Duration of stay: September 2017 (2 weeks)
Aims:
- Building a research network in Germany
- Preparation of a long term research stay at Freiburg University
Motivation for AI DA application
Until recently, my basic research focused mainly on Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). In the future, I want to contribute to the development of cancer treatment that combines immunization and standard therapy. Therefore, I plan a prolonged research stay at Freiburg University, a pioneer in this field. I applied for AI DA since Kyoto University and the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) formed a consortium. Utilizing this cooperation, I want to further deepen my knowledge by filling the gap between clinical and fundamental research. Another aim was to build a network with German researchers.
Results
Networking with well-known researchers in the field of cancer immunotherapy and heavy ion therapy and initializing future collaboration
At DKFZ I had a very fruitful discussion with renowned researchers from both immunotherapy and radiation therapy. This one on one meetings would not have been possible by participating at a conference or an academic meeting alone. In addition, I was able to initiate a future collaboration. To actually see the groundbreaking and worldwide exceptional facilities at the DKFZ Heidelberg Ion Therapy Centre has left a deep and lasting impression.
Connect with Japanese researchers at Freiburg University
After visiting EMBL, I was able so building a network and initialize regular meetings through the introduction of Japanese researchers for exchange of experience and information with other Japanese researchers at Freiburg University preliminary to my long-term stay.
Laying the foundation for a healthy work-life-balance at Freiburg University
The staff of Kyoto University European Center provided information on living in Germany and especially hard to get information on nursing form the person responsible at Freiburg University, which makes it possible to me to bring my family with me without further worries.
Outlook
On the foundation of the networks build on this short-term stay, I want to deepen the relationships and contacts with researchers in Germany over time. In the future, I would like to acquire third party funding to invite German researchers and thereby intensify scientific exchange.