MESSAGE

Encounters with inspiring mentors enabled me to realize my aspiration of creating something based on my own original idea

I am currently working as a scientist in the field of synchrotron radiation science, but looking back, I feel that a series of meaningful encounters have guided me to where I am today. As a child in elementary school, I loved observing plants and animals, largely influenced by my biology teacher. In junior high school, I learned that Dr. Ryoji Noyori, who later received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was a senior alumnus of my school’ s judo club. This discovery inspired me to pursue something original and sparked my interest in becoming a researcher. At university, I majored in applied physics and had many opportunities to participate in experiments at synchrotron radiation facilities under the supervision of Professor Yoshiyuki Amemiya, a leading expert in the field and now the director of the Japan Synchrotron Radiation Research Institute (JASRI). I still vividly remember the excitement I felt when an idea I had as a graduate student was published as a scientific paper for the first time. The experimental method I devised at that time is now used at synchrotron facilities around the world and stands as a major milestone in my career. There are only a few periods in life when you have the freedom to devote yourself fully to something you love. Today, the environment for research in terms of equipment and financial support is better than ever. I encourage you to take full advantage of this opportunity and pursue your passions during your time as a graduate student.