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Japan, in its ever increasing attempt to promote and develop its gross national cool will be opening the first international anime research lab come this may.

Masaki Tsuji, a legendary writer for old school anime shows like Astroboy and Kimba, will lead the institute. Among his colleagues will be some of the most influential people in the industry, and naming their projects is more than enough presentation.

Detective Conan, Inuyasha, Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo, Kekkaishi, Fullmetal Alchemist, Shaman King even someone from Fist of the North Star.

So what will the world’s first anime ivory tower be dedicated to? Well anime research and academic development of the subject, of course! This place will deal with everything, from choosing the path anime will take in digital distribution to ethical concerns of outsourcing and all that very interesting stuff.

Pictured above, an actual anime lab scientist hard at work.

[ANN]