Research Environment

ITbM has set up Mix Labs to remove the physical barriers between research groups and to enhance interdisciplinary research across various fields and groups. Unlike traditional labs, where the labs are usually separated according to research groups, the Mix Labs incorporate large spaces, where researchers and students from different backgrounds share the same space and can have discussions on a daily basis. Each PI is in charge of their own research group. Nevertheless, the flexible interaction that exists between different research groups enables dynamic mixing of research that goes beyond the boundaries of conventional frameworks. Using "molecules" as the common keyword has advanced the understanding between different disciplines.

The Mix Labs have played an immense role in advancing collaborative interdisciplinary research at ITbM, as the faculty, postdoctoral researchers and students are able to communicate across different fields and put their research proposals immediately into action. A large number of interdisciplinary research themes have emerged from young researchers in the Mix Labs, and some of the research outcomes have already been released as patents and publications, as well as commercialization of reagents through technology transfer to industries.

The ITbM Research Award was established to promote interdisciplinary research proposed by young researchers working in the Mix Lab. The award provides start-up funding and is granted to outstanding collaborative research projects that are proposed by a team of researchers from different fields, which consist of at least one ITbM researcher (non-PIs). Many of the selected proposals have become representative projects at ITbM.

ITbM's new research building that reflects the Mix Lab concept was completed in March 2015. The building's whole area space is 7,934 m² and is a 6-storied building that consists of two sets of Mix Labs and Mix Offices. The labs and offices make up a 2-layer structure, where the Mix Offices are an open space over the windows that has a good view of the Mix Labs situated below.

The center is also equipped with a kids' room to assist researchers with children, as well as refresh spaces, and a wooden deck in order to enable interactions between members. ITbM Tea break Meetings are held weekly to facilitate communication between members of the institute.

Features of ITbM's research environment

ITbM has established Mix Labs and Mix Offices, where international young researchers from different fields work together in order to accelerate multidisciplinary advances through informal discussions on a daily basis.
ITbM and Nagoya University are well equipped with top-level major instruments necessary for our WPI research. The quality and number of these instruments rivals the best institutions in the world. Expert operators for these facilities provide essential support for ITbM's cutting-edge research.
ITbM has established an effective and efficient administration with English-speaking staff to accelerate the internationalization of the institute as well as the fusion of different research fields.