【Group photo from left: Specially Appointed Professor Fukamizu, Director Sawa, Advisor to the Director Koyama, Deputy Director Suzuki】

On February 13, 2026, Specially Appointed Professor Akiyoshi Fukamizu of the Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, University of Tsukuba(URL: visited the Institute for Vaccine Research and Development (IVReD), Hokkaido University.

Professor Hirofumi Sawa, Director of IVReD, introduced the overview of IVReD and also ongoing research projects, followed by an exchange of views on current vaccine research and infectious disease control efforts. Discussions also covered how research can advance from basic science to social implementation.

Specially Appointed Professor Fukamizu toured IVReD’s research facilities and experimental environment, showing strong interest in the research infrastructure that supports vaccine development as well as IVReD’s international collaborations. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to explore possibilities for future cooperation.

IVReD will continue to contribute to the development of infectious disease control and vaccine research through collaboration with many research institutions.

【Specially Appointed Professor Fukami listening attentively to the laboratory briefing】