LI Blog: Congrats on your new role! You’ve been promoted to Managing Director at Yokogawa Innovation Switzerland (YIS) since January 2024. What plans and targets do you have for YIS?
Daisuke Nojima: Thank you all for the warm welcome. I am deeply honored to take on the role of Managing Director at Yokogawa Innovation Switzerland (YIS). I recognize there is much to learn in this new position, and I sincerely appreciate the ongoing support of Yokogawa colleagues in Europe as we work together to advance YIS.
Our goal is to significantly strengthen YIS’s presence in Switzerland and across Europe, with a particular focus on biotechnology and life sciences, which are key growth areas for Yokogawa. In 2024, we aim to assess the business potential of our current biomanufacturing project. YIS will continue to build collaborative relationships with internal teams and external partners, such as Yokogawa’s Bio Center of Excellence.
I look forward to working with all of you as we drive innovation and expand our capabilities in these exciting fields.
LI Blog: What services do you offer in your shared laboratory at Switzerland Innovation Park Basel?
Daisuke Nojima: Our laboratory at the Switzerland Innovation Park Basel is equipped with a range of Yokogawa’s advanced life science products, which we use for our R&D initiatives. The facility also serves as a showroom, where we showcase Yokogawa’s cutting-edge solutions in life sciences and conduct live demonstrations for our customers. Notably, it is the only Yokogawa laboratory in Europe capable of performing bio experiments at the BSL2 (Biosafety Level 2) standard, enabling us to conduct sophisticated biotechnological research and development on-site.
Wanted: Partners with Expertise in Single-Cell Manipulation
LI Blog: Which companies or research institutes would you like to cooperate with?
Daisuke Nojima: As part of Yokogawa’s commitment to advancing the bioeconomy, YIS plays a key role in fostering innovation in this space. Through open innovation and an awareness of evolving social and environmental needs, YIS remains open to collaboration with companies and research institutes across various sectors.
For our current project, we are actively seeking partners with expertise in single-cell manipulation technology, particularly for microalgae, as well as downstream biomanufacturing processes such as advanced cultivation technologies. We are eager to explore opportunities that can accelerate innovation in these areas and enhance our capabilities in biomanufacturing.
LI Blog: Could you provide an update on the development of technologies for smart cell creation with Yokogawa Technology Solutions India (YTI)? What is the current status?
Daisuke Nojima: Our project, which began in 2021, has made significant progress. At YIS, we have successfully developed single-cell manipulation technology for microalgae, while YTI has focused on creating bioinformatics and automation software for metabolic and other genetic engineering target predictions to support biomanufacturing processes. We are now in the process of integrating these two technologies into a unified system aimed at establishing smart cell development. Additionally, we are preparing to evaluate the business feasibility of this initiative in collaboration with external partners, moving closer to practical applications.
LI Blog: What has been your most enormous success so far?
Daisuke Nojima: Our most considerable success has been raising awareness of YIS across Europe. When YIS was first established in Basel in 2020, few people, even within the Yokogawa group, were familiar with us. Thanks to the strong support from the Embassy of Switzerland in Japan and Switzerland Innovation, we have enhanced our visibility greatly. They provided valuable opportunities to connect with influential individuals and participate in high-profile events, helping us establish a foothold in Switzerland’s innovation ecosystem.
Additionally, JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) has been instrumental in expanding our network throughout Europe. Through events they organized, we’ve had the opportunity to meet and engage with Japanese companies in Europe, many of which share a similar mission. These conversations have been both encouraging and inspiring. JETRO has also facilitated introductions with top-tier companies and universities, allowing us to share ideas and explore collaborative opportunities.
Through the combined efforts of the Swiss Embassy, Switzerland Innovation, and JETRO, YIS has built a robust network of contacts that will be vital for future collaborations. We are deeply grateful for their continued support.
Next Trends in Biotechnology
LI Blog: What do you think will be the next trends in biotechnology?
Daisuke Nojima: I believe that the drive to reduce CO2 emissions will be a major force propelling advancements in biotechnology. The European Commission, for example, has adopted ambitious proposals to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels, and many other countries are following suit with similar initiatives.
One area with significant potential is the development of materials derived from biomass and bioprocesses, although the high costs currently present a challenge for widespread adoption. However, as regulations tighten and industries are required to shift towards more sustainable alternatives, even at a higher cost, biomanufacturing will emerge as a crucial solution. I am closely monitoring these regulatory trends, as they will undoubtedly shape the future direction of multiple industries.
Cultural Differences
LI Blog: After living in Switzerland for almost 4 years, what is the biggest difference compared to Japan?
Daisuke Nojima: The cultural differences between Europe and Japan are significant, particularly in areas like work style and communication. It can be challenging to adapt if one strictly adheres to traditional Japanese approaches. However, this challenge is not unique to Europe; it highlights the importance of continuously evolving personal and professional habits to succeed and maintain performance across different cultural contexts.
Fortunately, through open communication with colleagues in Europe and interaction with other expatriates, I’ve been able to adjust my mindset and adapt to the unique dynamics of working in Switzerland.
LI Blog: Where can our readers meet you? What will be the next event you’re attending?
Daisuke Nojima: I will be attending upcoming pitching events organized by JETRO and several conferences focused on biomanufacturing. I welcome anyone interested in connecting to contact me via LinkedIn or email. I’m always excited to meet new people and explore shared interests. Networking and exchanging ideas are crucial to driving innovation and achieving success, and I look forward to engaging with you all.
For more information about YIS, please visit their website.
