This is a joint mini-symposium between OIST and JST Act-X. Act-X is a JST grant program designed to support young researchers. The symposium features four speakers from Act-X’s research area, “Life and Chemistry,” and four speakers from OIST. While the symposium is titled “Life and Chemistry,” the topics covered are quite diverse. The primary aim of this event is to foster meaningful interactions between researchers at OIST and those from outside institutions.