Presenter: Tomoko Akama, Project Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science
Theme: How to utilize life event support to work in a way that suits you
We held the 11th "Meet the FResHU" role model roundtable discussion.
Professor Akama became interested in life sciences after watching "NHK Special: Life - A 40 Billion Year Journey" on NHK when he was a child. Encouraged by his parents, who were university professors, he also studied physics and chemistry. At university, he studied theoretical chemistry and eventually chose the path of quantum chemistry, which has a wide range of applications in life sciences.
Throughout her career, which involved moving between research labs and workplaces, she has actively utilized counseling services and support centers whenever she encountered difficulties.
Since taking up her position at Hokkaido University and giving birth, her life has drastically changed, even though she and her husband support each other! With the understanding of her research lab and the cooperation of her family, she has overcome the challenges, and now, with her children attending the on-campus daycare center and utilizing various support programs such as family support, she is balancing raising her two children, aged 3 and 1, with her research life.
Professor Akama made a strong impression on me as he smiled and spoke about how fortunate he is to have such supportive relationships with those around him. He mentioned being supported by his colleagues in the research lab, his professors, and his family.
Many questions were asked by the participants, but she answered them cheerfully, saying, "Everything will work out." She mainly spoke about the difficulties she has overcome in marriage and raising children, but in response to a question from a worried student, she said, "It is also the presence of family that helps maintain motivation for research. It's not all hardship. Business trips with children are also precious time with them."
Thank you very much, Professor Akama and all the participants!
This concludes this year's planned role model roundtable discussions. We are already planning more for next year!
