VISION

With the power of science,
move the world forward.

Perhaps it is,
It may be a small realization like a coincidence or
or a mere inspiration.

But it could also be
It may be something that moves the world forward.

Such an exciting experience is shared from person to person,
I want to create a future where such exciting experiences are shared from person to person
We want to create a future where such exciting experiences are shared from person to person.

If only we have the desire and creativity,
Anyone can play a part in scientific research,
and scientific ideas will become a normal part of everyday life.
scientific ideas as a matter of course.

MISSION

To create a scientific research ecosystem, a mechanism that will enable the accelerated and sustained creation of discoveries and inventions beyond imagination that will make a quantum leap forward in the world.

VALUES

People-Centric

Born from people, connected with people, and spread by people.

SS-F aims to unleash the creative power of the individual scientist.

By creating a situation where scientists can freely expand their curiosity, we can lead to discoveries and inventions beyond imagination.

1

SS-F respects the collective knowledge that comes from relationships between people.

We will create an environment where researchers can interact not only with each other regardless of their field, but also with investors, people in industry, children, or people of various nationalities, and where they can engage in dialogue and stimulate each other to generate ideas that transcend human knowledge.

2

SS-F fosters a movement that engages people from all walks of life.

We support the creation of original academic research by connecting diverse stakeholders with whom connections have traditionally been tenuous, so that the new discoveries and inventions that emerge from this research can quickly develop into social change.

3

OUR CHALLENGE

The boundless imagination and creativity of humankind.
The power of scientific research will move humanity forward.

Has there even been a time when the world has believed more in, and relied more upon, the power of science as it does today?

Evolving some 3.5 billion after the emersion of life on earth, humans have taken up the powerful tool that is science and in just a few short decades, even just a few short years, have made incredible advancements.

Adversely, we are now faced with new and overwhelming challenges, such as emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, climate change, global food problems, biodiversity, hatred and social injustice, and so on that turn our daily lives into a whirlwind of anxiety.

Precisely because we live in this day and age that we need innovations fueled by new discoveries and inventions to bring the world into a brighter and more peaceful future.

It is because we believe in boundless power of human imagination and human creativity we want to design a new, people-centered science that transcends organizational hierarchy, academic cliques, the “old boys club”, and the limitations of organizations, industries, and even national borders.

What is the pure essence of scientific research and what do we need to truly unleash it’s power for the benefit of all?

Stellar Science Foundation (SS-F) was born to answer this question.

OUR TEAM
Founder / Representative Director

Takanori Takebe

PROFILE

Graduated from Yokohama City University School of Medicine. He has been a member of the faculty at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Yokohama City University, Shonan Health Innovation Park, and the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan). Major awards include the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Award, the 1st Japan Medical Research and Development Award, AMED President’s Award, the New-York Stem Cell Foundation Robertson Investigator Award, and the NIH Director’s New Innovator Award. Too Late for a Cure”. He specializes in stem cell biology, liver disease, and communication design.

 

VISION

I would be happy if I could bring the world closer to a world where scientific ideas and ways of thinking are much more accessible. Small discoveries and inspirations that at first seem like coincidences may lead the world forward in a big way. I would like to create a mechanism from SS-F so that many people can share such exciting experiences and everyone can play a part in scientific research in a street-smart way.

 

COMMENT
I enjoy writing papers that can tell a compact story of a dream-like world. I love children, animals, and music. I live my life with the spirit of “kun-ikun”.

Co-Founder / Executive Director

Mariko Kita

PROFILE

Graduated from Keio University, Faculty of Economics. Worked for Mitsubishi Corporation for 10 years and was involved in various domestic and international businesses, including an assignment to Brazil. 2021 MBA from the National University of Singapore, and established SS-F in December 2021 after working on the digital reskilling project RISE at BCG Singapore.

 

VISION

As a daughter of a researcher since childhood, she has visited laboratories in Japan and the U.S., and has always viewed science as a familiar presence. I have a strong interest in diversity and cross-cultural understanding, having lived in North and South America and Southeast Asia, and I see potential in the concept of “People-Centric,” which is one of SS-F’s values. I hope to bring positive change to Japan and the world through SS-F.

 

COMMENT
I gave birth to my first child while I was studying for my MBA, and I am now a mother of two. She enjoys all creative activities such as dancing and drawing, and watching rugby. My favorite saying is “View things from a different angle. Nothing is impossible! I like to look at things from a different angle when I am in trouble and to seek positive and enjoyable solutions to impossible problems.

Co-Founder / Strategy & Partnerships

Hodaka Kokeguchi

PROFILE

After graduating from Keio University with a Bachelor of Law degree, he worked as an ANA pilot trainee and then as a strategy consultant at Boston Consulting Group in Tokyo, where he participated in cross-border sales strategies, organizational restructuring, and PMI projects. Later, as Director of Partnerships at Anchor Star Corporation, he supported global startups and services and their collaboration with Japanese companies. Having spent his childhood in New York, Washington DC, and Yokohama, his personal mission is to build bridges between Japan and the world.

 

VISION

Our rich and unencumbered lives are shaped by the inquisitiveness, hard work, and countless discoveries of scientists. I look forward to contributing in any way I can to making such scientists even more active and to creating an even better world.

 

COMMENT
I am happy to meet new people and things through my travels.

IT Engineer

Mitsuyoshi Yagyu

PROFILE

Freelance programmer who develops web apps and smartphone apps. 2014 independent, experienced in launching various services on outsourcing mainly for startup companies. He covers a wide range of fields from front-end, smartphone apps, back-end, and infrastructure construction. Graduated from Waseda University, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Physics.

 

VISION

As I used to be a science major, I am fascinated by science-related programs on TV. I hope that SS-F will nurture the seeds of the future, such as a more convenient world and new treatment methods, as a result of scientists’ research in an environment where new discoveries and collaborations can be made based on free ideas.

 

COMMENT
I love programming and even write programming as a hobby on my days off. I have also been playing the flute for over 20 years and belong to an amateur working orchestra.

Strategic Designer

Sean McKelvey

PROFILE

Graduated from Naropa University in the United States and came to Japan. After working on the planning and development of Pepper, the world’s first mass-produced emotional companion robot, he joined BCG Digital Ventures, where he helped large companies take on the challenge of zero-one, design-driven innovation. He has been involved in startup entrepreneurship in the fields of travel, art, and architecture. He holds a Master’s degree in Strategic Design and Management from Parsons School of Design.

 

VISION

Researchers are unique and powerful individuals with abilities and perspectives that should be leveraged for the betterment of society. We at SS-F will work hard to better support and empower these special individuals by revolutionizing scientific research.

 

COMMENT.

I love design, stories and laughing. When I want to understand the world, I go to places with nature. I especially like mountain climbing. I would like to use the power of design to support researchers at SS-F to be more active and enjoyable.

What kind of world would it be if we could make everyone’s life 10% “kinder” by the power of design?

General Affairs / Community Manager

Mao Kamei

PROFILE

Worked in research laboratories and academic research support departments at Keio University and RIKEN.
He has worked in research support at Keio University and RIKEN.

He has experience in project management at several companies in Japan and the U.S.

 

VISION

Through my experience in secretarial work and field support in laboratories, I have firsthand experience of the greatness and difficulty of advancing medical research. Witnessing researchers who persevere in their research while maintaining their curiosity, I have come to respect them and wonder if I can do something to help. I sympathize with SS-F’s efforts to create opportunities for young researchers to make discoveries and inventions in the world, and I would like to support its activities.

 

COMMENT

We value human connections. I would like to help connect people globally at SS-F by utilizing my experience in communicating with overseas research institutions.

She loves cats, and her hobbies are yoga and teaching English to children.

Senior Advisor / Auditor

Yoshiyuki Tanabe

PROFILE

Mr. Kuroda joined Mitsui Fudosan in 1982, where he was involved in the real estate securitization business from its dawn in the late 1990s. Later, he served as the General Manager of Mitsui Fudosan’s Chubu Branch and General Manager of related businesses, and then as the CEO of two listed REIT management companies. He has extensive practical experience in accounting, finance, real estate securitization, and corporate management.

 

VISION

SS-F is a group of young and capable members who agree with Professor Takebe’s aspirations. Although I myself live in Kamakura and have already retired from the front lines, I feel happy to help this young organization move forward unwaveringly toward its noble goal. I am joining this project with a desire to participate in a project that will energize Japan.

 

COMMENT
On my days off, I enjoy relaxing and sipping in the sea in Shonan. Every time I go into the ocean, I feel the wonder and splendor of human life. I look forward to creating a new wave of innovation with the young generation who will build Japan in the future.

ORGANIZATION
Representative Director

Takanori Takebe

Professor, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
Distinguished Professor, Yokohama City University
Associate Professor, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

Executive Director

Mariko Kita

Co-Founder

Director

Tomoyasu Kato

Managing Executive Officer, Mitsui Fudosan Co.

Auditor

Yoshiyuki Tanabe

Effective September 1, 2022