The Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG) was founded in 1992, and extensively reorganized in 2000 and again in 2009. It is one of the first institutes in Japan that succeeded in generating transgenic and knockout mice. As a prestigious institute located in the southern Japanese city of Kumamoto, we attract many developmental biologists from around the world.

We aim to merge developmental biology with medicine. We believe that a deep understanding of developmental biology is crucial for regenerative medicine. Regenerative medicine is not alchemy. We should reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of various cells, tissues, and organisms, and utilizes the accumulated knowledge to recapitulate the in vivo processes. Working toward this goal, our institute has three divisions (Developmental Regulation, Stem Cell Research, and Organogenesis), and our research interests include chromosome and protein regulation, epigenetics, DNA repair, ES and iPS cells, cell fate specification, cellular communications, hematopoiesis, brain morphogenesis, gametogenesis, and kidney development. To support cutting-edge science, we have a well-organized core facility with numerous shared machines and equipment maintained by a talented support team. This has served as the basis for our achievements in recent years, as well as for the education and growth of our young scientists.

We continue contributing new scientific discoveries from Kumamoto to the global research community by obtaining unique findings based on our own creative ideas. The famous Japanese scientist Torahiko Terada, who studied in Kumamoto more than 100 years ago, said: “You should be smart to be a scientist. However, you should be foolish to be a scientist.” When you are more experienced and gain more knowledge, you will be better at predicting outcomes. However, nature often stays out of your imagination and testing the possibilities that are outside of the range of your expectations could lead you to new discoveries. Additionally, interaction with other scientists at our institute will help to enhance the novelty of your research.

It goes without saying that curiosity drives science, but it is our opinion that you should not use science as a tool. Science is not something we use to simply survive or even to be famous. Science is our goal. As scientists, we contribute to the total accumulation of scientific wisdom for all of humankind but if you perform misconduct, you interfere with the progress of human beings. It is not necessary to obtain fancy results at all times. Instead, you should pursue correct and honest results. When you face a difficult problem, you should choose the way that would contribute to the betterment of mankind even if you do not personally benefit. In other words, love science more than yourself. “To be a scientist, you should love nature as you would your true lover because nature only tells her secrets to her lovers.” -Dr. Terada

Apr 14, 2016

Ryuichi Nishinakamura, M.D., Ph.D.
Director, IMEG, Kumamoto University