While it may not be immediately apparent in lectures, all the professors here are deeply passionate about chemistry and education. In addition to conducting experiments in my own laboratory, I have the opportunity to experience a wide range of activities, such as visiting other departments and universities, interacting with international students, and participating in seminars from other departments.
I am conducting research on proteins that construct life. Specifically, I work with enzymes, which are catalysts in living organisms. I aim to change the substrate specificity of enzymes using small molecules to promote reactions that differ from those found in nature.
I find the process of formulating hypotheses and testing them enjoyable. It’s rewarding when things go as expected, but it’s also exciting when unexpected results occur, as it prompts me to think about why those results occurred.”
I want to leverage my background in both chemistry and biotechnology to become a researcher involved in using proteins for substance production.
In high school science classes, I often found myself unsatisfied as the conclusions were explained according to the textbook without delving into the detailed processes leading to those conclusions. Wanting to study the detailed processes leading to the conclusions presented in textbooks, I chose to pursue my studies at Nagoya University’s Faculty of Science, where fundamental sciences are studied extensively.
Initially, I was interested in biology. However, in my first year of university, I learned that understanding biological phenomena also requires knowledge of physics and chemistry. Since I wanted to research the mechanisms of reactions occurring in living organisms, I chose the Department of Chemistry, where phenomena are discussed at the molecular scale.
I feel that I can study chemistry freely in an environment that allows me to pursue my interests. Whether in lectures or in my studies, there is a very friendly atmosphere, so I can engage in discussions with various people while having fun. The Department of Chemistry gives the impression of having a wide network of friends.
I primarily research metal complexes (compounds with organic molecules attached to metal atoms). I combine metal complexes with solid surfaces to explore new structures and functions of molecules. During experiments, I encounter various failures and unexpected occurrences not mentioned in textbooks, so figuring out why these results occur is the most enjoyable part for me.
Having conducted research on material synthesis in the Department of Chemistry so far, I aim to work for a company in the future and invent new materials to contribute to society. I also enjoy speaking about chemistry in public, so I am considering engaging in activities as a chemistry communicator.
I chose the Faculty of Science at Nagoya University because when I visited Nagoya University during an open campus event in high school, I toured my current laboratory (the Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory) and felt that the environment was well-equipped, with impressive facilities and equipment. I thought I could conduct enjoyable research here.
As for why I chose the Department of Chemistry, I have liked chemistry since high school, and I wanted to learn chemistry not only from textbooks but also through hands-on experience in a well-equipped facility.
Overall, there is a very active atmosphere. Not only within the year group and within the laboratory, but also in interactions outside the laboratory and the department, there is lively exchange. It’s not just about going to class; everyone enjoys student life together in a friendly atmosphere.
I am developing new organic dyes that contain the element “phosphorus.” Generally, organic molecules are composed mainly of carbon and hydrogen, but by introducing phosphorus, they can exhibit vivid colors or strong luminescence. I get really excited when the molecules I synthesize show experimental results that match my hypothesis, or when I discover interesting properties that I didn’t expect.
I am currently considering various career paths, focusing on research positions in private companies, academia, and government research institutions. I want to pursue a career where I can utilize my logical thinking skills and my extensive knowledge of chemistry. As Nagoya University is also rich in international exchange opportunities, I hope to actively communicate and broaden my horizons.
I chose the Faculty of Science at Nagoya University because it has a track record of producing Nobel Prize winners, a well-equipped educational environment, and highly motivated professors.
In fact, I had decided to choose the Department of Chemistry since I entered Nagoya University. This was because I had always liked chemistry, and I wanted to study chemistry in an advanced environment.