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 theme is the development of computational methods to predict mechanisms of action of antibiotics. In simple terms, I'm developing machine learning and deep learning models to understand how an antibiotic kills bacteria.

Antibiotics have various working mechanisms that necessitate multiple drugs for treating the infection. This also causes side effects. So, understanding the mode of action (MOA)—that is, exactly how an antibiotic works—is crucial for selecting the most appropriate and effective drugs. But for many of the known and the unknown antibiotics, the mechanism of action is still unknown. And figuring out this precise mechanism of action is a really complex and time consuming process if we do it in the laboratory.

My goal is to leverage artificial intelligence and computational power to develop a method for predicting the MOAs of antibiotics, which will support the fight against drug-resistant bacteria. This method utilizes mainly their structural and, if necessary, their physical properties.

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

My decision to pursue a doctoral program was really driven by the desire to transition from applying existing solutions to creating new foundational knowledge.

In my previous career in aviation, I successfully used data science to optimize business operations in the airline industry. But I always reached a point where I needed more advanced and novel methods to solve business problems. It also opened up questions about more robust and interpretable AI models.

And also the doctoral program at NAIST provides the perfect environment to address these challenges. It allows me to dive deeply into a single impactful solution. For example, this antibiotic resistance. And under the guidance of these world-class experts in the computational systems biology lab.

It's not just about getting a higher degree. It's also about acquiring rigorous research skills and the invaluable life skills, like project management, time management, or resource management, to become an independent scientist, who can actually contribute original ideas to the world.

Naturally, I had some initial hesitations. I constantly questioned: 'Will I be able to produce truly impactful work that genuinely contributes to society? Will I be able to fulfill my full potential?' These doubts frequently crossed my mind. But when I consulted with my teachers and fellow students, I got really good support and I acted upon those suggestions and now I'm here.

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.

I started my PhD here in October 2025 and I could bring my family with me unlike other scholarships, where the scholars have to come at first alone then after a certain period they can bring their family. But Granite didn't have any of these kinds of limitations.

And also I really like the structure of this support. First and foremost, the stipend they provide allows me to concentrate fully on my PhD research without the constant worry of financial strain. Furthermore, the separate research grant that Granite offers truly empowers me to pursue my scientific ideas without budgetary constraints. I don't have to worry about my equipment and the conference and journal proceedings. This support is crucial for ambitious computational projects of the type I am currently undertaking.

And beyond the financial aspect, this support truly feels holistic. In a sense, knowing that the university believes in my potential is a very powerful motivator. To me, it's more than a scholarship; it's a partnership in my PhD journey.

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 core ambition is to use the transferable skills I've harnessed in computational science to create tangible benefits for society. In the short term, I obviously aim to successfully complete my PhD here and contribute a meaningful tool to fight against this antibiotic resistance which is now really a growing global health threat.

Looking ahead, I am open to two primary paths, both of which are aligned with my mission. One path is to continue in academia or a public research institution, where I can lead a research team focused on developing computational methods for medical, biological, or any other pressing challenges. The other path is to join an innovative company (perhaps here in Japan) to directly translate my research into practical solutions.

Whichever path I take, the underlying goal remains the same: to work on meaningful problems that can improve human life and well-being on a global scale.

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.

Before considering a doctoral program, my advice is to ensure you have enough motivation. That motivation should come from a genuine passion for deep discovery or solving a problem. If you don't have that passion, it's really tough to continue in a PhD journey because PhD is not a sprint, it's a marathon. So I think that the most important thing is to work well consistently. For working well, you also need a diverse set of skills. Gather as much skill as you can. The skills you learn in industry or academia or even in your real life are transferable.

Furthermore, never underestimate the importance of a supportive environment, such as NAIST. Future doctoral candidates should meticulously choose their lab and university. Should you have the opportunity to study at NAIST, I strongly urge you to apply for a scholarship like Granite; it can truly turn a challenging PhD into a rewarding, successful journey.

And my last and not the least message is what Steve Jobs said, do what you love, love what you do.