01 Motivation for Going on to Doctoral Course and Research Focus

A Doctoral Path in Microbial Water Safety

　I began considering a doctoral path during my Master’s program at Kanazawa University. As I deepened my research into environmental microbiology and water safety, I realized that a Ph.D. would allow me to explore these issues at a much deeper scientific level and make a meaningful contribution to public health. Kanazawa University offered the ideal environment: its advanced facilities, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and strong international focus aligned perfectly with my goals. I was particularly inspired by the supportive academic culture and the mentorship I received, which gave me the confidence to pursue complex challenges. During the doctoral program, I gained not only technical expertise in DNA sequencing and bioinformatics but also broader skills in project design, international collaboration, and scientific communication. It was an intellectually intense but highly rewarding journey that shaped my identity as an independent researcher.
　During my Ph.D. at Kanazawa University, I investigated the ecological and genomic dynamics of bacterial pathogens in urban water systems. My research focused on quantifying and tracking potential pathogenic bacteria through wastewater treatment processes and urban surface waters, especially in tropical environments like Bangkok. I developed and applied a novel pathogen-targeted 16S rRNA-based database coupled with a quantitative sequencing (qSeq) method to comprehensively detect and quantify pathogenic genera. Additionally, I explored the resistance mechanisms of environmental Mycobacteria against chlorine disinfection by combining culture-based isolation, genome sequencing, and transcriptomic analysis. This work provided crucial insights into the persistence, risk, and ecological behavior of pathogens, contributing new methods for surveillance and control of microbial contamination in urban water cycles.

02 Lessons and Benefits thorough doctoral course

Growing Stronger as a Person Through Balancing Research and Parenthood

　What I found most meaningful was how my research addressed real-world health challenges, specifically the invisible microbial threats circulating in the water we use daily. I was deeply motivated by the idea that improving pathogen monitoring in water systems could help protect vulnerable communities from preventable diseases. The interdisciplinary nature of the work from molecular microbiology to environmental engineering kept me intellectually engaged. I especially valued developing tools like the pathogen database and applying them in real field contexts. Working in diverse environments, such as wastewater plants in Japan and rivers in Thailand and Sri Lanka, made the research both scientifically rigorous and socially relevant.
　The doctoral program helped me grow into an independent researcher with specialized skills in microbial risk assessment and DNA sequencing-based pathogen detection. It also gave me the chance to contribute to global health and water safety through international research collaborations. Beyond academic achievements, I developed critical thinking, scientific writing, and leadership skills.
　However, the journey was not without challenges. Managing complex experiments, data analysis, and manuscript writing under tight deadlines was demanding. Occasional setbacks in fieldwork or experimental reproducibility tested my confidence. I overcame these through careful planning, learning from mistakes, and staying connected with mentors and peers. One of the greatest challenges was balancing research with my responsibilities as a new parent. Raising my son during the Ph.D. required strong time management, emotional resilience, and support from both my family and academic mentors. Sleepless nights and family health needs sometimes disrupted my research rhythm, but I adapted and stayed focused. These experiences ultimately made me stronger and more grounded, not just as a scientist but as a person. They reminded me of the deeper purpose behind my work: to contribute to a safer and healthier future for the next generation.

03 Career Path after Ph.D. and Message to Students for HaKaSe⁺ Juniors

Motivation and Professional Growth through HaKaSe⁺

　I am currently working as a specially appointed Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Biological Science and Technology at Kanazawa University. My main responsibilities include conducting research on microbial ecology, plastisphere microbiome and waterborne pathogens, supervising students, and contributing to collaborative international projects. I am also involved in academic programs and student engagement within the department. What I find most fulfilling is the opportunity to mentor young researchers and apply my expertise to real-world environmental and public health challenges, making a meaningful impact through both science and education.
　I chose this position because it allows me to live my passion: conducting meaningful research that addresses real-world environmental and public health issues. My top priorities in making a career decision were staying engaged in active research, having the opportunity to mentor students, and contributing to international scientific collaboration. This role aligned perfectly with my long-term goals, offering both academic freedom and the chance to continue working on topics I care deeply about, such as microbial safety in aquatic systems and sustainable environmental and public health solutions.
　The skills and knowledge I gained during my doctoral program are directly applied in my current work. From advanced microbial analysis techniques and bioinformatics to research design and scientific writing, the foundation built during my Ph.D. enables me to lead projects, publish findings, and guide student research with confidence. I also draw on the interdisciplinary mindset and international collaboration skills developed during my doctoral studies. Since entering the workforce, I’ve come to appreciate even more the value of my Ph.D. training—not only for the technical expertise it provided, but also for shaping my ability to think critically, manage complex tasks, and contribute meaningfully to both science and society.
　In the future, I aim to become a leading researcher in environmental microbiology, focusing on aquatic environmental health. I hope to expand international collaborations, mentor the next generation of scientists, and develop practical solutions that address microbial risks in diverse and vulnerable communities worldwide.
　Being selected for HaKaSe⁺ was a source of encouragement and motivation: it affirmed the value of my work and gave me a strong sense of academic purpose. Additionally, working as a research assistant in the same laboratory offered hands-on experience and continuous learning through mentorship and collaboration. Together, these supports created a stable and stimulating environment that helped me grow both as a researcher and as a professional.
　Pursuing doctoral studies is not just about gaining knowledge; it's about developing the ability to think independently, solve real-world problems, and create meaningful impact. Stay curious, resilient, and open to collaboration. If your research aligns with your passion, it becomes a lifelong mission. I believe science is not only a quest for truth, but a promise to serve.