At the 130th GRIPS Forum on October 30, 2016, Prof. Satoshi Ōmura, Distinguished Emeritus Professor, Kitasato University, gave a lecture titled “Unearthing Beneficial Microbial Compounds: Discovery, Development International Partnerships”.
 

Abstract

Driven by the goal to isolate as many diverse microorganisms as possible which might be beneficial in various ways for improving human lives and livelihoods, Prof. Ōmura has constantly developed novel search systems and sought innovative mechanisms to promote his research and strive to maximize the return on his endeavours. As a result, he has discovered more than 500 new bioactive compounds, many having hitherto unseen or unique structures, with his work creating far-reaching and interdisciplinary benefits worldwide. His discoveries include revolutionary and ground-breaking compounds such as Cerulenin, Staurosporine, Lactacystin, and Avermectin. Focusing on a few of these exceptional compounds, Prof. Ōmura described the background and particulars of their discovery and the role they and his work have played in new drug research, while also commenting on their fundamental contribution to the advancement of medicine and global public health.

Speakers’ Profile:

1958 - 1963    Teacher, Sumida Tech High School (Evening Course)

1963 - 1965    Research Associate, Yamanashi University

1965 - 1971    Researcher, The Kitasato Institute

1968 - 1975    Associate Professor, Kitasato University

1975 - 1984    Professor, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences,

                     Kitasato University

1984 - 1990    Director and Executive Vice President,

                                             The Kitasato Institute

1990 - 2008    Director and President, The Kitasato Institute

1997 - 2003    President, Joshibi University Art and Design (2007 – 2016)

2008 - 2012    President Emeritus, The Kitasato Institute

2013 - Present    Distinguished Emeritus Professor, Kitasato University

2016 - Present    President Emeritus, Joshibi University Art and Design

2016 - Present    Max Tishler Emeritus Professor in Chemistry (Wesleyan University, USA)

Honors:
Person of Cultural Merit (2012),
The Order of Cultural Merit (2015)
Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (2015)

Degree:
Ph.D. – 1968 The University of Tokyo (Pharmaceutical Sciences)
Ph.D. – 1970 Tokyo University of Science (Chemistry)