G.LSC さん／研究生
Why did you choose Division of Biological Science at NAIST?
I was first introduced to the world genetic engineering and biotechnology by Mendel's Law of segregation and independent assortment during high school. Since that day, I became very interested in this field, which led me to Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) to pursue my Bachelor’s Degree. It just so happens that USM and NAIST are partner Universities. Additionally, my supervisor of my final year thesis, Professor Sudesh Kumar have been in close contact with NAIST for years. He recommended me to apply and I will be forever grateful for that advice.
What do you like about Division of Biological Science at NAIST?
This division itself is divided into several departments, such as systems biology, biomedical sciences and plant biology, in which consists of many laboratories with interesting research topics led by renowned scientists. In addition to their expertise, laboratories are well maintained and equipped with all kinds of facilities. The local students, lab technicians along with the teachers are kind and helpful towards International students like myself. I appreciate that they do their best to make the laboratory as engaging, fun and conducive as possible. This helped a lot especially when I am in the midst of adapting to life in Japan, let alone for educational purposes.
What is your research topic?
My research is to study the symbiotic interactions between yeast and lactic acid bacteria. These organisms plays a fundamental role in food and beverages industry, namely, making bread, yogurt, sake, soy sauce and more. Once we know the mechanism(s) and the ins-and-outs of said interaction on the molecular level, we can take advantage of this knowledge to enhance the quality and the efficiency of the manufacturing process, saving time and cutting cost while maintaining or improving on the flavour.
How is the atmosphere in your lab?
The atmosphere in my lab in generally fun and exciting, everyone tries their hardest to welcome me and make sure I feel at home despite their busy schedule. Fortunately, I am able to converse in simple Japanese, I'm sure it helped open up Japanese students more, enabling them to be readily to engage in conversation using English.
What are your goals for the future?
If possible I do wish to further my education up to Ph.D. level and eventually find work in Japan. Regardless of which comes first, all I wish to achieve for now is to complete my Master's as best as I can then let fate decide my next step !
What are your recomended place around NAIST?
Getting a bicycle (especially an electric one) is EXTREMELY convinient, it is worth the investment instead of relying on bus, plus you get to exercise and stay healthy ! Nevertheless, you can easily find various affordable groceries in supermarkets nearby such as Yaohiko, Okuwa and Aeon, either by bicycle, walking or bus. Nara and Osaka are two of the largest and famous tourist spots, packed with various places to eat and of course taking Instagram-worthy photos too! Round trips to each of these places will take around 1600yen, not too expensive if you save up and budget well throughout your time here!
What are your tips for enjoying life at NAIST?
As a fellow International student, my biggest advice is to "Please enjoy and don't trap yourself in your room too much !" You are finally in Japan after trying so hard, you are living people's dream, so use it to the fullest! Try out NAIST clubs, and join as much event as you like, it's okay if you don't like some, but at least you can find out what you may like and make new friends, both local and other international ones too ! Of course you have to work and study hard for your Master's or Ph.D. but remember your life is not all just about research. Take the rest you deserve when you need to ! Treat it as in a once in a lifetime chance to explore a new country and make new and long-lasting connections.
(2025年6月 掲載)
※掲載内容はインタビュー当時のものです。