News

The 2014 Nobel Prize in Physics was jointly awarded to Japanese scientists Isamu Akasaki, Hiroshi Amano and Shuji Nakamura for the invention of an energy-efficient light source - the blue light-emitting diode (LED).
Professor Amano from Nagoya visited Sendai last month to give a lecture to members of the public. At the end of the talk, a Q & A session was held with high school students.

Every year in early October, a few of the world's most distinguished scientists receive notification to inform them that they have won the Nobel Prize. It's a life changing moment and Prof. Amano jovially remarked on his response to hearing the news, as well as the hullabaloo that followed with the award ceremony and formal dinner.

Amano then talked about the significance of the blue light-emitting diodes in creating the white LED, and the impact they have had as an energy-efficient and eco-friendly light source.

At the question and answer session with high school students, he advised, "To say that something's impossible is an excuse to give up. You need to look at the reason why others weren't successful, and think of new methods." He also added, "Instead of memorizing answers, you have to think by yourselves. It is very important to foster logical thinking and reading books is one way of doing this."

Q &A session with high school students	Professor Amano

When asked about the key to success, Prof. Amano said, "I did my research with the idea that I would like to create something that would benefit society. It is vital to come up with an image of the final product before setting to work. Following through with ideas on your own is also essential." At the end of the Q & A session, a blue LED inspired bouquet was presented to Prof. Amano by high school students.

The Blue LED inspired bouquet

To hear the telephone interview with Hiroshi Amano following the announcement of the 2014 Nobel Prize in Physics, click the link below: http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/physics/laureates/2014/amano-telephone.html

Related Event:

On January 31, fellow Nobel Prize recipient Professor Shuji Nakamura will give a special lecture at the Tohoku University Kawauchi Centennial Hall. Japanese born-American citizen Prof. Nakamura is currently in residence at the University of California, Santa Barbara.