Granite採択学生インタビュー

Materials Science

Granite 物質創成科学領域

生体プロセス工学研究室 博士課程2年Trisna Julianさん

あなたの研究テーマについて教えてください。What is your research theme?

My research focuses on impedance cytometry, a method that offers several advantages compared to traditional cytometry techniques. These include the potential to develop small and portable devices suitable for clinical applications, making this technology highly promising for point-of-care diagnostics. In simple terms, impedance cytometry measures the electrical resistance between electrodes as particles pass through, generating a signal proportional to the particle size.

Despite its advantages, this method faces challenges in precision and flexibility, which limit its broader application. To address these challenges, my research aims to develop a universal impedance flow cytometry platform that enhances both precision and adaptability. This work is academically significant as it advances the understanding and application of electrical impedance technology in biological particle analysis. Moreover, by enabling more accurate and flexible particle measurements, this platform has the potential to revolutionize clinical diagnostics, particularly in resource-limited settings, by facilitating earlier and more reliable disease detection.

なぜ博士課程へ進学しましたか?Why did you decide to pursue a doctoral program?

Before enrolling in the doctoral program, I worked at a startup company in Indonesia that developed medical devices to detect COVID-19 infection from patients' breath samples. During this time, I encountered challenges that required a deeper understanding of advanced technologies and research methodologies. This experience made me realize that my knowledge was not sufficient to address complex problems or to contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge innovation. I decided to pursue a doctoral degree to enhance my expertise, gain exposure to the latest inventions, and develop the skills needed to tackle advanced scientific and engineering challenges.

The decision was also influenced by my passion for combining engineering and healthcare to create impactful solutions. I chose Japan for my doctoral studies because of its strong emphasis on research and innovation, supported by substantial funding and advanced facilities. Additionally, Japan's collaborative research environment and global reputation in science and technology made it the ideal place to pursue my academic and professional goals.

Graniteの支援で役立っている・助かっていることを教えてください。Please share what has been helpful or beneficial through the support provided by Granite.

Granite has provided invaluable support, not only financially but also through various workshops that have significantly enhanced my academic and professional growth. One of the key experiences was a workshop where we presented our research to industry professionals. This allowed me to receive practical feedback and better understand how my work could be applied in real-world scenarios. These sessions also exposed us to multidisciplinary research conducted by other awardees, enabling me to stay informed about advancements in different fields and sparking ideas for potential collaborations.

Another memorable experience was a one-day workshop where students from diverse disciplines collaborated to brainstorm innovative ideas. Our team developed a concept that combined technologies from different fields, which we presented to professors for feedback. This exercise not only taught me the importance of interdisciplinary approaches but also helped me refine my skills in teamwork, critical thinking, and effective communication.

These activities have greatly enriched my perspective, teaching me how to work and contribute as part of a team while fostering creativity and adaptability in my research.

将来の目標、もしくはあなたが胸に秘めた野望があればぜひ教えてください。Please share your future goals or any ambitions you hold close to your heart.

My future goal is to join a company or research group that focuses on the development of medical devices. I aspire to contribute to creating innovative technologies that can improve healthcare accessibility and diagnostic precision. By combining my expertise in engineering and research, I hope to develop solutions that address real-world medical challenges and positively impact patients' lives. Ultimately, I aim to play a key role in advancing the medical device industry and driving meaningful innovation in healthcare.

博士課程進学を考えている人へのメッセージをください。Please share a message for those considering pursuing a doctoral program.

A doctoral program can be either a challenging or fulfilling journey, depending not only on your performance but also on the environment and research theme you choose. Before committing to a PhD, it is essential to carefully select a lab and topic that align with your interests and aspirations. Ensure that the lab provides a supportive environment where you can grow and push beyond your limits. Remember, you will likely spend three or more years immersed in your PhD, which can feel overwhelming if you are not comfortable with the environment or engaged with your research theme.

If you are confident in your choice, I recommend doing some preliminary work before enrollment. This could include familiarizing yourself with the latest advancements in your field and reviewing the work your chosen lab has already accomplished. This preparation will not only give you clarity and direction but also help you make a strong start to your doctoral journey.

While pursuing a PhD requires dedication and hard work, it is also a unique opportunity to contribute to your field, collaborate with experts, and grow both professionally and personally. For me, carefully choosing the right lab and theme made all the difference—it kept me motivated and gave me the resilience to overcome challenges. With the right preparation and mindset, a PhD can be an incredibly rewarding experience.