Message from the Dean

Prof. Masanori Hariyama

The Establishment and
Evolution of ‘New Information Sciences’

Masanori HariyamaDean of the Graduate School of Information Sciences

The Graduate School of Information Sciences (GSIS) at Tohoku University was established in 1993 as the university’s first independent graduate school, and in 2026 marks its 33rd year. GSIS positions information sciences not only within the domains of natural science and engineering, but also as a “comprehensive domain of knowledge” encompassing the humanities and social sciences. Guided by this vision, GSIS has contributed to addressing societal challenges and shaping the future, while fostering outstanding talent that supports both academic advancement and industrial innovation.
 The challenges facing modern society—such as population aging, climate change, energy issues, and AI ethics—are becoming increasingly complex and multifaceted. Addressing these challenges requires not only excellence in individual disciplines, or “points,” but also the ability to integrate them into broader, interdisciplinary “planes.” At GSIS, we promote a fusion of the sciences and humanities, strengthening collaboration across diverse research fields to expand from “points to planes” in both research and education, thereby creating new societal value.
 GSIS comprises four departments: Computer and Mathematical Sciences, System Information Sciences, Human-Social Information Sciences, and Applied Information Sciences. We conduct a wide range of research in areas including AI, quantum computing, mathematical sciences, cybersecurity, human interfaces, language processing, and behavioral analysis. Through research centers such as the Tough Cyberphysical AI Research Center, as well as collaborative initiatives with industry and government, GSIS actively promotes advanced research with a strong focus on real-world implementation.
 In education, GSIS is committed to fostering globally competent and interdisciplinary professionals through international and cross-disciplinary programs. In particular, we are enhancing English-medium education and strengthening international collaborations to develop talent capable of thriving on the global stage.
 Following Tohoku University’s designation in November 2024 as Japan’s first University for International Research Excellence, GSIS serves as a central hub for information sciences—one of the core fields of this initiative—leading interdisciplinary collaboration and global engagement. We are also advancing the development of a new research and education facility, which will serve as a next-generation hub for further growth.
 In an era where information technologies underpin society, GSIS will continue to create and disseminate “new information sciences” that contribute to the world. We sincerely appreciate your continued support and encouragement.

1st April, 2026