Setsu Kato, Hiroshima Univercity

Job details

I am a tenure-track assistant professor at the Graduate School of Advanced Sciences of Matter (currently the Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life) of Hiroshima University. My research subject is microbiology with the purpose to reveal new properties in microorganisms using single cell quantitative analysis method. In particular, I make observations of small microorganisms and attempt to analyze in detail the behaviors of individual cells. With the single cell analysis, results
different from analysis made by observing multiple cells as a group may be obtained. Utilizing such findings of microorganism properties, I hope to develop research that can contribute to the society. Unlike when I was a student or postdoctoral researcher, I have to procure research funding for my own research. There are more responsibilit ies and stress involved, but I feel rewarding more than anything else.

What do you find rewarding about your job?

What is exciting about research is that you can be the first to discover a new phenomenon in the world. I feel very thrilled when (I thought) I discovered something that no one has found yet. Communicating with various researchers is also exciting. I always get nervous when I propose new research ideas or present new data in a conference, but it is encouraging to receive feedback such as “it was interesting”, “your research will improve if you change this point” and so forth.

Do you have any advice to students?

There are many possibilities in the future for students. When they are considering their own future path, I would like for them to know that there are many different choices. Then ask yourself, what are my interests? What are my priorities? Answers to these questions will help them choose their path. If one is unsure, I recommend talking to someone close. By hearing opinions from others, they may start to see their vision more clearly.