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My favorite phrase: The one and only heretical chemistry

Q: Why did you choose this phrase?

I chose this phrase because I always want to conduct unprecedented research so that people can say, "That is unusual research" or "How did you think of such a thing?” I believe that research that follows someone else's lead not only makes you a mere follower of that researcher, but also poses a problem in terms of education, because students will not be able to experience the important process of creating something from scratch. Until the results are obtained, I am often criticized by the people around me, which is painful, but I would like to continue my heretical chemistry with the belief that showing people how I am criticized should be part of my education.

Q: What is your research topic?

I have created an artificial metalloprotein by incorporating a synthetic metal complex, gallium phthalocyanine, into the heme acquisition protein that Pseudomonas aeruginosa releases to acquire iron (an essential nutrient). I am developing a system that can efficiently kill P. aeruginosa by irradiating it with red light. This system has been shown to be able to kill multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa that have become ineffective against antibacterial drugs, and we are aiming to put it to practical use.

Q: How did you embark on this research?

When I saw the structure of the P. aeruginosa heme-acquisition protein, I intuitively predicted that this heme-binding mode would enable the binding of various synthetic metal complexes. Subsequent research on inhibiting the growth of P. aeruginosa and photocatalytic sterilization was the result of discussions with staff and students. Until then, there had been no research on this type of usage.

Q: When do you realize that research is interesting or rewarding?

When I was a student and the polymer I synthesized showed high performance as expected in my research, I could not help but smile when I saw the results on my computer screen. Since the laboratory allowed me to conduct my research freely, I had designed the polymers by myself and taught myself most of the synthesis methods, so I was very happy. This experience made me fall in love with research.

Q: Your research results published in "Hijacking the Heme Acquisition System of Pseudomonas aeruginosa for the Delivery of Phthalocyanine as an Antimicrobial," which was released in July 2019, was reported by many media outlets. At the press conference, the graduate students involved in writing the paper gave a presentation and played an active role. What do you expect from the students?

I would like them to raise their hands and challenge themselves in various situations without fear of failure, and to experience and absorb various things. Mr. Shisaka, a D3 student, was in charge of the press presentation of the research results, but before the presentation, he might have been thinking about what he would do if he failed in some way (although his case may be different because he is very determined). I was raised by my parents to say, "No one will remember your mistakes over time, so when in doubt, just step forward." Similarly, I tell my students that I want them to step forward without fear of embarrassment. I believe that a faculty member's job is to take responsibility when a student fails and to lead them to success by taking the time to give them advice and practice beforehand. Fortunately, at this press conference, Mr. Shisaka's presentation was perfect, so I was able to merely watch from the sidelines.

Q: What do you do when you feel discouraged? How do you relieve stress?

When I feel discouraged, I think, "I always have to be a cool father in front of my children." If I think that I do not want to look like a pathetic father, I manage to overcome even the most difficult and unsure situations. I often get nervous during interviews to obtain research funding, but I try to act like a confident and cool researcher (father). The best way to relieve stress is to play with my children. I find it soothing to play catch in the park or go to the pool (and tiring). When my children are older and no longer want to play with me, I would like to devote myself to my hobbies.

Q: Please tell us about an experience that you can only talk about now.

At university, I was a member of the karate club (practicing five days a week), so it was more like I came to the university to go to the dojo than to classes. I regret not studying harder as an undergraduate student, but I learned a lot through karate, and my experience in the karate club has been useful in managing my laboratory.

Q: What are your goals and ambitions for the future?

My goal is to contribute to society by developing the results of my patented research into practical applications, such as the photocatalysis of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa and development of a biocatalyst that can convert benzene into phenol. I would also like to focus on talent development through the process of creating and sustaining research with unexpected ideas.