An Interview with OIST Innovation’s Leticia Berkate

One part of OIST’s mission is to contribute to the sustainable development of Okinawa. OIST Innovation works to create a research and innovation cluster here in Okinawa that develops new technologies, collaborates with industry, and supports startup businesses.

We have asked a few questions to one of OIST Innovation’s newest employees, Leticia Berkate, about why she chose to join OIST Innovation, what it is like working at the intersection of industry and research, and how OIST community members can get involved with OIST Innovation. 

Léticia, you have a masters in neuroscience from Sorbonne Universite and first came to OIST as a research technician. What motivated your transition from research to working at OIST innovation? 

When we are working in fundamental research, it is hard to see our impact on our society and planet. When I discovered OIST innovation, I realized I can still be involved in research but differently: as the bridge between researchers and industry. It is exciting to work at this transition and participate in diffusing useful innovations into the world. Instead of focusing on one topic, I am now taking care of projects from various research fields. It is a dream for people passionate about science like me! 

What can you tell us about this new role and how it helps OIST community? 

Every workday is different: I am involved in all the steps from discussing with students and researchers their ideas and their potential usefulness, to analyzing the market targeted by their technology and help its promotion. I also investigate the potential applications of their discovery and what problems it would solve (practical, societal, environmental). 

How can people get involved with OIST Innovation? 

They can come see us or send us an email, and we will schedule a time to discuss their project. You don’t have to provide us with a finished product. You can come with an idea, a research project or just questions, and we can help you from there. We also have several programs to help them develop their innovative ideas or to create their start-up.

What is happening that is exciting at OIST Innovation right now? 

We want to improve communication between OIST community and our team, for instance we are organizing several events throughout the year to engage with it. We also welcome anyone in our co-working place in Lab 3 level A — The OIST Innovation Lounge. It is a comfortable open space with whiteboards and charging spots and can also be booked in Outlook. In 2024, we started a weekly open hour there, every Friday from 2pm to 3pm. You can also check our website where we regularly update our events.

Publication of TIDA story written by Rhett Register 
(Internal Communications Lead, Communication and Public Relations Division, OIST). 

Edited for content purposes.