Aiming to develop "Sakai Catalyst"

I am researching organic reaction development. Specifically, we are developing new organic reactions by sterically controlling nanoscale molecules by combining metal catalysts and self-made ligands (compounds that bind to metals). In addition to experiments, I also incorporate computational chemistry into my research, and I sometimes check the moment when molecules react with each other on a computer screen. My dream is for a new catalyst called "Sakai Catalyst" to be recognized and used by researchers around the world.

To develop your own expertise and internationality

Now, I would like to become a person who can play an active role in any place, whether in Japan or overseas. For that reason, I believe that it is necessary to combine expertise and internationality. I would like to acquire expertise that is competitive with others by working hard on research. Also, in order to acquire an international perspective, I live my life with the aim of "broadening my horizons." Deepening cross-cultural understanding is especially important in today's rapidly globalizing society. During the summer vacation of my second year of undergraduate studies, I used an on-campus program and experienced a two-week internship at a factory in Thailand. I learned about life in a completely different environment from Hokkaido, cultural differences with Thailand, and the difficulty of communicating with people whose native language is not English. At the same time, I realized that international understanding is completely lacking. I feel it even as a graduate student. By studying at ALP, I would like to develop my own expertise and international perspective.

The abacus taught me the importance of taking action

My hobby is "abacus". I started using the abacus when I was in the first grade of elementary school, and have continued to use it even now as a graduate student. Before the corona disaster, I participated in the all-road and all-Japan tournaments every year. Soroban requires a lot of practice, and I sometimes practice for more than 10 hours before a competition. It is no exaggeration to say that the soroban has helped me develop my concentration and tenacity. In Japan, "reading, writing, and soroban" has been considered an important basic skill since the Edo period. In fact, it has been scientifically proven that the soroban can improve concentration and endurance. In the age of IT, I want more people to know that the abacus is more than just a calculation tool, and that the appeal of the abacus competition can be seen by more people.

Therefore, when I was in my second year of university, I started the Hokkaido University Soroban Circle by recruiting people who wanted to learn soroban. Thanks to my strong desire to create an environment where people who are interested in the abacus can start right away, and the encouragement of my colleagues, I think I was able to make it happen. It was a circle that was set up on a whim, but more people wanted to join than I had imagined, and I received words of gratitude for starting it. It was an experience that made me realize that I can connect with people not only by thinking, but by taking action, and that the results of my actions are beneficial to others. I would like to take action in my daily life and take advantage of opportunities to broaden my horizons.