Sweden and Japan Forge Stronger Ties in AI, Robotics, and Sustainable Materials Research
The 14th Sweden-Japan Academic Network (SJAN) Seminar, hosted by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, signals a deepening collaboration between the two nations in critical areas of scientific advancement. This year’s event, focusing on AI and Robotics for Health, alongside academic links and research experiences, highlights a commitment to shared innovation.
AI and Robotics: A Healthcare Revolution
The seminar’s focus on AI and robotics in healthcare reflects a global trend. Professor Kenji Kawashima of the University of Tokyo will present on the evolution of AI in surgical robotics, a field rapidly transforming medical procedures. This builds on existing advancements; for example, robotic-assisted surgery is already demonstrating increased precision and faster recovery times in procedures like prostatectomies and hysterectomies.
Professor Kristian Samuelsson from the University of Gothenburg will explore broader applications of AI in healthcare. This includes areas like diagnostic imaging, personalized medicine, and drug discovery. The potential for AI to analyze vast datasets and identify patterns invisible to the human eye promises to revolutionize how we approach disease prevention and treatment.
Bridging Academia: Swedish-Japanese Research Experiences
A key component of the SJAN seminar involves presentations from researchers sharing their experiences in Japan. Adjunct Professor Jonas Olsson (SMHI – Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute) will discuss rainfall and flooding, a critical area of research given increasing climate change impacts. Researcher Inga Tuminaite (Stockholm University) will share insights gained through JSPS Fellowships, focusing on temperature research and support roles. Professor Edwin Jager (Linköping University) will present on a Swedish-Japanese collaboration elucidating mechanotransduction in bone.
These presentations underscore the value of international collaboration. The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) plays a vital role in facilitating these exchanges, supporting researchers and fostering long-term partnerships.
Sustainability and Materials Science: A Shared Future
While this year’s seminar emphasizes AI and health, the broader Sweden-Japan Academic Network has previously focused on sustainability and materials science. The 13th SJAN Seminar, for instance, explored how materials research can contribute to a more sustainable world, with presentations on earth-abundant elements and knowledge-based materials design. This reflects a growing global emphasis on circular economy principles and reducing reliance on scarce resources.
The collaboration extends beyond research to include the sharing of best practices and the development of joint initiatives. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, the Embassy of Japan in Sweden, JSPS Stockholm Office, and the JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden all contribute to organizing these events.
Event Details and Registration
The 14th SJAN Seminar will be held at KVA, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, in Stockholm. Registration is required and free of charge, and is open to the public. The event begins with registration at 13:45 on March 2nd, followed by opening remarks from Sven Lidin, the Embassy of Japan in Sweden, and Johan Eriksson, Chair of the JSPS Swedish Alumni Club. A reception will follow the Q&A session.
Important Dates: Registration is possible until March 1st. Requests for allergy or dietary preferences must be submitted by February 18th.
FAQ
Q: Is the seminar open to anyone?
A: Yes, the seminar is open to the public, including Swedish researchers and anyone interested in science and technology in Japan.
Q: Is there a cost to attend?
A: No, the event is free of charge.
Q: Where can I find more information about JSPS Fellowships?
A: Information about JSPS Fellowships can be found on the JSPS website: https://www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-alumni/sweden/index.html
Q: How can I contact the organizers with questions?
A: You can reach the organizers at [email protected].
Did you know? The JSPS Alumni Club in Sweden (SAC) was established in 2005 to support former JSPS fellows and promote collaboration between Sweden and Japan.
Explore further research collaborations and upcoming events at the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences: https://www.kva.se/
