JASGP 2nd Annual Life Sciences Dialogue: Innovation and Breakthroughs

In partnership with Thomas Jefferson University’s Jefferson Japan Center and the City of Kobe, JASGP hosted their 2^ndAnnual Life Sciences Dialogue. This event was an exploration of “Innovation & Breakthroughs,” presented as a Japan Currents program.

Speakers from Japan and the US explored how Japanese life science and health tech innovations are entering the American market, with Philadelphia emerging as a key gateway – and the unique role of the Kobe-Philadelphia collaboration. From regenerative medicine to advanced robotics and generative AI, the speakers shared insights and lessons learned in navigating the opportunities and challenges of bringing breakthrough technologies from Japan to the world.

JASGP would like to thank our partners Thomas Jefferson University and the City of Kobe, also the Embassy of Japan and NAJAS for their support, our exceptional speakers, and all of the staff who helped to make this program a success.

Click on any photo to view slideshow.

: Masashi Kiyomine, Founder & Managing Partner, Kicker Ventures

: Nan Sato, JASGP Board Member and Chair of the Corporate & Public Policy Committee; Co-Chair International Committee, Managing Partner, Tokyo Office, Fisher Phillips

: Andrew Wylegala, President, National Association of Japan America Societies (NAJAS) also presenting on behalf of the Embassy of Japan

: David Briel, Deputy Secretary of International Development, Department of Community and Economic Development Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

: Dr. Said Ibrahim, Dean, Thomas Jefferson University Sidney Kimmel Medical College

: Atsunobu Kasagi, Director, Innovation Specialist City of Kobe

: Moderator: Masashi Kiyomine

: Terry Chang, VP, Medicaroid (Hinotori surgical robot) Expanding Access for Robotic Surgery

: Tsutomu (Tom) Hoshiba, President, Kievit Scientific Positioning Philadelphia as a Strategic Gateway for Japanese Life Sciences Startups

: Attendees at the Life Sciences Dialogue event, 10/29/2025

: Kota Kubo, CEO, Ubie Breaking Barriers in US Healthcare: The Journey of Japan’s Top AI Startup

: Attendees at the Life Sciences Dialogue event, 10/29/2025

: Dr. Masayo Takahashi, President, Vision Care Inc; Kobe City Eye Hospital Toward Global Implementation of iPSC-RPE Cell Therapy

: Takami Sato, MD, PhD, Director, Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Program K. Hasumi, MD Professor in Medical Oncology Professor, Thomas Jefferson University with Tom Hoshiba, President Kievit Scientific