Interdisciplinary Theoretical and Mathematical Sciences Program (iTHEMS) is an international research program at RIKEN. It facilitates close collaborations among researchers from different disciplines in theoretical, mathematical and computational sciences. The ultimate goal of iTHEMS is to unravel the mystery of the Universe, matter, and life, as well as to solve key problems in modern society through interdisciplinary approaches.
iTHEMS is a program that fosters collaboration between researchers in theoretical science, computational science, and mathematics to create new theories. By promoting interdisciplinary research, it tackles unresolved issues in fields such as physics and biology, using modern mathematics to advance scientific progress.
The research groups called "Research CELL" are the core functions in iTHEMS program. Each cell is formed beyond the boundary of conventional laboratories and institutes. The cells interact and stimulate each other, sometimes may "fuse" or "reproduce". This organic structure makes iTHEMS an ever innovative international research platform. Currently, we have four cells: "Extreme Universe", "Life and Evolution", "Mathematics and AI" and "Future Geometry".
The working groups are formed to explore novel possibilities of the interdisciplinary collaborations. Activities of a working group are financially supported by iTHEMS for one to two years, upon the review of the proposal to form the working group.
The study groups are formed to promote information sharing among researchers. Activities of a study group are financially supported by iTHEMS, upon the review of the proposal to form the study group.
An important part of iTHEMS is the Coffee Meeting that is held every Friday at lunch time.
iTHEMS actively engages in outreach activities to share the wonders of mathematical sciences with the general public. In addition to educational programs, iTHEMS offers various content, including "Mathematics Connecting to the World: One S&T poster for Every Household," making the world of mathematics more accessible and relatable.
"Useless Prototyping Studio" is a design studio that creates prototypes that are "seemingly useless" but inspire people with the aim of creating a new relationship between science and the world.
Introducing iTHEMS researchers who are active in various research fields.
An award based on the donation for the purpose to nurture junior scientists.
iTHEMS has cooperative research agreements with domestic and overseas institutions and promotes international brain circulation.
iTHEMS is expanding its industry-academia collaboration with the following companies.
Introducing the iTHEMS brochure
