Dr. Sydney Brenner at OIST in 2008

“In 2001, when I was Minister of Science and Technology Policy and was developing the idea for OIST, I began looking for someone who could help make my vision a reality.  I interviewed numerous Nobel Laureates, but among all those I met during my search, Dr. Brenner was one of those who responded most strongly to my idea for a graduate university for science and technology. I was highly impressed by his energy and vision, and I knew then that I had found the right person to oversee the long process of establishing OIST,” said Mr. Koji Omi.

OIST President and CEO Dr. Peter Gruss remembered Brenner. “Some people watch history; others like Sydney made it happen,” Gruss said. “With Sydney’s passing the world has lost one of the most remarkable, witty and hardworking scientists of the late 20th century.”

Dr. Akito Arima, attending the inauguration ceremony of OIST, which was held on November 19th, 2011. From Center left: Dr. Akito Arima, Dr. Sydney Brenner, Dr. Torsten Wiesel.