CiRA marked its 17th anniversary as the 2026 fiscal year began this week. On April 2, Professor Koji Eto, who newly assumed the role of Director on April 1, delivered his inaugural speech to CiRA members.

In his first address as Director, Professor Koji Eto spoke about the organizational restructuring aimed at enhancing development amid the ever-changing research environment. By integrating the Department of Clinical Application and the Department of Cell Growth and Differentiation, he outlined a policy to continue promoting cell therapy, drug discovery, and disease research. Reflecting on the 20 years since the report of mouse iPS cells, he expressed his determination to foster growth for the CiRA community while emphasizing the importance of co-creation through human dialogue.

Koji Eto

Following the Director's address, the three Deputy Directors shared their remarks. Professor Yoko Hamazaki expressed her commitment to providing a nurturing environment for individual growth, while Professor Kenji Osafune discussed the need for modernizing research systems. Moreover, Professor Yasuhiro Takashima stated his intention to strengthen the foundation for innovation.

(From left) Yoko Hamazaki, Kenji Osafune,
and Yasuhiro Takashima

The meeting concluded with aspirations for the new year shared by Assistant Directors: Professors Jun Takahashi, Haruhisa Inoue, and Junya Toguchida, as well as Associate Professor Sayako Katada, who joined CiRA in the fall of 2025.

(From left) Jun Takahashi, Haruhisa Inoue, Junya Toguchida, and Sayako Katada

(From left) Jun Takahashi
and Haruhisa Inoue

(From left) Junya Toguchida
and Sayako Katada

• CiRA's new Organization Chart