科学｜ノーベル賞受賞の北川教授が語る資金の重要性 / Science | Professor Kitagawa, Nobel Prize Laureate, Discusses the Importance of Funding

Summary

Professor Susumu Kitagawa, a special professor at Kyoto University who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, spoke about the necessity of fundamental research and the importance of funding at an official press conference.

He expressed his hope that this award would raise awareness in society about the significance of medical research and noted that there is room for improvement in the environment for fundamental research. His comments underscore the need for support for basic research.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Chako: Hey Log, why does basic research need so much funding?
Log: Well, Chako, basic research underpins new discoveries and technologies. Professor Kitagawa emphasized the importance of funding as well.
Chako: I see! But why isn’t it easier to gather more money for it?
Log: Hmm, it might be because basic research takes a long time to yield results, which makes it a riskier investment.
Navi: To add to that, since basic research doesn’t generate immediate profits, funders tend to be more cautious. This is considered one of the reasons for the funding shortage.
Chako: I get it now; we have to think long-term!

Admin’s Note

Professor Suguru Kitagawa’s press conference served as a reminder of the importance of basic research. In particular, the current lack of funding poses a significant challenge for many researchers. Since basic research serves as the foundation for new discoveries, I felt it is crucial for society as a whole to understand its value and promote the need for support. I hope that this will inspire more people to think about and take action on this issue in the future.