In February 2019, Professor Ken-ichi Yoshida (Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation) was appointed as Japan’s first Ambassador by the Federation of European Microbiological Societies (FEMS). FEMS is an international organization that aims to spread microbiology knowledge in Europe and neighboring regions by providing research funds, publishing academic journals and news articles, holding conferences and supporting education. For the next three years Professor Yoshida will represent Japan in promoting joint research and exchange between microbiologists in Japan and Europe.

Professor Yoshida has served as Executive Director of the Kobe University Brussels European Centre (KUBEC) since April 2014. In this capacity, he has made significant contributions to Kobe University’s outreach activities in Europe, advancing international joint research projects and forming new partnerships by participating in organizations such as the University Informal Liaison Office Network (UnILiON). His new role as an FEMS Ambassador will offer further opportunities to deepen academic collaboration between Japan and Europe.

(right) Executive Director Yoshida speaking at a UnILiON Core Meeting

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