Established to commemorate Tasuku Honjo’s receipt of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, the Tasuku Honjo “Yuh-shi” Fund was originally endowed by Dr. Honjo’s donation of the cash award that accompanied his Nobel Prize. Further donations are now being sought widely to expand the fund.

This fund provides research funding and secure positions to young people who seek to pursue a career in research with high ideals.

The word “Yuh-shi” in the fund’s name comes from the phrase “Yuh-shi Kyoh-sei,” or “where there’s a will, there’s a way,” which is Dr. Honjo’s personal motto. The phrase derives from a historical Chinese text (Biography of Geng Yan, Book of the Later Han), and means that those who have a steadfast and unbending will can undoubtedly attain their goals. Even things that seem impossible can eventually be achieved if tackled with a firm conviction.

This fund will be used in support of young researchers who demonstrate this kind of conviction as they seek careers in life sciences and a broad range of other scientific endeavors.