Interview

DENSO IT Laboratory (ITLAB) is a research institute dedicated to advancing cutting-edge software technologies in the mobility domain. With the goal of addressing societal challenges through innovation in mobility, our researchers engage freely in daily research—ranging from advanced fundamental studies in areas such as AI and control, to applied research with a clear vision toward social implementation.

At ITLAB, people who genuinely love research come together. Research is not something they do because it is their job—it is their job because they genuinely love research. While enjoying diverse personal interests such as music, fishing, or cycling, they naturally read academic papers as part of their daily lives and engage in stimulating discussions with peers. This culture, shaped by passionate researchers, has been cultivated over the past 25 years.

Another distinctive feature of ITLAB is its close connection with DENSO. As a corporate research institute, ITLAB offers a unique environment where researchers can clearly envision how their research outcomes are translated into products and ultimately delivered to society.

In fact, many of our researchers take a long-term perspective: approximately 60% express a desire to leave something of lasting value for society 100 years from now. While engaging in advanced technological research, they are constantly aware of their contribution to society—this balance defines the research environment at ITLAB.

Since 2019, ITLAB has transitioned away from a traditional hierarchical structure and adopted a Teal organization model, emphasizing self-management, purpose-driven decision-making, and an environment built on trust and mutual respect. The intention behind this shift is to create an environment where not only research expertise, but also each individual’s capabilities in organization management, planning, and communication can be fully exercised when needed.

Everyone has opportunities to take on leadership roles, make decisions autonomously, and seek advice as necessary to reach the best possible outcomes. Our aim is to build a community of independent, self-directed researchers who thrive through mutual trust and responsibility.

The Kind of Researchers We Are Looking For

• Researchers who genuinely enjoy research itself and can immerse themselves in it—not merely as a job, but as a passion.
• Researchers who are conscious of societal contribution and aspire to make the world better through their work.
• Researchers with curiosity and a willingness to take on new challenges, who enjoy discussion and generate new ideas from diverse perspectives.

There are limits to what one person can achieve alone. But by engaging in deep discussions with fellow researchers who share a love for research, and by bringing together diverse strengths, we believe it is possible to create technologies that can truly transform society.

Since our founding 25 years ago, ITLAB has evolved alongside the times—from car navigation systems, to ADAS, and now to AI and control technologies. Over the next 25 years, addressing environmental challenges and advancing global collaboration will become even more important. While our research themes may continue to change, our enduring goal remains the same: to be a company that people are glad exists in this world.
We aspire to remain an organization that continuously delivers technologies that benefit society.

Why not turn your passion for research into meaningful social contribution?
Together, let’s enjoy research—-and build a future where ideas illuminate society.