[Okayama University] Okayama University Comprehensive Technical Department and the Institute for Molecular Science Hold Joint Training Session - Promoting Advancement of Technical Talent and Strengthening Collaboration to Support Research Infrastructure

On June 12, 2026, the Comprehensive Technical Department of Okayama University (President: Tomohiro Nasu) announced that it held a joint training session for technical staff at the Institute for Molecular Science, National Institutes of Natural Sciences (Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture), on May 22, 2026.

Five members from Okayama University's Comprehensive Technical Department participated, including Division Manager Kakuro Hori, Technical Specialist Isao Yamane, Technical Specialist Tsugumi Shiokawa, Technical Specialist Yuichi Tashiro, and Sci-Tech Coordinator/Specially Appointed Professor Kazumasa Horigane. From the Institute for Molecular Science, Team Leader Toshikazu Nakamura of the Instrument Center, Department Director Eiji Shigemasa of the Technical Promotion Department, and others participated.

At the training session, information was shared regarding research support systems, unique technical operations, operation and maintenance of research equipment, safety management, and human resource development at both institutions. During the morning plenary session, participants exchanged ideas across fields through organizational introductions and technical presentations. In the afternoon, they split into three specialized areas—the Instrument Center, the Device Development Laboratory, and the UVSOR Facility—to visit facilities and conduct technical exchanges.

Going forward, the two institutions will strengthen collaboration through discipline-specific training and general technical exchange meetings. Norihito Sato, Vice Executive Director (Research/Industry-Academia Co-creation), Vice President (Academic Affairs), and Senior URA at Okayama University, stated, "We will effectively implement this collaboration to contribute to the overall improvement of Japan's research infrastructure." Okayama University remains committed to promoting the development of technical talent and advancing technical capabilities through continued cooperation with other institutions.