My dream is to discover exotic compounds that cannot be explained by any existing theory. The substances containing U atom that I study include anomalous materials, such as URu₂Si₂ that undergoes a phase transition into a mysterious ordered state called “hidden order,” and UTe₂ that exhibits superconductivity under high magnetic fields. I aim to find such remarkable materials by myself.

The researcher I most respect is Marie Curie, a pioneering figure in the field of radiation science. Despite facing numerous challenges—financial difficulties, discrimination against female scientists, and the hazards of radiation— she remained devoted to scientific research, and her dedication continues to be widely admired today. A phrase often cited as reflecting her life and spirit is: “On ne doit rien craindre dans la vie – il suffit de comprendre.” (Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood.) Scientific research always involves many difficulties, but I hope to follow her example and continue challenging any difficulties—while prioritizing safety above all else.

I do glasswork. Using a gas burner, I heat long glass tubes and form them into test tube shapes. They are used to vacuum-seal samples. It’s a good way to relax and clear my mind for me.

I really enjoy examining the inside of a crucible after taking it out of the furnace. To create new compounds, I load the starting materials into the crucible, heat them in the furnace, and cool them slowly to grow crystals. Once I remove the crucible from the furnace, I often end up spending hours searching for the crystals that have formed.

One of my hobbies is collecting cute cookie tins. I store the crystals picked up from the crucible in my favorite tins.