I am working on developing novel chemical reactions that use light as an energy source. While most chemical reactions rely on heat energy, light energy can provide far greater energy levels than heat, enabling molecular transformations that were previously unimaginable. However, the highly reactive species generated by absorbing light energy are extremely challenging to handle, requiring significant ingenuity to achieve the desired molecular transformations. By harnessing the power of catalysts, I aim to precisely control these highly reactive species and create groundbreaking chemical reactions. With this goal in mind, we are dedicating ourselves to daily research and innovation.

I decided to join a research lab expertizing in organic chemistry because it is a discipline where one can create something entirely new. My research theme at the time was total synthesis—a research for constructing complex molecules starting from simple ones. I became fascinated by how problems could be solved through my own ideas and trial-and-error, and how molecules gradually took shape just as I envisioned. It felt like solving a puzzle where no one knew the correct answer, and I conducted experiments every day with that sense of excitement. This experience fueled my desire to delve deeper into this world, ultimately inspiring me to pursue a career as a researcher.

I enjoy skiing during the winter season. Since I grew up in Nagano, I was familiar with skiing, but after starting university life, I’ve only gone skiing about once a year, if at all. Living in Sapporo, where you can ski on high-quality snow even in the nearby area, I decided to bring out my own skis again. Now that my kids are old enough to ski, going to the slopes together has become a new and exciting way to enjoy the sport.