I believe a wonderful thing about a university is that it has a diversity of researchers.
I don't think that all researchers need URA, but if you are interested in any of the information or services we send out, please consider contacting us. I think there are many situations where the URA can be helpful, especially for young researchers and those who have just arrived at the University of Tsukuba.

What kind of career have you passed through so far?

Realizing the Issues in Japan's Research Environment

After receiving my PhD from Tokyo Metropolitan University, I worked as a postdoctoral researcher at Brandeis University in the United States, and as a postdoctoral researcher and assistant professor at Tohoku University before joining the Research Administration/Management Office at University of Tsukuba.

During my time as a researcher, I specialized in Drosophila genetics and had been involved in evolutionary genetics research, development of genetic tools, functional analysis of genes, and behavioral genetics research.

While studying in the U.S., I experienced the efficient research environment in the U.S. which made me notice the contrasting research environment in Japan. I also experienced firsthand the difficult situation faced by young researchers in Japan. As a URA, I would like to contribute to the resolution of these issues by utilizing my knowledge and experience as a researcher.

What are important things/values/significance/ in your work?

Thinking from a researcher's perspective

In view of my own experience, I try to think about things from the perspective of a researcher.

I think my knowledge as a former researcher can help when supporting researchers to apply for research grants such as KAKENHI.
In particular, I believe it is effective to support foreign researchers who have difficulty in finding information and young researchers who have little experience. I also think that even experienced professors can sometimes benefit from a perspective from outside their field.

It is also a good opportunity for us to learn about unique and interesting research in the university.

What are your future goals and prospects?

Creating a researcher-friendly environment

I would like to provide a research environment that maximize researcher's performance.

I have been involved in the development of an electronic submission system called u-Rad. Designing a system that is easy to use for both researchers and administrative staff, and digitalizing internal operations will contribute to increase research time.

In addition, when we applied for a government program in collaboration with multiple institutions in Tsukuba, I was re-aware of the potential of the Tsukuba area with its concentration of research institutions. I hope to make further use of this excellent research resource.