About the program

Message from the Chair

Head of the Pioneer Science Research Division Nobuyuki Kutsukake

Chair of the program

Nobuyuki Kutsukake

What fuels our research? It is because we want to know more, because we are genuinely interested, because curiosity drives us, because we are on a mission to crack unsolved problems, and because we dream of making groundbreaking discoveries. Although the driving forces are different for everyone, we all share the same passion for research. Research is hard work, and often, it does not proceed as smoothly as planned and desired, with outcomes that may not align with our expectations. Nevertheless, we continue with our work, driven by the passion for the subjects and themes we study, as well as the routine that characterizes the work of a researcher. Lately, I have been pondering upon this aspect.

“Integrative Evolutionary Science” is a new course that was introduced in 2023 at the Department of Evolutionary Studies of Biosystems, formerly known as the Institute of the Integrative Evolutionary Science Program. Numerous individuals have earned their PhDs from this prestigious institute. A graduate-level degree will be offered for this new course, providing education in a pioneering direction rooted in the founding principles of the Department of Evolutionary Studies of Biosystems. I look forward to working with students who harbor a profound enthusiasm for evolution, science, and their societal implications..

Nobuyuki Kutsukake

Program Outline

A New Outlook on Life and the Future

Integrative Evolutionary Science is a new academic field that aims not only for the development of biology but also for elucidating the nature of human beings and solving social issues, through a comprehensive understanding of the change of living organisms, transition of human activities, and progression of global issues from an evolutionary perspective. The Integrative Evolutionary Science Program, in collaboration with the Research Center for Integrative Evolutionary Science, aims to pursue and share truths with society, produce future leaders in this field, and to contribute broadly to the development of science and society. Students in this program will conduct their studies and research activities at the Research Center for Integrative Evolutionary Science, located in Hayama, Kanagawa Prefecture.
This program consists of two programs: a five-year doctoral program for students with a bachelor's degree and a three-year doctoral program for students with a master's degree.

Brochure

Integrated Evolutionary Science
2025 brochure

Faculty List

Kaori Iida

Kaori IidaAssociate professor

Field of Study

History of Science
E-mail

iida_kaori (at) soken.ac.jp