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PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE:
Inaugural Address for The 30th Presidency of
The Society of Polymer Science, Japan
Towards the Sustainable Society
with Continuous Developmentin Human Welfare
Kazunori KATAOKA, President
This year is the 90th anniversary of Dr. Hermann Staudinger’s proposition of the concept of “macromolecule” and “polymerization” in “Berichte der Deutschen Chemischen Geselschaft”. Furthermore, we will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the foundation of the Society of Polymer Science, Japan (SPSJ) in the year 2011. Polymer science has undergone significant progress both in cooperation with industry, and with solid achievements as a fundamental science. Polymers become core materials in our modern society. While Polymer science has been recognized as a field of fundamental science in its own right, it has also opened new multidisciplinary fields integrated with other scientific disciplines.
As a frontier science, it achieves a leading role through fundamental innovation; addressing contemporary, global issues such as the environment, energy, and healthcare and medicine. In the world of advanced materials, the integration of fundamental and applied sciences is accelerating, with open collaboration between universities, research institutions and industry, creating new success drivers. Critically, it is important to nurture and train young scientists and engineers with a broad outlook and a deep knowledge in polymers. Specifically, it is vital to establish an innovative science and technology platform that compliments translational invention and discovery.
At this time of natural reflection, for the next two-year term, the Society of Polymer Science, Japan will promote activities focused on: “Towards the Sustainable Society with Continuous Development in Human Welfare.” In line with this vision, I wish to set the following five objectives in which to direct the SPSJ with its 11,000 members from academia and industry. I will do my utmost to promote collaboration amongst our world community, asking all members to be proactive and positive to envision our new futures. Specifically:1. Enrich an interdisciplinary platform where different cultures integrate: For members who specialize in polymer science and its new possibilities, and scientists and engineers from other fields, we wish to broaden its fascination and potential for future development. This will be facilitated by exchanges that include four major meetings a year (the spring annual meeting; the fall annual meeting; the polymer materials forum; and a summer college). We wish to promote open information exchange amongst all members to direct the SPSJ actively as a melting pot of ‘best in class’ innovation and ideas. 2. Promotion of integrated ties, from fundamental sciences to industrial applications: SPSJ is unique in that approximately 60% of its members work in the industrial sector. This foundation readily enables constructive and collaborative activities for members from academia and industry. 3. Sustainable development of polymer science and technology: Broadening a wider understanding of our science, and fostering better international relations; we can be pioneers in effecting change. The significance of polymers in regard to international science and technology policies will be central to our success. 4. Expansion of common ground with society: While, polymer science is playing an increasingly significant role in science and technology in the broad fields of the environment, resources, energy, healthcare and medicine. However, its real significance tends not to be fully appreciated by the general public, since polymers are applied as various commodity and functionality materials, and are not visible as end consumer products. We must undertake activities that explicitly demonstrate the visible impact of our science. 5. Support for members who have diverse backgrounds: SPSJ as a network will be strengthened by diversity; the multidisciplinary knowledge base of our membership and breadth of experience coupled with different geographical access will provide a coherent foundation to nurture and integrate the young scientific community. I am determined that such coherent approaches are pivotal to the development and thrivability of SPSJ for our futures.
To successfully implement these policies, we will use our board meetings to execute these strategies in a timely fashion. Their symbiotic benefits demand the cooperation and contribution of all our membership. As your new President, I sincerely give my personal commitment, and ask for your positive and proactive commitment to enable SPSJ to effect material change.Kazunori KATAOKA, The 30th President of the Society of Polymer Science, Japan
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