TDK President Noboru Saito discusses Innovation and human potential at Tokyo University of Science’s GENTEN Research Center Symposium
On June 8, 2026, Tokyo University of Science hosted the GENTEN Research Center Opening Symposium, bringing together leaders, researchers, students and industry representatives to explore the future of human performance, innovation influence and societal impact.
TDK President and CEO Noboru Saito participated in a panel discussion highlighting the importance of corporate culture “Venture Spirit” for innovation.
Advancing Human Potential through Research
What is the GENTEN Research Center?
GENTEN which stands for “Generative Center of Enhancing Human Potential”, derives its name from a Japanese word meaning “origin” or “starting point”. This concept reflects the Center’s mission to explore fundamental questions surround life, the human body, consciousness and adaptation to diverse environment.
Led by the Olympic champion, Professor and Vice President of Sport Science at Tokyo University, Koji Murofushi, GENTEN is a multidisciplinary research hub that integrates sports & life science, medical engineering, robotics, sensing technologies and human biology to advance the understanding and enhancement of human capabilities.
The opening Symposium marked the beginning of a new journey for the Research Center to create a new science based on the integration of engineering and medicine.
Diverse perspectives on Innovation and Contribution to Society
The Symposium focused on the concept of “origin” and how business can contribute to society. Alongside of President Saito, distinguished experts from Waseda University and Tokyo University of Science participated in a panel discussion about “Origin science and human potential”.
TDK President Saito reflected on TDK’s origins, founded for industrializing the invention of ferrite at the Tokyo University of Science ( the former Tokyo Institute of Technology). He also, highlighted our cultural pillar that guided TDK’s growth throughout history enduring the “Venture Spirit” and our commitment to diversity.
During the panel, President Saito explained how TDK’s core expertise in material science and process technology enabled TDK to develop a broad portfolio of components and solutions that supports ongoing social and technological transformations. He stressed that innovation requires organization to embrace challenges, learn from failures and promote a culture where individuals can exchange ideas regardless of hierarchy and position.
For President Saito the GENTEN Research Centers have an important role in advancing interdisciplinary research that can unlock new possibilities for human development. Looking to the future, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration with diverse partners and talents to breakthrough innovations. By connecting experts across industry and academia, we can create meaningful progress and contribute to social transformation.
