Considered to be the ‘father of the modern lithium-ion battery,’ Yoshino is a Japanese chemist, fellow of Asahi Kasei Corporation and professor of Meijo University. In recognition of his contributions to battery technology, he was awarded the 2018 Japan Prize, which is given to individuals whose achievements are scientifically impressive and promote peace and prosperity for all mankind. Apart from the fundamental technology for lithium-ion battery, Yoshino has also developed technology for fabricating electrodes, assembling batteries and making the batteries small and rechargeable. These efforts have been instrumental to the success and commercialization of lithium-ion batteries. (Photo: Asahi Kasei Corporation)