Initially, because the number of applications was small, the application period was extended by two weeks, resulting in 8 applications. Originality of the research was used as the evaluation criterion, and selection was further made by taking into consideration presentations at the annual meeting and Zoological Science, as well as the research environment. For fiscal year 2008, since the supplementary prize was carried over, three candidates were selected. The research level of all candidates was high, and furthermore, the applicants' ages and research environment circumstances were extremely diverse, making the selection difficult; however, as a result of long discussions, we decided to recommend the following three candidates to the Council.

Target research topic:
Research on the evolution of skeletal muscle development mechanisms using cyclostomes (lampreys)
Winner Name, Affiliation, Title:
Rie Kusakabe, Project Research Fellow, Graduate School of Science, Kobe University

Target research topic:
Research on the mechanism of periodic positioning of zebrafish spinal primary motor neuron cell bodies
Winner Name, Affiliation, Title:
Mika Maeda, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Education and Research Support Staff

Target research topic:
Research on the expression, development, and control of social behavior in bees, as well as behavioral releasers governing interindividual communication
Winner Name, Affiliation, Title:
Hiromi Sasagawa, Researcher, Research and Development Department, International Communications Foundation (ICF)

Reasons for the Recommendation
Member Rie Kusakabe has consistently focused her research on jawless fish, lampreys. She succeeded in introducing foreign genes, analyzed the expression mechanism of muscle-specific genes, and achieved outstanding results in the study of skeletal muscle evolution from jawless to jawed vertebrates in vertebrates. While raising children and holding a fixed-term position, she has produced numerous achievements, constantly developing her research with enthusiasm, and is expected to show leadership as a role model for female zoologists.
Member Mika Maeda has consistently pursued research on pattern formation mechanisms using cutting-edge methods. Her experimental animals range from Hydra to chickens, and she is currently producing outstanding results by analyzing the formation mechanisms of cell body arrangement patterns in zebrafish embryos. Despite her precarious position, her enthusiasm for research extends to interdisciplinary collaborations, and she is expected to contribute to the development of a new zoology.

Member Hiromi Sasagawa has consistently conducted original research related to honeybee behavior. She has pursued research integrating diverse fields and methodologies, such as organic chemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and behavioral science, including the establishment of a micro-quantification method for juvenile hormone, the chemical similarity between semiochemicals and orchid fragrances, and the identification and analysis of social behavior-releasing factors. Although in an unstable position, she is expected to further develop her motivation and drive for research, as well as her outreach activities in zoology.

Since the number of submissions for each award was low last year, we sent out several calls for nominations via the member mailing list this fiscal year. Although the situation has improved compared to fiscal 2007, further submissions are desired in order to secure multiple candidates for nomination. Self-nominations are also increasing for the Encouragement Award and the OM Award, and motivated
Applications are welcome.