On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, Tohoku University President Teiji Tominaga presented Professor Jerome Biller Hastings with the Tohoku University International Award, along with the title of “Specially Appointed Visiting Professor.”
Professor Hastings, from the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, has been instrumental in the development and application of X-ray Free Electron Lasers (XFEL), earning international acclaim. Among his numerous accolades, he received the Royal Society of Chemistry’s New Horizon Prize in 2021. His contributions to Tohoku University include playing a key role in the establishment of the 3GeV high-brilliance synchrotron radiation facility, NanoTerasu. In 2016, he chaired the International Review Committee for the Concept Design Report, laying the groundwork for NanoTerasu’s success. Additionally, Professor Hastings led the Synchrotron Facility Summit hosted by Tohoku University, strengthening international networks and enhancing the university’s global profile.
Tohoku University, recognizing Professor Hastings’ outstanding achievements, has decided to confer upon him the “Tohoku University International Award,” which honors individuals with significant international accomplishments connected to the university, as well as the title of “Specially Appointed Visiting Professor” in recognition of his advisory role in promoting NanoTerasu and fostering an innovation ecosystem centered on its utilization within the university.
The award ceremony, held prior to the 6th Aoba Summit, was attended by Special Senior Advisor to the President and former President Hideo Ohno, Executive Vice President Toshiya Ueki, Vice President Hiroo Yugami, and Special Advisor for Research Masaki Takada. President Tominaga remarked, “We look forward to your continued support, leveraging your expertise and international connections to ensure NanoTerasu’s success, guide our researchers, and foster an innovation ecosystem centered on NanoTerasu.”In his acceptance speech, Professor Hastings expressed his enthusiasm for contributing more actively to Tohoku University’s academic and institutional goals as a member of the University.
After the presentation of the certificate and speeches by both parties, the attendees exchanged views on the importance of international collaboration in academic advancement and future cooperation for the progress of Tohoku University.
