It is our great pleasure to welcome you to the 18th JBF Symposium, which will be held at SONIC CITY in Omiya from 16^th to 18^th March, 2027. Over the years, this symposium has contributed to the advancement of bioanalysis in Japan through the sharing of scientific knowledge, the exchange of ideas, and the development of strong professional networks among participants from industry, government, and academia. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who have continuously supported the activities of JBF.

　The theme of this year's symposium is “Advancing to the Next Stage.” This theme embodies our determination to move confidently into the next stage, as the environment surrounding bioanalysts continues to evolve rapidly. In recent years, therapeutic modalities have continued to evolve in diversity and complexity. At the same time, new analytical technologies and instruments have emerged and advanced rapidly. Bioanalysts are also facing new challenges, including the implementation of regulatory requirements such as ICH M10, the continuing refinement of immunogenicity assessment approaches, the transition toward data integrity (DI) and digitalization practices, and the rapid advancement of AI and automation technologies. As these changes continue to reshape the bioanalytical landscape, the expertise, responsibilities, and contributions expected of bioanalysts are expanding more than ever before.

　Reflecting these changes, this year’s symposium will feature a wide range of sessions. Based on feedback received following the 17th JBF Symposium, as well as recent technological and regulatory trends, we plan sessions covering topics such as ICH M10, biologics including antibody-drug conjugates, oligonucleotide- and peptide-based therapeutics, biomarkers, immunogenicity assessment, advances in high-resolution mass spectrometry, DI and digitalization, sample management, critical reagents, and cross-functional expectations for bioanalysis. Through these sessions, we hope to encourage meaningful discussions from multiple perspectives. In addition, the symposium will include poster presentations from JBF Discussion Groups and general participants. Following last year's program, we will once again host a session for early-career scientists, providing opportunities for learning, networking, and professional growth. We also plan to offer interactive opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, discuss common challenges, and share practical solutions that can be applied in their professional practice.

　Beyond providing analytical results, bioanalysis serves as an essential scientific foundation that supports drug discovery, clinical development, regulatory compliance, and strategic decision-making. We hope that this symposium will not only provide participants with new knowledge and insights, but also facilitate dialogue across organizations and functions, helping to inspire new ideas for advancing to the next stage. This symposium marks our return to the Kanto region after four years and our first gathering at a new venue. We hope this new setting will foster active dialogue and meaningful exchanges as we advance to the next stage together. We look forward to exploring the future of bioanalysis together and to welcoming all of you to Omiya in March 2027.

 

August 2026

The 18th JBF Symposium

Hiroyuki Shimizu, Executive Committee Chair

(Tanabe Pharma Corporation)

Takeshi Okuzono, Executive Committee Vice Chair

(SEKISUI MEDICAL CO., LTD.)