“Being a Scientist is Cool”-The 13th Shibasaburo Program Seminar Given by Dr. Hiroaki Mitsuya
On December 13th, Kumamoto University hosted an inspiring lecture titled "Being a Scientist is Cool" by Dr. Hiroaki Mitsuya (満屋裕明), Director of the National Center for Global Health and Medicine Research Institute. This lecture was part of the Shibasaburo Program Seminar series, aimed at sparking public interest in science and encouraging young researchers, particularly in the medical field, to continue their journey of discovery and innovation.Dr. Hiroaki Mitsuya, a renowned virologist, is best known for his groundbreaking work in the discovery of the first anti-HIV drug in 1985, along with other life-saving anti-AIDS drugs. As a proud alumnus of Kumamoto University, where he earned both his M.D. and Ph.D., Dr. Mitsuya returned to his alma mater to inspire the next generation of researchers and students. Despite being beyond retirement age, Dr. Mitsuya remains an active researcher, wearing multiple hats: he is a Specially Invited Professor at Kumamoto University, the Director of the National Center for Global Health and Medicine Research Institute, and the Head of the Experimental Retrovirology Section at the National Cancer Institute in the USA. His continued contributions to the scientific community serve as a testament to his enduring passion for research.
During the lecture, Dr. Mitsuya shared invaluable insights from his career, focusing on the challenges he faced in developing HIV/AIDS therapies. He discussed not only the scientific hurdles—such as the limited knowledge about HIV/AIDS and the constraints of experimental conditions—but also the ethical considerations that guided his work with AIDS patients. Throughout his talk, Dr. Mitsuya emphasized several key principles for success in science: being prepared to recognize new opportunities, embracing seemingly "stupid" ideas that could lead to breakthroughs, and always asking "why." He encouraged the audience to approach each scientific challenge with curiosity, asserting that the most profound discoveries often begin with a series of simple questions.
The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, where Dr. Mitsuya responded to numerous questions from the audience. Reflecting on the differences in public perception of science between Japan and the USA, he noted that in the United States, science is widely seen as "cool" and is respected across society. This positive atmosphere around science starts from an early age, with strong educational foundations in elementary schools. Dr. Mitsuya expressed his hope that Japan could foster a similar environment where the public shares a passion for scientific exploration. For young researchers facing confusion between different research topics, he advised returning to the "main road", as focusing on core principles often leads to the most promising avenues of discovery.
This seminar provided an inspiring look into the life of a scientist who has made significant contributions to global health. As a pioneer in the fight against HIV/AIDS, Dr. Mitsuya’s story reminds us that being a scientist is not only important, but also cool.
Shibasaburo Program (柴三朗プログラム): Developed by the Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto Unviersity, this program seeks to identify and nurture students with an interest in medical and life science research, starting from high school. It offers research opportunities across all academic levels, from undergraduate to doctoral studies, providing continuous guidance and support. Named after Dr. Shibasaburo Kitasato (北里柴三郎), a renowned physician and bacteriologist best known for discovering the causative agent of bubonic plague, the program aims to cultivate the next generation of globally impactful basic medical researchers, following in his footsteps.
Introduction of Dr. Mitsuya by Seminar Chair Prof. Okada
Dr. Mitsuya Giving the Lecture
Dr. Mitsuya’s Insight on the Importance of Collaborating with Excellent People and Sharing Knowledge
Dr. Mitsuya’s Insight on the Importance of Embracing Challenges in Science
Q&A session
A Student Asking Dr. Mitsuya a Question
Dr. Mitsuya Engaging with Students After the Lecture
Dr. Mitsuya with International Students
Dr. Mitsuya Giving the Lecture
Dr. Mitsuya’s Insight on the Importance of Collaborating with Excellent People and Sharing Knowledge
Dr. Mitsuya’s Insight on the Importance of Embracing Challenges in Science
Q&A session
A Student Asking Dr. Mitsuya a Question
Dr. Mitsuya Engaging with Students After the Lecture
Dr. Mitsuya with International Students