Molecular Robotics Society

Awakening intelligence to the molecular world

Our world is full of molecules. Molecular robotics is an interdisciplinary research field that creates “molecular robots” operating at extremely small scales, using biomolecules such as DNA and proteins as components. By integrating the functions of sensors, computers, and actuators at the molecular level, we aim—through an approach different from conventional robotics—to build intelligent systems and ultimately to realize the genesis of intelligence.

Transition from designing individual molecules to designing systems

In the more than ten years since the founding of our society, many achievements have emerged, including amoeba-like robots and material transport by molecular swarms. Today, with advances in computational science and AI technologies, molecular design is evolving from “dream” to “reality” in engineering. We now stand at a pivotal turning point: moving beyond the stage of making individual molecules to designing “molecular systems” in which they work together in harmony.

Toward programmable molecular robots

The key is “programmability.” If we can design molecular behavior the way we write computer code, intelligent behavior will appear beyond that. Acting as programmed—and at times flexibly in response to the environment—diverse molecular components functioning as a collective will lead to the emergence of intelligence in the true sense.

Cross-disciplinary collaboration

Advancing molecular robotics requires fusing insights from “self-organization” in the life sciences with the “diverse properties and stability” offered by chemistry. We will mobilize knowledge from every field—biology, organic and inorganic chemistry, physics, and information science—and pioneer a new fusion domain between life science and materials science.

Messages to everyone

To young researchers and students:

Molecular robotics is an interdisciplinary frontier where biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and information science converge. We provide venues such as BIOMOD and summer schools where you can unleash your creativity. Let us create new science together.

To industry:

Precise design and self-organization at the molecular level have the potential to revolutionize manufacturing. Through industry–academia collaboration, we hope to chart the path from basic research to practical application together.

To the general public:

Realizing molecular robots will drive innovation in the medical field—such as drug delivery systems and diagnostic technologies—and contribute to environmental remediation and new materials development. While placing strong emphasis on ethical considerations, we will advance technology development that benefits society.

To the international community:

Molecular robotics is a technology that opens a shared future for humanity. Through cross-border research cooperation and knowledge sharing, let us further develop this field.

We sincerely look forward to your participation and support.

Molecular Robotics Society
President for 2025, Shinichiro M. Nomura