Japan has got what it takes to become a science-led innovation powerhouse. The combination of a robust primary-through-tertiary education system and globally integrated, highly competitive industrial corporation provides an innovation ecosystem that could be the envy of the world. However, it is unfortunately very clear that, over the past decades, Japan has somehow failed to capitalize on this amazing potential. How did this happen? What can Japan learn from the science and innovation success stories in China, Europe, and America? Will the newfound policy initiatives on science promotion and public-private innovation partnership be enough to catapult Japan back to global top science competitor?

Dr Peter Gruss is one of the most experienced and “hands-on” doers and thinkers in the world of global science and innovation. After a highly successful career as scientist, he was the President of the Max Planck Institute from 2002–2014. He became the President of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and was rewarded for his exceptional service to Japan with the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star. He also was the founding chair of the Siemens Future Innovation board and today serves on several government and science advisory councils.

Please join us for what will be an inspiring session on how sciences, public policy, and corporate leadership drive true innovation.

Event and Registration Details

October 15, 2024, 8:00 – 9:15 a.m. (JST)

• This event will be conducted in in-person and online, and registration is required.
• In-person participation is for members and guests only. Please pay your fee by credit card (Visa or Mastercard only) or at the door.
• Online participation is open to the public and free.

Speaker Bio

Dr. Peter Gruss

Peter Gruss served as the President of the esteemed Max Planck Society from 2002 to 2014 and as President and CEO of OIST from 2017 until the conclusion of 2022. He obtained his Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Heidelberg and holds the title of honorary professor at the University of Göttingen. Additionally, Professor Gruss held the position of Chair of the Siemens Technology and Innovation Council and served on the Supervisory Boards of Siemens, Munich RE, Actelion Pharmaceuticals, as well as on the Advisory Boards of Deloitte and Allianz.

During his tenure as President of the Max Planck Society, he was appointed as a member of the "Innovation Dialogue" of the Federal Chancellery under the leadership of Angela Merkel. Among his numerous accolades are the Leibniz Prize, the Louis-Jeantet Prize for Medicine, the German Prize for Technology and Innovation presented by the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, and the German Federal Cross of Merit. Recently, he was honored with the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star.