The International Human Frontier Science Program Organization (HFSPO) has announced that acclaimed Japanese cell biologist Yoshihiro Yoneda will take over as the organisation’s new President. The global life sciences organisation, which supports pioneering interdisciplinary research, confirmed Yoneda’s appointment during its June board meeting in Washington, D.C. He will succeed Shigekazu Nagata, who held the role from 2018 to 2024.
HFSPO, an organisation chartered by the G7 in 1987, is known for supporting bold and groundbreaking scientific research through its Research Grants and Fellowships. It is backed by 16 member countries, along with the European Commission, and focuses on advancing life sciences through international collaboration. The programme has been instrumental in funding over 4,500 awards, involving more than 8,500 scientists globally, and has been a springboard for 29 Nobel Prize winners since its inception.
Yoneda’s nomination was put forward by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). His appointment was confirmed unanimously by HFSPO’s Board of Trustees.
Pavel Kabat, Secretary General of HFSPO, expressed enthusiasm about Yoneda’s leadership: “We are thrilled to welcome President Yoneda, a pioneer in cellular biology and a science leader who has made significant contributions to key research institutions.”
Yoneda, a Professor Emeritus at Osaka University, currently serves as the President of The Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN Foundation). His distinguished career includes leading Japan’s National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition between 2015 and 2022. He has also played a key role as Director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Nutrition and Physical Activity. Additionally, Yoneda has a longstanding connection with HFSPO, having been awarded two Research Grants by the organisation in 1998 and 2001, which led to critical discoveries in the molecular mechanisms of nucleocytoplasmic transport.
On his appointment, Yoneda expressed his honour at being chosen to lead the organisation. “I am honoured to be entrusted with this important role for such an impactful, global organisation. HFSPO is one of the few organisations in the world focused on creating quantum leaps in scientific knowledge. Through such research, we have the chance to do great things for humanity.”
Yoneda’s predecessor, Shigekazu Nagata, was also lauded for his contributions during his six-year tenure. Kabat expressed deep gratitude to Nagata, stating, “His wisdom and insight have been invaluable during his years of service and dedication to HFSPO at all levels.”
With Yoneda at the helm, HFSPO is expected to continue its legacy of supporting high-risk, high-reward scientific research that pushes the boundaries of life sciences. His appointment is seen as a key step in advancing the organisation’s mission of fostering international scientific collaboration to drive innovation and create significant breakthroughs that benefit humanity.
For more information on HFSPO’s work and its contributions to life sciences, visit the organisation’s official website.
