The Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF) is pleased to announce that Dr. Mikio Shimada, Chief of the Molecular Pathology Laboratory in RERF’s Department of Molecular Biosciences, has been awarded the Japan Radioisotope Association (JRIA) Encouragement Award for 2025.

The award-winning research is titled “Elucidation of the Mechanism of Radiation-Dependent Centrosome Abnormalities and the Onset of Genomic Instability.” Dr. Shimada has been engaged in research on the manner in which radiation affects living organisms, with a focus on a small cellular organelle called the “centrosome.” His research has revealed that the overduplication of centrosomes caused by radiation can lead to cell death.

The discovery has potential for use in industrial and medical applications, such as enhancing the efficacy of cancer radiotherapy and developing new methods to protect the human body from radiation, with his progress in future research highly anticipated. In addition to his research achievements, Dr. Shimada has also been actively involved in public outreach to communicate accurate information about environmental radiation. The efforts carried out by Dr. Shimada to communicate with the public were highly evaluated, contributing to his selection for the award.

RERF aims to conduct research and studies for peaceful purposes on medical effects of radiation and associated diseases in humans, with a view to contributing to maintenance of the health and welfare of the A-bomb survivors and to enhancement of the health of all humankind.

RERF believes that Dr. Shimada’s work significantly advances its research mission as well as enhances the public’s understanding of radiation effects.

About the JRIA Encouragement Award
The Japan Radioisotope Association’s Encouragement Award is presented to young and mid-career researchers who have produced outstanding results through basic and applied research related to radioisotopes or radiation. The award recognizes those whose work is expected to contribute to the future development, expansion, and societal application of radioisotopes and radiation-related technologies.

At the award ceremony held in Tokyo on July 3, 2025 (at right: Dr. Mikio Shimada)
Photo courtesy of the Secretariat of the JRIA Encouragement Award Committee


Dr. Shimada delivering a speech at the award ceremony
Photo courtesy of the Secretariat of the JRIA Encouragement Award Committee