International meet on futuristic science

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Diverse topics such as trends in accelerator science, science and crime, applications of ultra-intense lasers and the influence of solar variability on the near-earth environment will be discussed at an international conference on futuristic science and technology in frontier areas beginning here on Friday. The two-day conference, planned at Hotel Residency Tower, is organised by the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST), Thiruvananthapuram, and the India chapter of Japan Society for Promotion of Sciences (JSPS). The event also coincides with the second annual conference of Indian JSPS Alumni Association. The objective of the conference is to discuss the recent advancements in science and technology and their transfer to the people. It will offer a look at the current status of futuristic science and new trends. The exchange of knowledge made possible at the conference will help the scientific community, industry and regulatory authorities, a statement said. Seventeen experts will present papers at the two-day conference. Over 150 participants are expected to attend, according to a statement issued here.  Prof Atsuto Suzuki, director general, High Energy Accelerator Research Organisation, Japan, will present a paper on globalisation and technological innovation in accelerator science. Dr Vinita Sharma, Advisor, Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi, will speak on the role of women scientists in national development. DGP Jacob Punnoose will speak on science and crime. Experts from various Japanese institutes such as the Kyoto, Osaka and Toyo universities and Indian universities will also attend.  Transport Minister V S Sivakumar will inaugurate both conferences at 9.15 am on Friday. SCTIMST director Prof K Radhakrishnan will preside over the function. The Indian JSPS Alumni Association will hand over ` 1.25 lakh to the JSPS representative as contribution to the tsunami relief fund on the occasion. Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Prof A Jayakrishnan will deliver the valedictory address on Saturday.