Keio University Human Biology-Microbiome-Quantum Research Center (WPI-Bio2Q) participated in the 13th WPI Science Symposium.

The 13th WPI Science Symposium, titled “The World Expands Through Science”, gathered approximately 330 participants, including all 18 WPI research centers, poster presenters, selected high school students/teachers and interested individuals. The event featured science talks by young WPI researchers, research poster presentations, and exhibition booths showcasing each WPI center’s work.

In the science talks, three WPI researchers presented their latest research findings under the theme of “What Makes Us Humans”. Dr. Jumpei Sasabe, Jr. PI at WPI-Bio2Q gave a talk entitled “The World of Right- and Left-handed Molecules”, focusing on molecular chirality in the biological world, particularly the relationship between humans and microorganisms.
Lively scientific discussions were exchanged at the poster session by 28 groups of high school students who were selected from all over the country and 18 WPI researchers. These poster presenters and the high school teachers also enjoyed conversation on research and career paths over lunch.

The World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI) was launched in 2007 by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) in a drive to build within Japan “globally visible” research centers that boast a very high research standard and outstanding research environment, sufficiently attractive to prompt frontline researchers from around the world to want to work in them. (quoted from WPI website)