Core Viewpoint - The research capability in Japan is perceived to be declining, but there is optimism that Japanese researchers will continue to win Nobel Prizes, with a call for better support for young researchers to enhance research capabilities [2][4]. Group 1: Research Capability in Japan - There are concerns regarding the decline in Japan's research capabilities based on metrics like citation counts, leading to fears of fewer future Nobel Prize candidates [2]. - North River emphasizes that there are still many potential Nobel Prize candidates in Japan and highlights the importance of significant foundational research [2]. Group 2: Training and Support for Young Researchers - North River points out that while Japan is gradually forming experiences in cultivating excellent researchers, there are significant challenges in ensuring young researchers have adequate research time due to unstable employment conditions [5]. - He stresses the necessity of establishing a supportive system for research, alongside ensuring sufficient budgets for basic research [5]. Group 3: Nobel Prize Achievement - North River is involved in research related to Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOF), which have potential applications in environmental and energy sectors, and he is a co-recipient of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry [7].

Core Insights - The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to three scientists for their pioneering work in the field of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) [1][3] - The Nobel Committee highlighted the significant potential of MOFs for creating customized materials with unprecedented functionalities [1] Group 1: Award Recipients - The Nobel Prize was awarded to Susumu Kitagawa from Japan, Richard Robson from Australia, and Omar Yaghi from the University of California, Berkeley [1] - Susumu Kitagawa is recognized for his contributions to the understanding of gas adsorption and the development of flexible MOFs [3] Group 2: Significance of MOFs - MOFs are characterized by their high surface area and porosity, enabling efficient storage and adsorption of various materials [3] - The unique properties of MOFs are expected to drive innovations in materials science, with potential applications in gas storage and separation, which are critical for addressing energy and environmental challenges [3] Group 3: Applications in Medicine - MOFs have shown promise in the biomedical field, particularly in drug delivery and bioimaging, acting as "nano-trucks" to transport therapeutic agents to targeted areas [3] - Biocompatible MOFs can also serve as contrast agents in medical imaging [3]