Message (Greetings from the Director)
The Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics was founded in 1992, extensively reorganized in 2000 and 2009. The research interests of the 30 primary faculty members in the three divisions (Developmental Regulation, Stem Cell Research, and Organogenesis) consisting of 12 departments of the institute span such important areas as: epigenetics, control of regulatory proteins, cellular interactions, DNA damage and repair, ES and iPS cells, mesenchymal stem cells, hematopoietic differentiation, cell fate modulation, liver development, brain morphogenesis, kidney development, genital development, and mouse molecular genetics.
The global Center-of-Excellence (COE) Program (2007-2011), followed by the 21st Century COE Program (2002-2006) in the Institute, entitled Cell Fate Regulation Research and Education Unit , provides outstanding research and educational opportunities for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows who wish to pursue a career in research and education in this field. Students in the program obtain rigorous training in modern biology as well as participating in cutting edge research. The Institute also engages in training programs in both the Graduate School of Medical Sciences and the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences. A special course of Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine has started in the Graduate School of Medical Sciences.
Our overarching goals are to develop scientific understanding in our field, to educate students and young scientists, and ultimately to contribute to the society.
Mitsuyoshi Nakao, M.D., Ph.D.
Director, IMEG
