Dr. Kazuo Murakami is one of the top geneticists in the world and Professor Emeritus at the University of Tsukuba, one of Japan's leading research universities. In 1963, he obtained a Doctorate of Agricultural Chemistry from the Graduate School of Agriculture at Kyoto University and then became a researcher at Oregon Health & Science University. In 1976, Dr. Murakami started as assistant professor at Vanderbilt University.
He was appointed Professor of Applied Biochemistry at the University of Tsukuba in 1978 where he began genetic research. In 1983, he decoded the gene of the human enzyme renin-a hidden factor behind hypertension-which won him international acclaim. In 1990, he won the Max Planck Research Award. In 1994, he became director of the Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance Center at the University of Tsukuba.
In 1996, he was presented with the Japan Academy Prize in recognition of his achievements. Dr. Murakami has authored numerous books in Japanese and English, including "The Divine Code of Life" and "Genes for the Joyous Life".
Masami Saionji is the chairperson of three organizations: Byakko Shinko Kai (www.byakko.org), The World Peace Prayer Society (www.worldpeace.org), and The Goi Peace Foundation (www.goipeace.or.jp).
A native of Japan and a descendant of the Royal Ryukyu Family of Okinawa, she continues the work of her adoptive father, Masahisa Goi, who initiated a movement for world peace through the universal prayer May Peace Prevail on Earth. As a spiritual leader and lecturer, she has touched thousands of people's lives through her guidance and inspiration. She travels globally on speaking tours, and has led peace ceremonies in many countries as well as at the United Nations and other international organizations.
She has authored over twenty books in Japanese and eight in English and other languages. She is an honorary member of the Club of Budapest and a member of the World Wisdom Council. She was awarded the Philosopher Saint Shree Dnyaneshwara World Peace Prize of India along with her husband Hiroo in 2008. She is also the recipient of the 2010 WON Award honoring distinguished women leaders. In February 2013, Mrs.
Saionji had the privilege of presenting the Symphony of Peace Prayers ceremony at the United Nations, in a special event entitled 'United for a Culture of Peace through Interfaith Harmony', which was hosted by the president of the UN General Assembly. Mrs. Saionji and her husband currently live in Tokyo, and have three daughters, all working for peace.
