Outline

Welcome Message

We are pleased to announce that the RIKEN BDR Symposium 2026, "Biological Horizons: Innovative Explorations into Life's Mechanisms and Dynamics," will be held from March 2 to 3, 2026, at the RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, in Kobe, Japan.

The symposium is jointly hosted by Grant-in-Aid for Transformative Research Areas (A) "Establishment of pH-responsive Biology" "Integration of Extracellular Information by Multimodal ECM Activity" "Mechanical Self-transformation of Living Systems".

Many advancements in life sciences have been made in the quest to elucidate the biological processes unfolding across life stages from fertilization, development, differentiation, growth, maturation, reproduction, and aging, and spanning multiple scales. The accumulation of extensive research conducted to date has deepened our understanding at various levels, including individual, tissue, cellular, and molecular levels, which has led to the maturation of the life science field and generated numerous innovative discoveries. At the same time, rapid technological innovations have brought new perspectives to existing theories and frameworks, providing an opportunity to redefine conventional interpretations. New measurement, manipulation, and analytical technologies are enabling us to visualize and quantify phenomena that were previously elusive or undetectable, and are redefining the life science field as well as paving the way for entirely new research fields. Looking to the future, the integration of these advanced technologies with multifaceted and interdisciplinary perspectives will be crucial not only to gain a deeper understanding of biological phenomena, but also to freely control and predict their outcome.

This symposium will bring together leading scientists, especially young researchers working on unique and creative ideas and new fundamental technologies, to engage in open and active discussions that transcend disciplinary boundaries. We hope that the symposium will provide a chance to generate new ideas and seeds of research from the intersection of different specialties and perspectives, lay the foundation for interdisciplinary collaboration and future joint research.

Topics will include:
· Emerging paradigms in development: From cells to whole organisms
· Evolutionary innovations shaping morphology and behavior
· Decoding behavior: Advanced circuit mapping from insects to mammals
· Innovative stem cell platforms for modeling human biology and pathology
· New horizons in regenerative biology: Neural to cardiac repair mechanisms
· Integrative platforms for modeling biological complexity: Systems biology and beyond

We encourage the submission of abstracts for the poster session to facilitate a lively and informative exchange of ideas. A small number of poster abstracts will be selected for oral presentations. Travel grants and Poster awards are available to encourage young researchers from around the world.

We look forward to welcoming you to our Center in March 2026.

Ryoichiro Kagyama, MD PhD
Director, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR)