Chemistry and related fields of science has the distinct mission to create new forms of matter that affect
society as well as the tools for their analysis. Society now faces serious issues of human sustainability: food,
energy, water and the environment. These problems require a “systems analysis” approach to chemical
research (i.e. scientists from various chemistry-related fields must cooperate to address multiplex molecular
issues). Such innovative chemistry can change molecular science.
“Emergence” (So-Hatsu, in Japanese) represents creation of features in a multi-component system beyond
the sum of its parts. A systems approach to chemistry inherently fosters “emergence” requiring collaboration
of chemists with different backgrounds. Our plan of intellectual frameworks, so-called “Research & Education
Cluster” (REC), finds a base in this concept. We target “quantum changes” in science and education by
acquiring greater knowledge through integrated pursuit of synthetic and analytical molecular research, which
in turn will foster the young future leaders of molecular science.
The five REC units are (1) biofunctional molecules, (2) photofunctional molecules, (3) environmentally benign
cataly-sis, (4) innovative chemical processes, and (5) nano-functional molecule. Each REC unit involves
roughly 15 people distributed as follows: (i) four to six faculty members at the frontier of synthetic or analytic
chemical research, (ii) top-quality graduate students selected by the COE committee, (iii) young and talented
staff scientists, and (iv) post-docs employed by this program. In each REC unit, the members share and utilize
information to promote dynamic interaction among scientists with different backgrounds, area of expertise,
age, and nationality, thereby aiming at the creation of a new integrated field in chemistry.
Other key features are the strong collaboration with RIKEN in the field of advanced analyses, and enhanced
international exchanges. Cooperation with RIKEN that integrates the human resources and analytical
equipments will further activate the research of both institutes. We plan several programs, including a unique
international exchange system with several overseas universities to motivate the graduate students and
young faculty members.
