Our Fundamental Research Laboratory carries out fundamental research directed towards the computer sciences and other research areas where computer science is a key for transformation. That includes not only specific fields like computational neuroscience, systems biology, and econophysics, but also leading research in general computer science for the next generation.

Currently, research is being conducted on robust systems as a core subject. Important topics are the understanding of robust systems universally observed in an open system, from cells and brains to economics and man-made artifacts, and based on such understanding constructing methods of designing systems with robust dynamic adaptability. In fundamental research, as the originality and determination of the researcher are the driving forces for top level research, we are providing a research environment as a receptacle for the originality of the researchers and their themes. Of the two aspects of scientific contribution, expansion of human knowledge and industrial application, we give first priority to research that opens new frontiers. As for results with high potential for industrial application, they are shifted to the Sony Corporation, and when they are believed to have the potential to establish new research fields, they are developed into a new laboratory within the CSL. As mentioned above, the operation of our FRL is flexible yet systematic and dynamic, and constitutes a laboratory for researchers of strong personality and who have the aspiration of making history by their own hands.