The search and exploration of research themes require broad insight, deep expertise, and diverse perspectives. There are limits to activities that rely on the abilities of individual researchers. In our search program, we invite researchers engaged in cutting-edge research from a variety of fields. Through discussions with these researchers, we work to discover unexplored research projects from many standpoints.
SEARCH
Which mountain should I choose from the mountain range?
Activities that look across the vast mountain range [research field] and discover an unexplored, cutting-edge, and interdisciplinary mountain [research project]
EXPLORATION
Are there any precious gemstones in that mountain?
SEE MOREIn 2023, joint exploration efforts with 21 researchers from three fields of natural science (science of matter and materials, science of intelligence and intellect, and life sciences) and humanities found four exploratory research projects. In 2024, we invited two researchers from the design and art fields in an attempt to fuse the three fields of natural science with the humanities, aiming not only to "comprehensively and fundamentally ascertain matters" as set forth in 2023, but also to identify new research projects that evoke empathy toward future humanity while creating knowledge different from the perspective of natural science.
To support interdisciplinary collaboration, we held the kickoff meetup one month earlier than last year and shared the annual schedule and meeting goals to encourage early dialogue and advisor engagement.
Getting to know each other
[Meetup]Discover new topics based on other cutting-edge research fields
Broadening ideas
[Workshop]Surface implicit assumptions and align perspectives
Converging ideas
[Workshop] & [Ideathon]Converge different ideas and refine topics
Deciding research topics
[Contest]Decide projects by discovering the appeal of each topic
In addition to the projects selected through peer voting by research advisors, projects were also selected by research coordinators. Ultimately, the following two projects were selected for exploration. After formulating research plans, researchers will begin exploratory research for the selected projects.
Between Life and Death
Prediction and Control of Large-Scale and Complex Systems
At first, I was a little confused because the approach was different from my approach with the research I do every day. As I participated as a research advisor, however, I realized that there are some types of research that can only be achieved through nascent initiatives like these, and that the Toyota Group places great importance on collaboration with external researchers.
A bridge between researchers and the Toyota Group in collaboration
At first, I was a little confused because the approach was different from my approach with the research I do every day. As I participated as a research advisor, however, I realized that there are some types of research that can only be achieved through nascent initiatives like these, and that the Toyota Group places great importance on collaboration with external researchers.
Yuko Ikkatai
Associate ProfessorInstitute of Human and Social Sciences
Kanazawa University
Chances for unprecedented encounters and new challenges
When I was approached, I was not sure if I could contribute as a research advisor while taking care of a five-month-old baby, but the kind words, “There are many research advisors who are raising children, and you can use childcare services,” pushed me to try. As it turned out, I was able to participate in all the on-site programs with peace of mind. It was a wonderful opportunity for both me and my child to meet new people and take on new challenges.
Rina Takagi
Associate ProfessorThe Institute for Solid State Physics
The University of Tokyo