About the Foundation
The Nakatani Foundation is a Japan-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing biomedical engineering. Founded in 1984 by Taro Nakatani, founder of Sysmex Corporation, the foundation is committed to supporting innovation and fostering the next generation of researchers.
Our support includes award programs that recognize excellence in biomedical engineering, and a range of grant programs tailored to different needs, career stages, and academic levels — including research grants, international exchange, scholarships, study abroad, and science education support.
While our programs are primarily intended for Japanese individuals and institutions, some activities may involve international participants through partnerships and invitation-based collaboration.
Our Initiatives
Our activities fall into two main categories: Awards and Grants.
Awards
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Nakatani Award
The Nakatani Award recognizes researchers who have made outstanding contributions to biomedical measurement technologies and related fields. Established in 2008, it highlights excellence in innovation and impact.
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Kobe Prize
In celebration of our 40th anniversary, we launched the Kobe Prize for Biomedical Engineering (BME), a field that integrates life sciences and engineering. The Kobe Prize honors original research that drives innovation in BME and includes both a Grand Prize and a Young Investigator (Y.I.) Award, to recognize emerging leaders in the field.
Grants
Focused initially on Research grants, which are structured with varying funding amounts and durations, tailored to meet the specific goals, career stages, and needs of different researchers. Our grant programs have expanded to emphasize the development of young talent. These include:
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Exchanges Grants
Facilitates international exchange by supporting Japanese researchers to conduct training and research abroad, and by inviting international researchers to Japan.
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Scholarship Grants
Provides financial support for Japanese graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in biomedical engineering.
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Study abroad program
Offers hands-on research and cultural experiences for undergraduate students in STEM fields, both in Japan and the United States.
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Science education grants
Encourages interest in science among elementary, junior high and high school students by supporting programs that spark curiosity and engagement.
Message from the President
At the Nakatani Foundation, we believe that advancing biomedical engineering technologies is essential not onlyfor medical progress but for the broader well-being of society.
Since our establishment in 1984, we have continuously adapted to the evolving needs of society through targeted support — offering research awards, grants, and educational opportunities that help unlock the full potential of individuals at every stage of the scientific journey.
Our focus is not only on technological innovation but also on nurturing people. We support students and young researchers, encourage curiosity from an early age, and promote environments where new ideas can grow.
We see this as our contribution to building a better future — one that values both scientific excellence and fostering future talent.
Yutaka Yatomi, M.D., Ph.D.
President, Nakatani Foundation
Contact
Address
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Nakatani Foundation (Head Office)
8F, Art Village Osaki Central Tower, 1-2-2 Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 141-0032, Japan -
Kobe Office
5F, IHD Building, 1-5-1 Wakinohama Kaigan-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo 651-0073, Japan
More information
More information Please visit our Japanese website for more detailed and updated information.
Feel free to contact us using the inquiry form below.