The Stellar Science Foundation (hereinafter referred to as “SS-F”) has recently launched the “SS-F New-Generation Program,” a new initiative aimed at fostering young researchers who will lead the next generation. Dr. Haruka Sasaki, an Assistant Professor [1] at the Graduate School of Dentistry, Tohoku University, has been selected as the first researcher for this program.
About the SS-F New-Generation Program
SS-F has a vision of realizing People-Centric Science, a research ecosystem centered around people. This vision is based on the belief that in order to advance the world through the power of science, scientists need to connect with a diverse range of individuals beyond their own fields. However, the current situation presents a challenge, as researchers often have limited opportunities for meaningful dialogue across organizations and disciplines.
To address this issue, the SS-F New-Generation Program provides the following support to young researchers, promoting discoveries and inventions that arise from interdisciplinary exchanges, thereby accelerating their research.
Key support provided:
● Mentoring from top scientists (Stellar Inventors[2]) who are part of the SS-F community.
● Support from SS-F science experts in presenting at academic conferences, applying for research grants, and writing papers.
● Hands-on training from SS-F business experts to facilitate societal implementation of research outcomes.
● Invitations to SS-F community events.
Reason for Selecting Dr. Haruka Sasaki
Dr. Haruka Sasaki, an Assistant Professor at the Graduate School of Dentistry, Tohoku University, was highly recognized for her research theme, “Elucidation of the Role of Melatonin Receptors in the Pathophysiology of Bronchial Asthma,” which she pursued during her doctoral studies in dental anesthesiology. Her work is expected to contribute to the development of new therapeutic drugs for asthma.
In addition to her outstanding research acumen and hypothesis-setting skills, Sasaki possesses excellent communication abilities, curiosity, and enthusiasm. These qualities align with SS-F’s vision of People-Centric Science, making her a promising researcher and a fitting selection for the SS-F New-Generation Program.
Comment from Dr. Haruka Sasaki
“I am deeply honored to have been selected for the SS-F New-Generation Program. Bronchial asthma is a representative chronic inflammatory disease affecting approximately 260 million people worldwide, with about 460,000 deaths annually. My ultimate research goal is to eradicate deaths from asthma, and I am conducting research on the pathophysiology and drug discovery for bronchial asthma. Through this program, I aim not only to advance my research but also to grow as a researcher, and I will continue to strive to achieve these goals.”
Comment from Dr. Takanori Takebe, Founder/ Representative Director of SS-F
“Dr. Haruka Sasaki is a researcher whose work embodies our vision of People-Centric Science, and we are thrilled to support her research activities through the SS-F New-Generation Program. We hope that by combining her personal research capabilities with the opportunities to meet various innovators from around the world, she will make groundbreaking discoveries and inventions beyond imagination.”
About Stellar Science Foundation (SS-F)
SS-F is a Japan-based organization focused on harnessing the power of people in science to build a system that continuously fosters disruptive discoveries and inventions. Our goal is to contribute to society by supporting scientists’ free research activities, which lead to world-changing discoveries and inventions, thereby revitalizing Japan’s scientific research.
SS-F aims to enable curiosity-driven research by outstanding researchers through the three core concepts of “The Stellar Model”: Stellar Inventors—discovering exceptional next-generation researchers, Investment—supporting the construction of research environments that allow for free challenges, and Inclusive Community—fostering a community rich in diversity.
About Tohoku University
Since its founding, Tohoku University has maintained a tradition of “research first,” an open-door policy, and a spirit of “practical learning.” The university cultivates individuals with rich knowledge and humanity, who possess a “scientific mind” for intellectual inquiry into human, social, and natural phenomena, and who demonstrate expertise in various fields from an international perspective, playing leading roles in these fields. In addition to pursuing fundamental research for deep academic understanding, Tohoku University promotes diverse research aimed at addressing societal needs, striving to achieve world-class standards.
Note
[1] At the time of selection for the SS-F New-Generation Program, she was in the fourth year of her doctoral course. [2] Stellar Inventor is a title given by SS-F to researchers selected based on its unique criteria, signifying ambitious individuals with unparalleled, unique perspectives and creativity.