Initially, I did not know what URA was, but recently I got to know it as a catalyst.
Even though it is difficult for researchers and URA to solve problems individually, there are many cases where the interaction between them can lead to great returns. Even if the problem is not solved immediately, it can bring about a good flow in a long period and create unexpected benefits.

What kind of career have you passed through so far?

Experience in various design industries

After studying product design at art college, I worked in interior design, advertising, and book design before moving to Tsukuba in 2010 to join the University of Tsukuba.

I was in charge of public relations for the TIA project, in which the University of Tsukuba, AIST, NIMS, and KEK participated, working with researchers and staff inside and outside the university, gradually I strongly felt the significance of publicizing research results.

To achieve in research, it is necessary to announce effectively, the attractiveness and social significance of the research and to gather understanding and interest from society. My desire to become a URA came from the thought that I could use my experience to help promote research results and researchers, and I was assigned to the Headquarters URA in 2014.

So far, I have participated in many discussions with researchers, including the "Project for Strengthening the Promotion of Research Results," large-scale project applications, and support for improving applications for Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research and JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowships.

I have often experienced how discussions between people in different fields of expertise have become more active and how plans and proposals fulfilled, and I feel that my work as a URA is worthwhile.

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

Creating a chemical reaction through proactive communication.

Be a person who understands and a fan of the researcher.
To take on new challenges.
To work to motivate the people around you.
In all of these cases, I believe that it is essential to communicate with others proactively.

I also ask questions about things that interested me, without hesitation.
The more conversations we have, the more relaxed the atmosphere becomes, and the more the researchers discover new insights through the explanations, and before they know it, they have solved the problems themselves.

What are your future goals and prospects?

Building Better Relationships with Researchers and Staff

We have made trial and error with researchers and staff members to improve the university's research capabilities.
As we continue to probe our potential and next steps as a URA, we would like to be recognized as an expert by researchers and staff, and build a better relationship with them.

Therefore, I will thoroughly develop evidence-based strategies and enhance my skills in facilitation and presentation.