Three researchers from our university have been awarded the 19th Shiseido Women Researchers Science Grant, sponsored by Shiseido Co., Ltd.
The Shiseido Women Researchers Science Grant is a research grant program that supports the research activities and career development of female researchers aiming for leadership positions in the future, covering a wide range of research themes in the natural sciences. Since its establishment in 2007, up to 10 people have been selected each year, and in the 19th year, 10 people were awarded from 137 applicants. Of those, three were from our university.
Eri Hirata, Assistant Professor
Affiliation: Department of Oral Functional Prosthodontics, Graduate School of Dental Science
Award-winning research topic
Development of next-generation bone regeneration membranes using transparent nanofibers
Award comment
I am deeply honored to have been selected for the Shiseido Women Researchers Science Grant.
For nearly 20 years, I have been engaged in dental clinical practice and research into the development of biomaterials for bone regeneration and antibacterial purposes using nanomaterials. Balancing clinical work and research, as well as raising children, is still a process of trial and error. The reason I have been able to continue is because of the support I have received from many people and the professors I have collaborated with.
My goal is to create materials that are truly useful in the field of dental care. I believe that I am able to bridge the gap between clinical practice and development because I am involved in both. I have come to realize that research is not something that can be completed in isolation, but rather it takes shape through connections with people.
To students and young researchers who aspire to conduct research, I hope you won't give up too quickly thinking, "It might be difficult in my current environment." Even if there are times when things don't go as planned, continuing even in a small way will definitely lead to something next. This research topic, too, began as a collaborative research project that I unexpectedly received after failing to get the expected response on another project. That time when I felt like it ended in failure became the starting point for my current research.
The Faculty of Dentistry has its own departmental structure.DEII was involved in the establishment of the steering committee, and activities have now begun. The encouragement we received from everyone involved with this grant has been a great support. Going forward, I would like to continue to cherish connections with people and dedicate myself to creating an environment where everyone can continue their research.
Ai Iwai, Assistant Professor
Affiliation: Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering
Award-winning research topic
Creation of environmentally friendly anodic oxidation technology using gel and semi-solid electrolytes
Award comment
I am deeply honored to have been selected for the Shiseido Women Researchers Science Grant.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone involved, and especially to my fellow researchers in the laboratory with whom I work on this project on a daily basis.
In the field of engineering to which I belong, there are still not many female researchers.
Why is the percentage of women pursuing careers in research so low? How can we increase the number of female researchers? There are no easy causes or solutions.
However, even without considering complex issues or societal demands, I believe that "conversations and research are more interesting when conducted in a group with diverse individuals." When people with different experiences and perspectives come together and question what each person takes for granted from a different angle, new research ideas can emerge. That's why I strive every day in research and education to encourage more people to take an interest in science and engineering.
I am conducting research on surface treatment of aluminum. I want to propose a new surface treatment method by deliberately using thick, viscous liquids in experiments where thin, fluid liquids are typically used. One of the starting points of my research is the simple question, "What happens if we slightly change an experimental method that is considered commonplace?"
With your support, we hope to further develop this research and connect it to technologies that will create new surfaces and materials. Furthermore, we want to convey not only the research results themselves, but also the fascination and depth of science and engineering through our research and education.
Instructor Yuri Son
Affiliation: Department of Stem Cell Biology, Institute for Genetic Disease Control
Award-winning research topic
Functional changes of local estrogen in adipose tissue during perimenopause
Award comment
I am deeply honored to have been selected for the 19th Shiseido Women Researchers Science Grant.
I am currently researching changes in metabolic function and their mechanisms associated with aging and obesity, focusing on the role of adipose tissue. Encouraged by this award, I hope to further deepen this research and gain new insights that will contribute to healthy longevity.
As a woman and a researcher of foreign origin, I have been able to continue my research in Japan thanks to the support of many people around me. I hope that in the future, an environment will expand where students and young researchers from diverse backgrounds, regardless of nationality or gender, can feel inspired to continue their research in Japan, and at Hokkaido University. I myself hope to become one of the role models for this purpose.
To all of you aspiring to become researchers, I hope you will cherish the unique perspectives that only you can offer. Pay attention not only to results that meet your expectations, but also to those that deviate from them. When the questions arise from these results, don't immediately seek answers; instead, take the time to carefully consider them.
Girls, Be Ambitious!
And of course, Everyone, Be Ambitious!
Congratulations to all the award-winning teachers!
【Related Links】
- Shiseido Women Researchers Science Grant: 19th Award Winners Announced
List of Shiseido Female Researcher Science Grant Recipients
