Chemistry and EngineeringYear

Fields Eligible

Areas of Life Science, Agriculture and Medicine
Year

Fields Eligible

2013

Materials, Production

2013

Biological Production, Biological Environment

2014Electronics, Information, Communication

2014Life Science

2015

Resources, Energy, Social Infrastructure

2015

Medical Science, Medicinal Science

Dr. Dennis M. Ritchie

Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Emeritus,
Bell LabsUSA

Dr. Ken L. Thompson
Distinguished Engineer,
Google Inc.

USA

Dr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto
Emeritus Professor,
Osaka University

Japan

Dr. Toshio Hirano
Professor,
Osaka University

Japan

Dr. Dennis M. Ritchie

Dr. Ken L. Thompson

Born: September 9, 1941
Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Emeritus,
Bell Labs

Born: February 4, 1943
Distinguished Engineer, Google Inc.

Message from the laureate

Message from the laureate

In accepting this prestigious award I would like to

It is a great honor to receive the Japan Prize

thank the executives of the Japan Prize Foundation -the world's most important award for science andPresident Ito, Chairman Yoshikawa, and all thetechnology impact.

support staﬀ. I would also like to thank my family

We would like to express our deepest sympathies for the people who suffered from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
The Japan Prize Foundation presents the Japan Prize award for those whose outstanding achievements in science andtechnology are recognized as having advanced the frontiers of knowledge and served the cause of peace and prosperity for mankind.
The 2011 Japan Prize in the field of “Information and Communications” was awarded to Dr. Dennis Ritchie and Dr. Ken
Thompson for developing the UNIX operating system, and in the field of “Bioscience and Medical Science”, it was awarded toDr. Tadamitsu Kishimoto and Dr. Toshio Hirano for their discovery of Interleukin-6 and its application in treating diseases.
After announcing the Laureates for 2011 on January 25 , we were at the height of preparation for the Japan Prize Presentation
Ceremony and the Banquet scheduled on April 20 in Tokyo, when the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami disaster of March 11 stuck.
After considering various circumstances, we reached a conclusion that the presentation ceremony, the banquet and all of therelated events had to be canceled. However, the thoughtful support of the people and organizations concerned made it possible
for us to honor the laureates and award the Japan Prize at various locations.

for their love and their unwavering support.
I especially extend thanks to Ken Thompson,
my colleague and respected friend, with whom I
am sharing this award and who is probably moredeserving for his contributions than I.
And I would like to recognize the role of thecompany I worked for over more than forty
years: Bell Labs.
Bell Labs has moved about in structure andlocation within its several parent corporations.
Through all of this, the research part of Bell Labs
remained amazingly stable. The work changed
along with technologies, and in fact theinteresting areas for research changed as well.
Fortunately, software work remained vital, andthat is one reason my own job lasted for so long.

The Japan Prize is awarded to scientists throughout the world who havebeen credited with original and outstanding achievements and have mademajor contributions to the advancement of science and technology, thereby
manifestly furthering the cause of peace and the prosperity of mankind.

While the prize encompasses all categories of science and technology, twofields of study are designated for the prize each year in consideration ofdevelopments in science and technology.
Each Japan Prize laureate receives a certificate of merit and a prize medal. A
cash award of 50 million yen is also made for each prize field.

One constant over my career has been thewonderful atmosphere provided by my colleagues.
The fact is that many of the fresh ideas in Unix
were provided by others working with us.

When talking about impact, it is beﬁtting thatthe computer ﬁeld should be included. Perhaps noother ﬁeld of science has had a greater impact onhuman activity.
I cannot help but have two contradictory
feelings about this award. First is the elation of
being elevated to the level of past recipients. And
then after looking at those recipients, a feelingthat I do not measure up.
I am honored to accept the Japan Prize, with
Dennis Ritchie, in the ﬁelds of Information andCommunications. I am humbled to join the
distinguished list of other recipients.