National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) is Japan’s leading national research and development organisation under the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Established in 2001 through the consolidation of 15 research institutes, AIST bridges scientific discovery and industrial application through multidisciplinary research and innovation. With around 2,300 researchers across 12 bases nationwide, it focuses on materials science, energy and environment, digital technologies, robotics, metrology, and life sciences. AIST promotes open innovation and collaboration among industry, academia and government to address Japan’s socioeconomic and sustainability challenges.