TOYOTA KONPON RESEARCH INSTITUTE INC.
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TOYOTA KO N P ON R E SE AR C H IN ST IT U T E I N C.
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A nnua l R e po r t 2 0 2 2

In Memoriam

President

Shoichiro
ToyodaandCluster
Research

Genesis Research Institute East Tokyo Laboratory Opening Ceremony

GRI2 Symposium with Professor Kondow

01

Representative Director Shoichiro Toyoda, who was deeply
involved in the establishment of the Genesis Research Instituteand expertly continued to lead the organization, passed away on
February 14, 2023. Members of the Institute, who received thisnews via the internet while at work, halted whatever task they
were involved in to pause and reﬂect .
The Genesis Research Institute was established on June 11,1996, a date commemorating the birthday of the late Kiichiro
Toyoda. The Toyota group companies jointly founded theInstitute with the objective of contributing to sustainable humandevelopment with a focus on the course of the necessary
scientiﬁc, technological, and social research. Needless to say,both Eiji Toyoda and Shoichiro Toyoda played central roles in
discussions around the Institute's establishment.
It was around that time that Professor Tamotsu Kondow and
Shoichiro met, introduced by the Genesis Research Institute s
ﬁrst President, Professor Toshio Sada as well as Professor
Masatoshi Koshiba and Professor Kozo Kuchitsu. Professor
Kondow was just starting his studies in cluster science at the
University of Tokyo and completed the development of basic
technologies of forming and observing clusters, putting him at
the global forefront of cluster research.
A cluster is a collection of several to several thousand atoms or
molecules an order of magnitude smaller than what used to becalled "ultraﬁne particles." By manipulating the number of atoms
and molecules comprising these clusters, it is possible to create
new properties not found in previous materials. This was
expected to lead to fundamental understanding of materials
and substances, making it the main subject of research for the
Genesis Research Institute.
The following year, in 1997, Professor Kondow, who hadtransferred to Toyota Technological Institute along with his
students, was commissioned to begin basic research on cluster
science. Intending to conduct frequent exchanges with researchers
from around the world, he established the East Tokyo Laboratory,
a small but well-equipped laboratory in Ichikawa City, Chiba
Prefecture, a site that was easily accessible from Narita Airport.
Professor Kondow, his students, and researchers from the Genesis
Research Institute assembled here and began their research,hand-building the necessary equipment along the way. Four
years later, in 2000, Professor Kondow and four young researchers
were invited to present a lecture at the Nobel Symposium.
Subsequently, in 2004, Professor Kondow was honored with theglobally prestigious Humboldt Research Award ("Humboldt Prize").
With these and other developments, basic research was actively
being conducted at the lively East Tokyo Laboratory.

SeminarHonorary Chairman Tours Lab

GRI3 Symposium Poster Session

GRI3 Symposium

Shoichiro Toyoda
Founded the Konpon Research Institute in June 1996

and directed the Institute's operations for 27 years as
Representative Director.

Honorary Chairman, Toyota Motor Corporation

Doctor of Engineering (Nagoya University, 1955)

Conferred with court rank of "Junii" (Junior Second Rank),
decorated with the Grand Cordon of the Orderof the Paulownia Flowers, and received numerous otherawards and citations.

Passed away on February 14, 2023 (age 97).

Shoichiro truly enjoyed this East Tokyo Laboratory. He often
dropped by and had relaxed discussions with Professor Kondow
and the young researchers there amid the lab equipment.
Everyone at the East Tokyo Laboratory can recall the occasional
experience of being surprised at a deeply penetrating question.
Shoichiro always had a smile on his face whenever he left thelaboratory. Here we present some comments from a few of those
who spent valuable time with Shoichiro in the laboratory.
"I had memorable incidents in conversing about cluster researchwith Shoichiro. The most impressive one was when he stood in frontof a molecular model. He asked us by pointing to a rod connectingsome atoms, 'What is this? Are there really rods like this insidemolecules? Is it really there?' I don't think I was the only one who
sensed his inquisitive spirit as a scientist."
Akira Terasaki, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences, the Graduate
School of Sciences, Kyushu University"The Genesis Research Institute has provided us with ample
time, space, and opportunities for cluster research. Even now, it
is diﬃcult to prepare a better research environment than this. I
am again impressed by the depth of Shoichiro's passion forresearch."
Fumitaka Mafune, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences andDean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The
University of Tokyo.
"Whenever Shoichiro visited our laboratory, he always createdan atmosphere where we researchers could explain things
without feeling timid. I am grateful to Professor Kondow and
Shoichiro for fostering our development."
Jun-ya Kohno, Professor, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of
Science, Gakushuin University.
"We had a plan, more like a dream, to conduct experiments
together. Our great love of research was something we had incommon, and we felt closer to each other."
Masahiko Ichihashi, Guest Professor, Toyota Institute ofTechnology.
"Shoichiro often told Professor Kondow, who really enjoys
experiments, that he wanted to conduct experiments in aworkman's overall. Professor Kondow planned and put on
numerous individual lectures, including a lecture by Nobel Prizecandidate Katsuhiko Sato, for Shoichiro who was full of
curiosity. The depth of mutual understanding and trust between
the two was clear."
Hisato Yasumatsu, Guest Professor, Toyota Institute ofTechnology

Following its establishment, the East Tokyo Laboratory
became, as per the original intention, a major venue forinternational exchange in this subject, with dozens of groups ofresearchers from Japan and all over the world visiting each year,
at times holding seminars, and sometimes even staying at the lab
to conduct joint research. Shoichiro was extremely busy, butwhenever his schedule allowed, he treasured the opportunity toparticipate in seminars at the East Tokyo Laboratory andencounter the world's latest research ﬁrst-hand.
He particularly favored the Institute-sponsored GRI
Symposium, also referred to as the "Solvay Conference," aninternational conference in the cluster ﬁeld. The symposium washeld three times, and Shoichiro was regular participant from theﬁrst meeting. He never hesitated to ask questions of experts atthe conference, thus conveying his unquenchable curiosity about
science to the younger cohort.
To fulﬁll Shoichiro's expectations, the East Tokyo Laboratory
contributed to the progress of basic research, discovering
phenomena and elucidating their mechanisms, while disseminating
information in dozens of papers and presentations annually.
Meanwhile, on the application front, the lab contributed to Toyota
Motor Corporation's development of exhaust gas puriﬁcation
catalysts. Moreover, in terms of human resource development, we
believe that we've been able to ﬁll the role Shoichiro wanted thosefrom the East Tokyo Laboratory to play, including heading out
from the lab to serve as faculty at universities such as the
University of Tokyo and Kyushu University, and helping ourstudents from aﬃliated universities get launched in society.
Following these contributions both within and outside the Toyota
Group, cluster science research came to an end in March 2023, as
did the role played by the East Tokyo Laboratory. Cognizant of how
science and technology have progressed more deeply and widely
than could have been imagined at our founding, the Konpon
Research Institute will use this opportunity to take up a new system
and approach and further accelerate that progress, so that we may
continue to contribute to the sustainable development of
humankind. Shoichiro, who concentrated his vast energies on the
Konpon Research Institute since its establishment, seems to bequietly and passionately appealing to us. Never forgetting Shoichiro's
aim in establishing his beloved Konpon Research Institute, nor theattitude towards research that he demonstrated throughout the years
after that, we are determined to carry on with research activities as
we pray sincerely for the repose of his soul.
Jun Hasegawa and Noboru Kikuchi

02

Toyota Konpon Research Institute,

now it s a time to change for new evolution with an eye on the next era

President

Noboru Kikuchi

Representative Director

Takeshi Uchiyamada

Director

Hiroyasu Watanabe

Genesis Research Institute, Inc. was established in 1996 on June 11, the birthday of Kiichiro Toyoda, a founderof Toyota Motor Corporation.
While once focused solely on advancing science technology and industry previously, we change our researchas the fundamentals of the well-being of mankind and the sustainability of Earth for 21st century, extending
our exploration beyond human species and Earth to the vast expanse of the universe.

Dreams envisioned by Toyota Konpon Research Institute arefocused on the future of mankind.

To mark this new beginning of our , we are renaming ourselves the TOYOTA KONPON RESEARCHINSTITUTE, INC., adopting the globally-recognized TOYOTA name with the aim of attracting a diverse
group of the world s top researchers

Research what to researchMissionInheriting our foundational ideals and actualizing
our mission in alignment with the evolving times
27 years have passed since the founding of our Institute. As science andtechnology continue to advance, the Toyota Group's business has expanded
beyond automobiles to encompass mobility, social systems, and carbon
neutrality. It is essential that we adopt business practices that prioritize bothhumanity and the Earth. In today's rapidly changing society, our Institute's
founding mission̶conducting research to identify signiﬁcant research themes̶
is gaining greater importance. To fulﬁl this role eﬀectively, the Toyota Konpon
Research Institute is actively pursuing a substantial evolution.

Fly over knowledge watersheds

VisionNatural science Humanities
FusionScienceTechnology
Engineering

Knowledge
Knowledge of
exploration

Knowledge of socioeconomic value
for future humans and the EarthDevil River

Death Valley

Darwinian Seasknowledge
watersheds
Basic research

Advanceddevelopment
Research and development

Toyota Konpon Research InstituteProduct
development

Research and development

Industrialization

Research and development

Toyota Group

Three Pillars to Realize our Vision
Explore and investigate
future research themes

03

Increase interest in science andenhance scientiﬁc literacy

Develop human resources
who can connect withdiverse researchers

27 years have passed since the Institute was founded in 1996. In response to the dramatic changes taking placein the world today, Toyota Konpon Research Institute has begun to evolve its role into becoming a knowledge watersheds.

Three top executives discuss the concept of a knowledge watersheds,
as well as the future form envisioned for the Institute.
04

Noboru Kikuchi × Takeshi Uchiyamada × Hiroyasu Watanabe

Uchiyamada Genesis Research Institute was established in
1996, right around when I was developing the Prius. The
Institute was founded with the purpose of going back to
the roots of things and conducting research to identify
signiﬁcant research themes for the future of mankind. Do
you remember what you were doing back then?
Kikuchi I was working as a researcher at a university in
the United States. I remember a conversation I had one
day with Tokuta Inoue, who was instrumental in startingup the Genesis Research Institute and later became its
President. He told me that they would work for something
related to social systems. Then he also continued theywould go back to the Edo Period, which had a circular
economy, to think about recycling. I was surprised thatpeople at Toyota thought that way.
Watanabe At that time, I was also in North America,
where I had been seconded to a company as a productionengineer. I remember reading an article on how Eiji
Toyoda and Shoichiro Toyoda had decided to take a step
forward by considering what they should do for thesurvival and happiness of mankind and the permanence of
the Earth. This article left a strong impression on me, as
did the name of the Genesis Research Institute.
Uachiyamada For the future of mankind, the Instituteprepared its own experiment facilities and launchedresearch on the extremely advanced theme of cluster
science. It used to be thought that the properties of any
substance̶be it hydrogen, iron, or another substance̶
would be the same regardless of how many atoms
gathered. However, when the number of atom clusters
increased, their properties do not change proportionally;
instead, these properties alter as if they underwent a
sudden mutation. Researchers have become eager todiscern the cause of this unexpected shift and delved into
the nature of clusters to uncover speciﬁc properties,
thereby paving the way for expanded applications. In fact,
his research is currently being applied to automotive
catalysts of the Toyota Group.
Kikuchi At that time, the word cluster was not acommon word, so focusing on clusters was a novel
concept. Although more than 25 years have passed since
the Institute was established, we remain true to ourphilosophy of not only learning new science from outside,
but also using that knowledge to look toward the futureand explore the genesis.

Establishing a Toyota Konpon Research Institute Model,
discovering new knowledge to connect with society

Uchiyamada Without a doubt, the time has come toreconsider what we must do to achieve this unchanging
founding philosophy. In the ﬁrst place, the role of theGenesis Research Institute was to communicate themeaning of conducting such research to others. Oncethe research was recognized worthy, the Instituteentrusted the subsequent tasks to the Toyota Central
R&D Labs and other Toyota Group companies andbegan to seek the next. However, as the level ofresearch at the Toyota Central R&D Labs, Toyota
Group companies, and universities has improved, theInstitute needs to evolve its ways.
Watanabe Everyone involved discussed what actions
Toyota Konpon Research Institute must take for the
future and formulated the three main pillars: explore
and investigate future research themes,
increaseinterest in science and enhance scientiﬁc literacy, anddevelop human resources who can connect withdiverse researchers. One of the speciﬁc measures toachieve these goals is the creation of opportunities.
Given the modest size of our institute, it is essential toforge connections with numerous researchers tocollaboratively innovate. We require many individuals
to engage in our research and guarantee theimplementation of results within society. As we embark
on the next phase, we aim to foster opportunities for

The world s challenges are not uniform.
Therefore, it is necessary to provide opportunities
for a diverse array of research ﬁelds to cooperate.
those dedicated to shaping our future society toconnect through science.
Uchiyamada Creating opportunities is exactly what wene e d t o d o no w . F o r e x a mp l e , a s To yo t a Mot or
Corporation has begun transforming into a mobility
company that realizes freedom of movement for all,the group companies are also beginning to consider theentire social system of transportation and logistics. Up
until now, when searching for the next research anddevelopment theme, we had thought about future needs
as an extension of the past. However, going forward, it
will become necessary to consider matters from theperspective of goals. We will see beyond the mountaincalled the knowledge watersheds which exists at the
top of the process where science reaches social

05

implementation. As scientists pursue the truth, we must
identify research themes to be practically implemented
for the beneﬁt of society and bring those themes to thisside of the mountain. Tough phases known as Devil
River,
Death Valley and Darwinian Sea will lie
ahead of our research, but the drawing something fromthe world of science is our founding mission to
conduct research to identify signiﬁcant research
themes. Creating opportunities is one importantmeasure necessary for us to become good explorers inthis way.
Kikuchi Just as dramatically diﬀerent properties are
suddenly exhibited when a cluster of multiple atoms
gathers, 1+1 may no longer equal 2 when multiple
research studies of A, B, C, etc., come together. Unlike
atoms, no two researchers are the same! In a time when
the world's challenges are not uniform but exceptionallydiverse, I ﬁrmly believe that innovative solutions canemerge through the synthesis of diverse perspectives
from various ﬁelds of wisdom.
Uchiyamada You raise a very important point. In Japan,
there are many activities to deepen mutual
understanding within each academic society, but
overseas, there has been considerably moreencouragement for researchers from diverse ﬁelds tocollaborate in new research compared to Japan. We
aim to develop such collaboration within our own
eﬀorts.
Kikuchi Another important point is scientiﬁc literacy. In
the past, Japan was described as a science andtechnology-oriented nation, and citizens wereinterested in science. Nowadays, science andtechnology have advanced so much that people are
overloaded with information. It seems that many
people, except researchers, do not view things from ascientiﬁc perspective. Leading companies like TOYOTA
must serve as catalysts in enhancing scientiﬁc literacy,
enabling people to comprehend the utilization ofscientiﬁc and technological knowledge, along with its
impact on both the environment and society.
Uchiyamada That s exactly right. Indeed, scientiﬁcliteracy is one of the three pillars, and the mostfundamental.

Watanabe In order to solidify these three pillars, I believethat the Toyota Konpon Research Institute must ﬁrmly
connect with academia and raise the level of science.
Uchiyamada To do so, we need to improve the level ofresearch coordinators who conduct research to identify
signiﬁcant research themes, thereby enabling
discussions with cutting-edge researchers. For example,
we have mid-level R&D personnel from the Toyota
Central R&D Labs and Toyota Group companies
seconded to the Toyota Konpon Research Institute. At
the Institute, they work as research coordinators andgain experience in researching scientiﬁc ﬁelds whilebuilding a wide network. Upon returning to theirrespective companies, their experience will serve toplan and promote their research. We would like tocreate such a positive cycle between the Toyota
Konpon Research Institute and each group company.

Kikuchi I would also like to assist researchers inacademia. In Japan, there are academics doing
extremely original research; for example, studying
whether the dynamics of an octopus s legs may be able
to infer better answers than deep learning. However, it
is diﬃcult to translate such research into value forsociety, which is a great waste. Involvement by the
Toyota Konpon Research Institute will be able toencourage and assist such researchers in the production
and promotion to have their outstanding ideas acceptedby society. It would be great if such eﬀorts could leadto broadening the perspectives of researchers anddeveloping research areas.
Uchiyamada As a commissioned research project, weseek to couple multiple for deepening research in acertain ﬁeld or to research something completely new.
From among these research themes, we will identify
those which are likely to lead to social implementationand entrust those themes to other researchers. I'm very
excited that, beyond the scope of business of the
Toyota Group, we may identify several themes which
need to be addressed in the future for the beneﬁt ofsociety. Although I won t be bold enough to pronounce
that we will immediately introduce our research on a
global scale, I look forward to establishing a form of
research known as the Toyota Konpon ResearchInstitute Model in Japan and implementing that model
until we receive a positive response.

06

Activities of Toyota Konpon Research Institute 1

Exploration Program

Yoshio Ishiguro

Miho Hatanaka

Kosuke Fujishima

Associate Professor,
Interfaculty Initiativein Information Studies,
The University of Tokyo

Associate Professor,
Department of Chemistry,
Faculty of Science andTechnology, Keio University

Associate Professor,
Earth-Life Science Institute,Tokyo Institute of Technology

Yu Kosaka

Developing and advancing systems to cultivate future
research themes by collaborating with academia

Tetsuya
J. Kobayashi

Associate Professor,
Research Center for Advanced
Science and Technology,
The University of Tokyo

Tomoko Isomura
Associate Professor,
Department of Cognitive andPsychological Sciences,
Graduate School of Informatics,
Nagoya University

Associate Professor,
Institute of Industrial
Science, The Universityof Tokyo

The Toyota Konpon Research Institute takes on the challenge of establishing new systems for creating signiﬁcantthemes to research for the future.

■Framework of research theme creation
Which mountain should I choose from the mountain range?
・Activities that look across the vast research ﬁeld
and discover an unexplored, cutting-edge, and interdisciplinary research theme
Exploration
・Period: 1 year
No. of researchers: Up to 30

Are there any precious gemstones in that mountain?

・Activities to verify, evaluate, review, and determine
research themes discovered through exploration
Investigation ・Period: Up to 3 years
Cost: 40 million yen/case/year
No. of projects: Up to 6 per year

Exploring and investigating research themes require broad insight, deep expertise, and diverse perspectives. There are limits to activities
that rely on the abilities of individual researchers. In exploration, we invite researchers engaged in cutting-edge research from a variety
of ﬁelds. Through discussions with these researchers, we work to discover unexplored research themes from many perspectives.
In investigation, we conduct commissioned research to verify the true value of themes discovered through exploration.

Atsushi J Nagano

Ayuko Hoshino

Naoya Takeda

Professor,
Faculty of Agriculture,
Department of Plant
Life Sciences, Ryukoku
University

Associate Professor,
Department of Life Science
Technology,
Tokyo Institute of Technology

Associate Professor,
School of Biological andEnvironmental Sciences,
Kwansei Gakuin University

Nine research advisors responded to a summons by the research coordinator※Information on aﬃliation and position are provided at the time of appointment as research advisor.

STEP 1E x p lo r a t ion Prog ram (ﬁscal 2022)

Meet-up

We invite researchers who are active in academia in a variety of ﬁelds to serve as research advisors, and conduct programs todiscuss interdisciplinary themes based on cutting-edge research achievements. Research coordinators at Toyota Konpon
Research Institute fulﬁll the role to connect research advisors.

■ Taking up challenges and creating research themes from an unexploredinterdisciplinary ﬁeld that integrates three ﬁelds
A wide range of scientiﬁc ﬁelds are progressing in the academic world. Therefore, in ﬁscal 2022, wedeﬁned three exploration areas: 1) science of intelligence/intellect (mathematical science + information
science), which is a foundation supporting other research ﬁelds, 2) life science, which provides insight
into the workings of life and the natural world, and 3) science of matter/materials, which will lead totechnologies that beneﬁt society. Research advisories were selected from each scientiﬁc area inacademic. Based on the results of surveys mainly from public information and recommendations frompeople with experience as university director posts, we have invited researchers who are expected to
fulﬁll an active role in the future to serve as research advisors.

■ 1st Workshop Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, Hall A (Nagoya)
The workshop was held at the Toyota Commemorative
Museum of Industry and Technology, which is the birthplaceof the Toyota Group. All nine research advisors participatedin the workshop, which featured lively discussion based on
the seeds of interdisciplinary research themes brought byeach participant.

Science ofintelligence/intellect
STEP 2
Science ofmatter/materialsLifescience

Workshop＆
IdeathonMeet-upWorkshop＆ Ideathon

Learn about other areas andexpand horizons

Discuss and propose
interdisciplinary themes as a team

Verbalized the theme based on the Heilmeier Catechism.

■ Ideathon On-Line■ 2nd Workshop Midland Hall (Nagoya)In preparation for the contest, participants reﬁned the items clariﬁed at the ideathon.

In order to create interdisciplinary themes by researchers from various ﬁelds, we conduct activities divided into the steps ofmeet-ups as an opportunity for researchers to meet and get to know each other, workshops for starting discussions, ideathons forexchanging opinions on the direction of the theme, and a contest for evaluating the appeal of research.

STEP 2■ Collaboration Work On-Line

Items requiring further clariﬁcation were identiﬁed throughmutual presentation of themes and exchange of opinions.

Interdisciplinary areas challenged
in ﬁscal 2022

■ Steps from exploration to investigation

STEP 1An opportunity for researchers to meet, introduce themselves, introduce their current research themes, anddiscuss research themes they would like to try (three times in total)
The aim of the meet-up is to ﬁnd seeds for new interdisciplinary research themes, using cutting-edge results(achievements) as a springboard.

STEP 3
ProposalContest■ Contest

Screening

STEP 3
Proposal
Adopt

Mutual evaluation by research advisors+ Deliberation by external experts

New
Research
Theme

Entry

ContestResults

Submission of white paper+

presentation video

Mutual evaluation by research advisors+

Deliberation by external experts

Selected “Principles and Limits of Undiscovered Exploration” and one other theme
To start exploration research on the selected theme in ﬁscal 2023.

Adopt

P r o s pe c ts f o r Fi s c a l 2 0 2 3

Presentation

External experts

Pause

Coordinator

Reconsider
Idea

Retry

Spin-off to a national project also possible

07

Decideexploration
theme■ Expanding the exploration area

■ Support for the child-rearing generation

In ﬁscal 2022, we focused on three scientiﬁc areas. In
ﬁscal 2023, we will add the humanities to enable
comprehensive consideration, including the naturalsciences and humanities. In this way, we aim to create
opportunities for more comprehensive and fundamental
exploration of themes.

Many of our research advisors are in the child-rearing generation. There
were cases in which research advisors ended their discussion and left
the workshop early in time to pick up their children from nursery school.
In ﬁscal 2023, we will set up a temporary childcare center at theworkshop venue, with the aim of creating a program where researchadvisors can participate together with their children.

08

Activities of Toyota Konpon Research Institute 2■Report on Activities in Fiscal 2022

Toyota Konpon ResearchInstitute Lecture Series
Providing an opportunity to interact with
fundamental and large-scale knowledge and to
gain a higher perspective.
Toyota Konpon Research Institute plays the key role of bridging Toyota Group companies with knowledge thathas the potential to create new value.

To achieve this goal, we are focusing on activities to enhance scientiﬁc literacy within the Toyota Group.
As part of these activities, we have started the Konpon Research Institute Lecture Series.

Look at the whole picture. Think in a long-term framework.
The areas covered by the lecture series are fundamental science related to "science of matter/materials", "science ofintelligence/intellect" and "life science."
The content of the talks is not deep and narrow targeting a speciﬁc ﬁeld; instead, they focus on looking at the whole picture andthinking over a long time frame.
Through the talks,people from Toyota Group companies are expected to gain new perspectives, to broaden horizons, and toobtain a higher viewpoint.

■ Earth and Planetary Science was selected as the ﬁrst topic of the new initiative.
The ﬁrst lecture series focused on Earth and Planetary Sciences . The talks provided an opportunity for audiences toconsider the fundamentals of the issues that the Toyota Group is currently facing; speciﬁcally, carbon neutrality, Earthresources, and extreme materials design under extreme conditions.

Insight From the Earth

Where Do We Come From?
Where Are We Going?

Conducted via a hybrid method of on-site + on-line

Day

1Plate Tectonics and Material
Circulation Within the Earth

Day

2

Earthʼs Iron and CoreDay

3

Birth and Evolutionof the Earth

Tuesday, August 30
At Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry
and Technology,

Wednesday, October 12
At Toyota Physical and Chemical ResearchInstitute(co-hosted by TPCRI)

Wednesday, November 23
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry andTechnology (open to the general public)

Material circulation throughout the Earthsystem closely related to carbon neutrality
C O 2 wa s o n c e t h e m a i n c o m p o n e n t o f t h e
atmosphere. Why has the amount of CO 2 now
plummeted to just 0.04%? The key to solving
large changes in the atmosphere lies in plate
tectonics (the theory of movement of plates
covering the Earthʼs surface). The movement ofplates not only causes earthquakes, volcanica c t i v i t y , a n d c o n t i n e n t a l g r ow t h , b u t a l s otransoports materials from the Earthʼs surface toits depths. In this talk, Professor Hirose explained
the role of plate tectonics within the Earth, andthe evolution of the Earth brought about by platemovements (such as the removal of CO 2 , which
was the main component of the early Earthʼs
atmosphere).

Distribution and origin of Earth resources,
and creation of materials under ultra-highpressure

Water is the key to climate and life,and Earth's magnetic ﬁeld has a major
impact on communication technology.

Now that scientists have acquired the technology
to design a variety of materials,can we say that weunderstand the complete picture of materials?
For example, consider iron, which is one of the
Earthʼs major elements after oxygen, magnesium,and silicon. Where does iron exist on the Eartha n d i n w h a t fo r m ? A l s o , w h a t ro l e d i d t h ephotosynthesis by living organisms play in theformation of iron ore? Furthermore, what werethe environmental conditions for the formation of
the highly electrically and thermally conductive
post-perovskite structural phase discovered in thiscentury? In this talk, Professor Hirose exploredthe potential of the materials that exist on Earth.

It is said that the Earth was formed through themagma ocean formation due to giant impacts.
Where does evidence of this major event
remain on the Earth? Earth is known as the“ wa t e r p l a n e t ” ̶ h ow m u c h wa t e r d o e s t h eEarth have and where is that water now? Unlike
Mars, how has the Earth been able to maintainits magnetic ﬁeld and oceans? In this talk,Professor Hirose introduced the latest research
results to answer such questions about the
Earth from the past to the present, andexplained how the future Earth has thepotential to evolve.

Number of registered participants：6 4 4

Number of registered participants：7 3 8

Number of registered participants：579〈Feedback from participants〉〈Feedback from participants〉〈Feedback from participants〉

The fragmented knowledge about the Earthwas explained in an easy-to-understandmanner as part of the overall system.

I learned about the mechanism
by which the abundance ratios of elements differ
between the Earth's surface and deep underground.

Through comparisons with Mars and Venus,
I realized once again that the Earth is a rare
entity and exists in an exquisite balance.

I was surprised to learn that plate tectonics
is related to the ﬁxation of CO2.

I was excited by the vast scale covered by the
talk. It is an unexpected fact that leap seconds
are caused by the electrically conductive
crystal structure of the lowermost mantle.

I realized how little we actually know about
the Earth beneath our feet.

Speaker

Kei Hirose

Professor(Specialty: High Pressure Earth Science)
Department of Earth and Planetary Science,
Graduate School of Science,
The University of Tokyo
The First Director of the Earth-Life
Science Institute of Tokyo Instituteof Technology, one of the World
Premier International ResearchCenter Initiative (WPI)■Prospects for Fiscal 2023
We received feedback asking for more talks thanjust one series per year.
In ﬁscal 2023, we will hold three science series
related to "matter," "intellect" and "life," with theaim of further heightening the inquisitive spiritof the audience.

■Books for the general public
What is Found When Digging Deeper into the Earth?
Kawade Yume Shinsho Publishing, 2022
Contents of the Earth̶Whatʼs Inside, Whatʼs Happening?
Kodansha Bluebacks Publishing, 2022
The Brand New Earth: Conditions for the Birth of Life
Iwanami Science Library, 2015

Authored by Kei Hirose
Kodansha Publishing

09

10

Final Research Report

Basic Research in Cluster
Science

Notable results achieved by the Genesis Research InstituteEstablishment of cluster ﬁxation method on solid surfaces (applied research)

Cluster science is a new concept research ﬁeldthat the Genesis Research Institute decided topursue immediately after being established.

The generation and reaction of clusters in experiments is performed while clusters are ﬂoating in a vacuum, but clusters must
be taken out of the vacuum for application in the real world.However, because clusters have a large surface area relative totheir volume, they quickly aggregate into bulk due to how atoms and molecules tend to stabilize by reducing their surface
energy. In order to prevent aggregation into bulk and maintain the size and properties of clusters, we established two
methods for stabilizing clusters by supporting them on solid surfaces.

■ Zeolite ﬁxed catalyst■ Semiconductor ﬁxed catalyst

After using the Coulomb force to electrically adhere positively-charged clusters to negatively-charged acidsites within the zeolite pores, we perform heat treatment to strengthen the bonds.We use the Coulomb
force to stick positively-charged clusters to negatively-charged acid sites in zeolite pores, then heat themto strengthen the bonds.After using the Coulomb force to electrically adhere positively-charged clusters tonegatively-charged acid sites within the zeolite pores, we proceed with heat treatment to fortify the bonds.

We ﬁx clusters by utilizing the property in which silicon (Si) existing in thesemiconductors materials and silicon in silicon carbide (SiC) bonds strongly
with platinum (Pt).

Cluster catalyst

The cluster science is the research ﬁeld originating from 'molecule assemblies', which were recognized in the early 1980s as

Pt cluster

hindrances preventing experiments for molecular structures. Now called clusters, these molecular associations are an order

Localized electrons(improved reactivity)
Platinum clusters are ﬁxed
on the surface of semiconductors
using covalent bonding,which is the strongest bonding
force among substances

Heat treatment to ﬁx
clusters in zeolite pof magnitude smaller than the 10 to 100 nm ultraﬁne particles that were being researched at the time. There have been
advancements in research on cluster properties and the detection/measurement methods which form the basis for cluster

Both exhibit high heat
resistanceores

science research. In the late 1990s, expectations began to grow for further elucidation of the mechanism and applications of

Semiconductor SiC

clusters. The Genesis Research Institute was established around the same time with the aim of conducting research to identify

signiﬁcant research themes. For the Institute, cluster science was the perfect ﬁeld to begin with. Professor Tamotsu Kondow, adistinguished expert who laid the groundwork for cluster science research in Japan, has been appointed to the Toyota
Technological Institute. Concurrently, we have inaugurated the East Tokyo Laboratory, amalgamating it with the Cluster【Application】
FC electrode catalyst【Application】
Exhaust gas puriﬁcation catalyst

Research Laboratory at the Toyota Technological Institute, to commence our research endeavors.

Research results that contributed to both academia and industrial applications
Cluster research has continued for 26 years from 1997 to 2022. We have achieved many results through our approach from boththe academic side, which examines the essence of phenomena, and the application side, which helps society and industry.

■ Academic results (by those who enrolled from AY1997 to AY2022)
Awards:Presentations at academic conferences:

395 7 1000
28 8
Patents:

213
374
Overseas seminars: 47
Domestic seminars: 84
Overseas visitors:

Presentations at international academic conferences:

Domestic visitors:

Adheredmolecules

2

3

1 Encyclopedia of Physics Editing Committee, Chairman Jiro Maki, Maruzen Publishing

2 The Chemical Society of Japan, Maruzen Publishing4

On the other hand, we use theoretical calculations in quantum
chemistry to determine which structure absorbs light at whichenergy level. We identify the structure by comparing
experimental results with theoretical calculations. Our
experiments clariﬁed that a cobalt trimer cluster consisting of
three cobalt atoms changes its own structure and causes an
NO adsorption reaction. By applying this observation method
to understanding the intermediate states of various chemical
reactions, we can expect application to catalyst design.

This structure

Clustercomplex

Metal
cluster

Absorption
intensity bytheoretical
calculation

Freezing bycollisionBooks:

1Liquid helium
cluster
5

6

7

Laser
spectroscopy

Wave number/cm -1

8

Co-authored by Tamotsu Kondo and Fumitaka Mafune, SHOKABO
Authored by Tatsuya Tsukuda, Science-Sha
Edited by Tamotsu Kondo, authored by Masahiro Kotani, Seiichiro Koda, and Kiyohiko Someda, Tokyo Kagaku Dozin
8 Edited by Akira Sugano, Tamotsu Kondo, and Koji Kaya, Kodansha Scientiﬁc
5

6

3 Practical Dictionary of Catalysts Editing Committee / Editor, Kogyo Chosakai Publishing

4 Co-authored by Tamotsu Kondo and Masahiko Ichihashi, SHOKABO

11

382
595
Academic conference sponsorships/planning projects: 23
Presentations at international conferences:

We have developed a method to analyze the structure atintermediate stages of chemical reactions in which clusters andmolecules combine to form composite clusters. We opticallyobserved the transition state of the reaction between cobalt clusters
and nitric oxide (NO) molecules. In the analysis method, we startby adhering NO molecules to metallic cobalt clusters of diﬀerent
sizes (diﬀerent number of atoms), and then freezing the cobalt
clusters by colliding them with helium clusters. Next, we irradiate
the clusters with lasers of various wavelengths (energy) andexperimentally measure which wavelengths of light are absorbed.

7■ Results of industrial application■ A bridge to the future

In 2002, we launched an automobile catalyst
cluster research project with the Advanced
Material Engineering Division of Toyota
Motor Corporation. We clariﬁed the eﬀect ofcluster size (number of atoms) on catalyst
performance. Exhaust gas catalysts that use
these research results have been installed in
vehicles since 2014 This has signiﬁcantly
reduced the proportion of precious metals
used in catalysts. Furthermore, in June 2020,
we transferred the technology for cluster
catalysts ﬁxed in zeolite pores.

The achievements of the Konpon Research Institute include the production ofhighly-skilled human resources. Researchers who worked at the East Tokyo
Laboratory are currently leading research in the ﬁeld of cluster science in termsof both academia and industrial application at research institutes in Japan sleading universities and companies, including the University of Tokyo andKyushu University. The Institute also fostered human resources by acceptinginternships and providing support for degree acquisition.
■Main researchers produced by the Konpon Research Institute・Professor Akira Terasaki, Dean of Graduate School of Science, Kyushu University
・Fumitaka Mafune, Professor, Dean of Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and College of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo？ What is a cluster?
All matter consists of atoms. A cluster is an ultraﬁne particle with a diameter of 1 nm or less that is made up of several
to about 1,000 atoms. Clusters exhibit physical properties that are diﬀerent from those of molecules that exist stably andthose that are visible in size (bulk). In particular, small clusters consisting of several atoms are characterized by rapidchanges in properties, such as the presence or absence of magnetism due to a diﬀerence of just one atom.
■Graph of the number of atoms and reactivity■Differences between atoms and clusters
Science based on clusters

Science based on atoms

Atom

MoleculeSolid

The periodic table serves as adesign guideline.

Cluster
Possesses speciﬁc properties(chemical reactivity,
optical properties, magnetic
properties, electrical properties,
thermal properties, etc.)

Cluster complex
Discover the design
guidelines.

Magnetic moment per atom(μB)

Papers and reviews:

Optical observation of cluster structure during chemical reactions [basic research]

Dimer and trimer clusters
are ferromagnetic

Ferromagnetic

Magnetism of manganeseclusters（Mn n+）
Bi-stable

Antiferromagnetic

Solid manganese isanti-ferromagnetic

Cluster size (n )・Jun-Ya Kohno, Professor, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Gakushuin University

12Final Research Report
Research
Frontline

01

Research
Frontline

Establish a hydroponic method to increase crop yields and discover
the effectiveness of hydroponic cultivation for medicinal plants

03

Research on promoting plant utilization

Research on humans and society

Research period: 2012 to 2022

Implementation period: 2015 to 2022

Principal researchers: Yasuhiko Komatsu (2012 to 2017), Masatoshi Matsuda (2012 to 2021), Masahiro Horikawa (2018 to 2020), and Satoshi Kondo (2021 to 2022)

Principal researchers: Nobuo Okumura (2015 to 2016), Kazuhiko Yamamoto (2017 to 2022)

Collaborative researchers: Kiwamu Minamisawa (Professor of Tohoku University, 2012 to 2021), Shusei Sato (Professor of Tohoku University, 2020 to 2021),

Collaborative researchers: Toshio Inui (Professor of Otemon Gakuin University, 2015 to 2019), Katsumi Watanabe (Professor of Waseda University, 2015 to 2022),

Ryo Akashi (Professor, University of Miyazaki, 2012 to 2021)

Masamichi Sakagami (Professor of Tamagawa University, 2020 to 2022)

Research on promoting the use of plants has focused on soybeans,

medicine component (arabinose) when using hydroponic

We have conducted multifaceted research on humans and society

diﬀerence between the predictions made by the brain and thewhich are important as food, with the aim of increasing yields andcultivation. Hydroponic cultivation is more eﬀective thanwith the aim of always maintaining a healthy mental state andrepresentations obtained through the senses, and that this desire isincreasing food production. In order to improve yields, wecultivation using only water for the weight both of thesearching the direction of brain science that will be reﬂected in

combined with curiosity and reward incentives to determine

conducted research on hydroponic cultivation, symbiotic bacteria

underground part and above-ground part. Furthermore, in

future social systems and new products including artiﬁcial

behavior. Next, through our research on the impact of external(), and superroots of legumes with vigorous roothydroponic cultivation, the eﬀect of using hydro balls (artiﬁcial

intelligence. As a representative example of research conducted toopinions on human behavior, we discovered a tendency among

growth. In hydroponic cultivation, the yield per plant wassoil) and pumice as a culture medium is higher than that of soil.

date, ﬁrst, we found a possibility that physiological states andindividuals to resist conforming to the opinions of others.

signiﬁcantly improved by more than 10 times, and in symbiotic

Preliminary calculations indicate that cultivation in a nutrient

visceral sensations are integrated with emotions in the insula, a part

Nevertheless, we observed that altruistic majority opinions have thebacteria inoculation, the yield was improved by about 20%.

solution utilizing hydro balls yielded an underground part weightof the brain, for decision-making while clarifying the mechanism ofpotential to inﬂuence both opinions and actions. Furthermore, ourIn 2022, we investigated the hydroponic cultivation of other plantsroughly 70 times greater and crude drug ingredients approximately

generating emotions from both the body and the brain. Secondly,

ongoing investigations have explored the human inclination towards

such as medicinal plants in addition to hydroponic cultivation of

50 times greater compared to those obtained from soil cultivation.

we have conducted research for creating a mathematical model

cooperation, even at the expense of personal interests, through thesoybeans. The medicinal plant that we tested was crow dipper

This indicates that hydroponic cultivation, which has been applied

based on the theory that all human behavior desires to minimize thetwo decision-making systems: inductive and deductive.

(

to soybeans, is also eﬀective for medicinal plants.

ternata). We evaluated the weight of the undergroundpart (rhizome) and aboveground part (propagule), and the herbal

Outreach activities

Outreach activities
The inoculation method of symbiotic bacteria (For the purpose of utilizing research on humans and society, we publish materials such as
scientiﬁc reports (Proselfs depend more on model-based than model-free learning in a),

non-social probabilistic state-transition task) and books ((1) What are Emotions in the First

which was eﬀective in improving the yield of soybean grown inPlace? Minerva Shobo Publishing, 2018; (2) Grand Uniﬁed Theory of the Brain, Iwanami

soil, was introduced to the Agriculture & Biotechnology Business

Shoten Publishing, 2020). We passed on the knowledge gained from the research to Toyota

Division of Toyota Motor Corporation and the transfer ofMotor Corporation and Toyota Central R&D Labs, Inc.

technology has been completed.

Research
Frontline

02

Authored by Toshiro Inui
Minerva Shobo Publishing

Research
Frontline

Clarify the interaction between light and matter

04

Engaging in the pursuit of effective disaster countermeasures andunraveling precursor phenomena to facilitate earthquake prediction.

Basic research in optical science

Research in disaster mitigation and Earth science

Implementation period: Compact high-power lasers (2007 to 2021), New material creation using lasers (2014 to 2022)

Implementation period: Disaster mitigation 2012 to 2021 and Earth science 2014 to 2022
Principal researchers: Hiroyuki Isawa (2012to2014), Nobuo Okumura (2015 to 2016), and Hitoshi Kondo (2017 to 2022)
Collaborative researchers: Nobuo Fukuwa, Professor of Nagoya University (2012 to 2021), Yoshiyuki Kaneda, Project Leader of Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science andTechnology (2012 to 2014), Yuji Enomoto, Specially Appointed Professor of Shinshu University (2015 to 2022), Toshiyasu Nagao, Professor of Tokai University (2016 to 2022),
Chihiro Yamanaka, Associate Professor of Osaka University (2017 to 2022), and Hiroyuki Furukawa, Researcher of Institute for Laser Technology (2016 to 2022)

Principal researcher: Tatsuo Inoue (2007 to 2022) Collaborative researcher:Compact high-power lasers
Takunori Taira (Project Professor of Institute for Molecular Science, 2007 to 2021) and Yoichi Sato (Institute for Molecular Science, 2007 to 2021)
Creation of new materials using lasers Ryosuke Kodama (Professor of Osaka University, 2014 to 2022), Norimasa Ozaki (Associate Professor of Osaka University, 2014 to 2022)

As evidenced by the fact that matter and antimatter are created when

Furthermore, by aligning the orientation of individual crystals, we haveSince 2012, we have conducted research in disaster mitigation withwhich are closed study sessions with limited members. Throughstrong light shines into a vacuum, elucidating the interaction between

achieved strength that is 1,000 times greater compared to existing

Nagoya University and the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science andprivately exchanging information among meeting participants, they werelight and matter will lead to understanding matter in this world andmaterials, which have the world s highest strength per unit volume. On

Technology, with the aim of estimating damage and predicting recovery

able to ascertain actual damage and review disaster countermeasures.

creating new matter. For this reason, we have researched the creation

the other hand, even with existing lasers, high energy can be obtainedin the event of a mega-earthquake in the Nankai Trough. Also, in 2014,

In Earth science research, we've formed an Earthquake Precursor Studyof new materials using existing light, while pursuing even stronger andby concentrating the power in an extremely short period of time. When

we started research in cooperation with Shinshu University, TokaiGroup comprising researchers irrespective of any formal joint researchhigher quality light. The ability to realize strong, high-quality lightsuch lasers hit the surface of a material, it generates ultra-high pressure

University, Osaka University, and the Institute for Laser Technology toagreements. Together, we've delved into investigating various(high-power lasers) depends on how eﬃciently the stored energy canequal to or even higher than the pressure inside the Earth, resulting in

conduct research in Earth science to clarify earthquake mechanisms

phenomena potentially linked to earthquakes to verify whether there are

be released. Therefore, we enclosed ytterbium, which is the mostthe reduced distance among atoms composing materials. For example,

with the aim of reducing damage by conducting evacuations andrelationships with earthquakes and to clarify the mechanisms. As aeﬃcient element for storing and releasing energy, in a strong and

we discovered that semiconductor silicon can be turned into metallic

shutting down equipment in advance. In disaster mitigation research,

result, we determined that electromagnetic phenomena were promisingtransparent polycrystalline ceramic that can withstand high energy.

silicon, and carbon such as graphite can be turned into diamonds.

Using the Earth Simulator, we predicted the impact of signiﬁcantin prediction. However, it also turned out that it is diﬃcult to predict

earthquakes and validated an optimal recovery schedule throughearthquakes based on a single phenomenon, and that probabilistic

simulation. We also held

prediction that combines multiple phenomena is necessary.

Outreach activities

i (Information Sharing Meetings),

Outreach activities

We have designed and manufactured a device capable ofgenerating a specialized magnetic ﬁeld to align polycrystalline

In 2021, for disaster mitigation, we worked to have theceramic materials, resulting in a patented technology.

meetings followed by the Industrial Disaster Prevention Study Group

Additionally, we have developed a unique method for generating(organized by the Aichi-Nagoya Resilience Co-Creation Center), which

ultra-high pressure and measuring the microstructure of materials

discloses information and discusses initiatives. In 2022, in order to attract theundergoing pressure-induced changes. Our eﬀorts will continueinterest of many researchers in research on the antecedent phenomena of

to advance this technology to search themes in the ﬁeld ofearthquakes, we conducted research with a focus on presenting papers andmaterials science.
Simulation of metal surface deformation by laser

13

Elucidate the mechanisms of emotions and behavior to protect the futureof the zhuman heart and humanity

publishing enlightenment book.

1

1

2

3

4

2 Authored by Nobuo Fukuwa, Jiji Press, Ltd.

3 Authored by Toshiyasu Nagao, Business-sha Co., Ltd.
4

Edited by Yuji Enomoto, Supervised by Toyota Konpon ResearchInstitute Inc., Maruzen Publishing14

Final Research Report
Research
Frontline

05

Research
Frontline

07

Obtain new knowledge about coexistence with the Earth through analysis ofsymbiotic mechanisms of plants

Take on challenges in the synthesis of new antibiotics that will savehumanity and in molecular design using information science

Analysis of symbiosis mechanisms in plants (rhizobia and mycorrhizal fungi)

Advanced biomass utilization and drug discovery

Implementation period: 2022 to 2023 (planned) Principal researcher: Satoshi Kondo

Implementation period: 2019 to 2022

Collaborative researchers: Naoya Takeda (Professor of Kwansei Gakuin University, 2022 to 2023), Akira Akamatsu (Assistant Professor of Kwansei Gakuin University,

Principal researcher: Jun Hasegawa

2022 to 2023), Atsushi J. Nagano (Project Professor of Keio University, 2022 to 2023), Taro Maeda (Project Research Associate of Keio University, 2022 to 2023)

Collaborative researcher: Hitoshi Kasai (Professor of Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials, Tohoku University, 2019 to 2022)

Eﬀective utilization of symbiosis in nature (rhizobia: nitrogenplants other than legumes, and on root networks(underground

It is said that the number of deaths due to drug-resistant bacteriaon the eﬀectiveness of machine learning to develop unknown new

supply, mycorrhizal fungi: phosphorus supply) is expected to help

intercellular communication) through mycorrhizal symbiosis.

against which antibiotics are ineﬀective will surpass the number ofdrugs using HB. The key to development is translating the structuresolve the environmental and energy problems caused by the large

In 2022, we conducted single-cell analysis of the model plant

cancer deaths and reach 10 million people a year by 2050. Theof the molecule into symbols, or descriptors that are recognized by(leaves) as a preliminary step to single-celldevelopment of new drugs is one of the most pressing issues. The

computers. We proposed a concise descriptor that identiﬁes the

input of chemical fertilizers (nitrogen, phosphorus).
Scientists have identiﬁed and analyzed important symbiotic genes.

analysis of the symbiotic root (mycorrhiza) of.

molecule hygrophorone B (HB) contained in hygrophous species has

branching parts of the molecule. Speciﬁcally, we converted the

However, the target of past research has been at the level of

We found seven types of cell groups were in leaf cells, and also

the potential as a new drug, but only trace amounts can be

structures of 12,000 molecules, for which there is experimental data

organs such as roots, and there are still many aspects of thesucceeded in identifying phloem cells, myrosin cells, and S cells.

collected. We succeeded in chemically synthesizing HB for the ﬁrst

on antibacterial eﬀects into these descriptors and conducted

symbiotic mechanism which remain unknown. Our research

We published the results in Plant Cell Physiol. 64(2):234‒247

time in the world by establishing a unique synthesis route frommachine learning. Based on the results, we identiﬁed two types offocuses on the cell and tissue level. Through RNA-sequencing(2023) doi:10.1093/pcp/pcac167.

cyclopentenone, a raw material made from glucose. With thecandidate molecules that had not been previously noticed as

analysis, we seek to gain knowledge on the mechanism ofcooperation of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, weantibiotic. Through experiments to conﬁrm the antibacterial eﬀects

symbiosis, as well as on for application of root nodule symbiosis toevaluated HB and were able to conﬁrm that it is more eﬀective thanof these molecules, their potential was clariﬁed for eﬃcient new

existing antibiotics. Furthermore, we conducted exploratory researchdrug discovery.

Root nodule symbiosis

Legumes - Rhizobia

Arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis

Future developments

Plants - Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi

Photosynthetic products

Outreach activities

In 2022, based on the conditions for isolating single cells(protoplasts) of(leaves), we established conditions

for isolating protoplasts from symbiotic roots ofArbscule

Root nodule. In

2023, we will examine cell puriﬁcation conditions and attempt
single-cell analysis of the symbiotic roots of

Nitrogen

Mutualistic plant-microbe interactions

We have applied for a patent on the chemical synthesis method
for new antibiotics and published a paper on the method. We
were also able to conﬁrm the eﬀectiveness of the design method

Phosphorus

using machine learning, so we completed this research by.
Root nodule
symbiosis

Successful chemical
synthesis

Mycorrhizal
symbiosis

Cyclopentenone(synthesized from glucose)

publishing our ﬁndings in a paper to make it widely useful for the

Hygrophorone B12development of the drug ﬁeld.

Research
Frontline

06

Explore new possibilities created by the fusion of matter/materials, life,
the science of intelligence/intellect, and optical science
Cutting-edge science from the perspective of light
Implementation period: 2022 to 2023 (planned)
Principal researcher: Jun Hasegawa

Continuing to carry on the work of ourpredecessors with gratitude and new hope

Collaborative researcher: Takunori Taira (Specially Appointed Professor of Institute of Molecular Science, 2022 to 2023)

Jun Hasegawa

Light has existed since the birth of the universe and has always

science of matter/materials

been at the forefront of science. For example, ancient Greeks

Compact, high-power laser materials to accelerate laser fusion research.

studied why light made it possible to see things. In modern

Life sciencetimes, scientists are investigating whether light is a wave or a

By using laser light for which we can freely control the direction of vibration,

particle. From the perspective of light, we are conducting a

elucidate the mystery that all protein molecules in living organisms are

In 1996, the Genesis Research Institute was established to be at the forefront of the Toyota group. Looking at documents from thetwo-year research project to investigate cutting-edge

composed of speciﬁc optical isomers.

time, it appears that advice was sought not only from the top of the group but also from academia, and there was heatedtechnologies and topics in science of matter/materials, life

Elucidate and treat pain through research on the stimulus response of nerve

science, and the science of intelligence/intellect, and to ﬁnd

cells to holographic light.

discussion on what research themes the Institute should address. I have heard that all members of the Genesis Research Institute,hints for identifying themes to research. In ﬁscal 2022, the ﬁrst

science of intelligence/intellect

year of the project, we collected a wide range of information

Optical detection in the infrared region characterized by high thermal noisefrom the principal researcher s personal network, international

using phase-aligned coherence light and wavelength conversion materials.

conferences, and other literature, and found out the following

Use quantum interference of light to detect weak optical signals.

including the president, gathered their own information on appropriate research themes and research partners.

expectations regarding light in each area.

Future developments

the current situation and outlook to complete our researchstudy.

the Edo Period, global environmental conservation, microorganisms, plant utilization, material creation, clusters, and other themes
are still major issues faced by society today. Indeed, these past themes demonstrate the keen insight of our predecessors.
These themes were consolidated into ﬁve areas: cluster science, plant utilization, optical science, human beings and society, andconcrete. In addition to transferring technology to Toyota Motor Corporation, researchers were able to communicate their ﬁndings

Light wave electric ﬁeld

Mass of electron dipole moment
Microdomain
Neutral position

outside of the Toyota group through giving presentations at academic conferences, writing papers, and publishing books. As theabovementioned themes were completed, researchers were able to enter the phase of exploring new themes once again.
The success of these eﬀorts is thanks to everyone who discussed the ideal form of the Genesis Research Institute, our predecessors
who established themes and passed them on to us, academics who provided sincere cooperation, and our colleagues who joined

occur among photons, We will determine which areas
should be targeted for theme exploration and investigate

When looking at past themes, new batteries, hydrogen energy, fuel synthesis, complete recycling based on lessons learned fromdisaster mitigation and Earth science. As new people were placed in charge of these themes, a desire emerged to create something

In ﬁscal 2023, we plan to focus on the interactions that

15

Former Director

us in research eﬀorts. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all of these people.

Polarization
Electric dipole moment

Microdomain alignment→ Optical function

16

As of July 2023

Supporting new research endeavors through an ICT
infrastructure that connects the Toyota Konpon ResearchInstitute with academia,
fostering the exchange of individuals and information.
Researcher

Employees of the Toyota Konpon ResearchInstitute are responsible for collaborating

Research institutewith academia and creating new knowledge.

Company nameToyota Konpon Research Institute Inc.

Established

June 11, 1996

Capital JNY

100 million

Location

Nishi-ku, Nagoya City
Inside the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

Representative
DirectorTakeshi Uchiyamada

President

Noboru Kikuchi

Directors

Tetsuro Toyoda
Hiroyuki Wakabayashi
Morito Oshita
Hirofumi Inoue
Hiroyasu Watanabe

Auditors

Hisaaki Takao
Hirotaka Takeda

Business details

1. Research, investigation, and provision of technical information regarding futuresocial predictions
2. Research, testing, and investigation of humanities and social sciences, natural sciences,and comprehensive technologies based on those sciences
3. Research, testing, and investigation regarding the development and use of science andtechnology, and the resulting eﬀects and impacts
4. Research, testing, surveys, and the training and development of researchers andengineers conducted through mutual contracting or jointly with countries,
administrative agencies, organizations, and research institutions

Shareholders

Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Industries Corporation
Aisin Corporation
Denso Corporation
Toyota Central R&D Labs., Inc.
Aichi Steel Corporation
JTEKT Corporation
Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd.
Toyota Tsusho Corporation
Toyota Boshoku Corporation
Toyota Motor East Japan, Inc.
Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.

History

June 1996
Established the Genesis Research Institute in the Toyota Commemorative
Museum of Industry and Technology in Nishi-ku, Nagoya
May 1997
Opened the East Tokyo Laboratory in the Cluster Research Laboratory of the
Toyota Technological Institute, Ichikawa City, Chiba Prefecture
March 2023
Closed the East Tokyo Laboratory
July 2023
Changed the company name to Toyota Konpon Research Institute in an aim tobecome a research institute where the world s top diverse researchers gather

Note From the
EditorThank you for reading our 2022 Annual Report. This is the

In addition to being able to utilize their own
data, it is essential that these employees
have an environment where they canconnect and interact with various people

University

and information from academia asnecessary. We have introduced a zero-trustmodel to reduce security risks to an evenlower level than before, and have created a
cloud environment and high-speed

Toyota Konpon
Research
Instituteenvironment for stress-free access anytime
and from anywhere.

Hot desking that induces organic
communication
Among diverse and ﬂexible work styles such as telecommuting and ﬂextime
systems, when employees come to work, our Institute uses a hot desking layout
with free seating which enables employees to spend even more creative time byestablishing environments for engaging in lively discussion, freely sharing ideas,
and concentrating quietly. In this environment, research coordinators discuss the
future. Customers from outside the Institute can feel free to stop by and have aconsultation or chat. We will continue to create a workplace where information
is gathered and ideas are spread.

17

ﬁrst time that we have published annual report, and thereport introduces our past eﬀorts and new initiatives.
Going forward, we will continue to raise awareness for our
research institute among more people, broadly recruit
like-minded colleagues, and engage in research that meetsthe needs of the times. We will persist in raising awarenessfor our research institute among an expanding circle ofindividuals, actively recruiting like-minded colleagues, andconducting research that addresses contemporary needs.

18