Professor Tatsuya Okubo
Judge
Professor Tatsuya Okubo is the founding Director of the Centre for Strategic Promotion of Green Transformation (GX) at the University of Tokyo (UTokyo). He previously served as UTokyo’s Executive Vice President (2020–2024) and Dean of Engineering (2017–2020), overseeing 500 faculty, 200 staff, and 5,000 students. A chemical engineer and materials chemist, Professor Okubo earned his PhD from University of Tokyo (UTokyo) in 1988 and went on to roles at Kyushu University, UTokyo, and the California Institute of Technology. He became a full Professor at UTokyo’s School of Engineering in 2006 and has also held Presidential Endowed Chairs for the “Platinum Society” (since 2012) and “Value Creation by GX” (since 2025). His research focuses on nanoporous materials, particularly the synthesis and application of zeolites - crystalline microporous aluminosilicates widely used as catalysts, adsorbents, and ion‑exchangers. An internationally recognised scholar, he holds multiple patents, is a former council member of the International Zeolite Association, and a former President of the Japan Zeolite Association. He is a Fellow of the Society of Chemical Engineers of Japan and a member of the Engineering Academy of Japan. Professor Okubo also brings extensive experience in international academic–industry collaboration and start‑up engagement. |