Nov. 5, 2026
RIKEN scientists receive Medal with Purple Ribbon
RIKEN researchers have been awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon, an award presented at a ceremony held twice every year, in the spring and autumn. The medal is "awarded to individuals who have contributed to academic and artistic developments, improvements and accomplishments." Deputy Center Director Yoshihiro Iwasa of the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science was presented the award for his work in the area of condensed matter physics, while Chief Scientist Takao Someya of the RIKEN Pioneering Research Institute was recognized for his contributions to research on flexible electronics and electronic skin.
Dr. Iwasa has been a global leader in research on manipulating the electronic states of quantum and nanomaterials through device technology. In particular, he has demonstrated electric-field-induced superconductivity, a state in which insulators and semiconductors become superconducting simply by applying a voltage, and through this has contributed to the development of a new research field: electric-field control of quantum states. Further, through his research on nonlinear transport phenomena-including non-reciprocal conduction-he has established new methods for investigating the symmetry and electronic states of materials. Upon receiving the award, he said, "I am deeply honored to receive the Medal with Purple Ribbon. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my laboratory staff and to the students with whom I have shared my research career, as well as to my collaborators, the professors who guided me, and the assistants and administrative staff who have supported my research. I plan to continue to strive to contribute, however modestly, to the advancement of condensed matter physics."
Dr. Someya, for his part, has engaged in research on soft, stretchable electronic devices from early on. In 2004, his group developed a large-area pressure sensor using organic transistors, and subsequently began to develop stretchable electronic circuits and ultra-thin electronic devices. Through these efforts, he has advanced research on "electronic skin"-devices that are as flexible as human skin and capable of measuring information such as pressure and temperature. He has also worked on applications such as sensors that adhere closely to the skin to measure biological signals and wearable medical devices, achieving a wide range of results spanning from basic research to practical devices. Dr. Someya said, "I am deeply honored to have been awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my mentors, my fellow researchers, my colleagues at RIKEN, and the students and staff who have worked alongside me in the laboratory. Inspired by this award, I will continue to explore the potential of new materials and devices and dedicate myself to research on electronic devices that contribute to medicine and health."