On April 8th, 2025, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) announced the recipients of the “Commendation for Science and Technology by the MEXT” for 2025. This commendation honors individuals who have achieved outstanding results in research and development related to science and technology, as well as in promoting public understanding of science and technology. Professor Kae Nemoto (Quantum Information Science and Technology Unit) of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) has received the Science and Technology Award in the Research category, which recognizes individuals or groups for their groundbreaking research. Her research on quantum computer architecture theory was praised for its significant role in the creation of the field.
The award ceremony is scheduled to be held at MEXT on April 15th. Last year, Dr. Shizuka Shimabukuro of OIST received the same award in the Promotion category.
Professor Nemoto's research has laid the theoretical groundwork for the practical implementation of quantum computers. These sophisticated machines offer new possibilities for addressing scientific challenges that are difficult or impossible to solve with conventional computers.
Professor Nemoto has theoretically elucidated the feasibility and scalability of quantum computers. She has proposed methods of implementing scalable quantum computers using physical qubits, such as photonic and superconducting qubits. Pioneering the development of quantum computing, she was the first to introduce the concepts of computer architecture and modularization to quantum computing, thereby materializing the design of fault-tolerant quantum computers. Furthermore, she has defined the various layers that constitute quantum computers and quantitatively evaluated the operation and performance of integrated systems, laying the foundation for quantum middleware—intermediate software that enables efficient operation of quantum computers.
Through this work, the theoretical foundation undergirding quantum computer development has been firmly established, substantially accelerating implementation research.
In addition to serving as the Director of the OIST Center for Quantum Technology, which was established in 2022 and plays a key role as one of Japan's national hubs for quantum technology, Professor Nemoto is a specially appointed professor at the National Institute of Informatics (NII), Director of the International Research Center for Quantum Information, and Co-Director of the Japanese-French Laboratory for Informatics (JFLI). She is also committed to the development of quantum computing expertise in Japan, contributing actively to the cultivation of the next generation of leaders through the development and implementation of various educational programs, such as through her representation at the Quantum Academy for Science and Technology consortium.
Her achievements are highly acclaimed both in Japan and internationally. She has been elected as a Fellow of the American Physical Society and the British Physical Society, and in 2022, she was made an Officer of the National Order of Merit by the French Republic.
Professor Kae Nemoto commented on receiving the award as follows: “I am truly honored that the outcomes of my fundamental research in quantum science have been recognized. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my collaborators who have worked with me over the years, as well as to everyone who has supported our daily research activities. Quantum technologies, including quantum computers, are currently receiving tremendous attention. We are living in an extraordinary and exciting era in the history of science—one in which advances in quantum technology are deepening our understanding of quantum science, and, in turn, new insights into quantum science are enabling further progress in quantum technologies. Quantum technology is still in its early stages, and we can expect many more groundbreaking advancements in the future. At the heart of this lies fundamental research. As the saying goes, "Nothing will grow unless you plant the seeds." I believe that sowing many seeds and nurturing them with care is the surest path to meaningful and significant progress in science and technology. Going forward, I hope to continue contributing—somewhere along the path of sowing, nurturing, and harvesting—to the advancement of quantum science and technology.”
OIST President and CEO Karin Markides commented, “Professor Nemoto's research is enabling the future of quantum computing, and her contribution is immeasurable. OIST promotes open innovation and aims to bridge research within Japan and to the world, bringing together and deepening cutting-edge knowledge and technology. The Quantum Technology Center, led by Professor Nemoto, connects internationally outstanding quantum researchers to conduct research based on the spirit of inquiry that is the lifeblood of technological innovation. As a colleague of Professor Nemoto, I am proud of her award. I look forward to seeing her leadership progress the field. "