Why NanoJapan?
NanoJapan is a testament to the increasingly international and collaborative scientific effort, allowing scientists-in-training to contribute research in an international setting at an early point in their careers. In doing so, young researchers reconcile differences in opinion with those of different backgrounds in working towards a common goal, learn exactly how overseas collaboration between research groups works, and are more inclined to pursue international connections in their future careers. In addition to the invaluable technical and practical experience that any research program can offer undergraduates, NanoJapan prepares participants for the international stage.
I applied to NanoJapan for largely the same reason that excited and compelled most applicants to try their chances with the program—I would be able to learn about and contribute to a nanotech-related field (specifically quantum nanoelectronics) while exploring every nook and cranny of Japan, learning about and partaking in Japanese traditions, and learning the language (which, through anime, I have grown so used to hearing but not actually speaking!) Experiencing three months in a country with such a unique blend of technological prowess and age-old tradition while doing significant nanotechnology research is going to be an exciting privilege.
Through Professor Tarucha’s group in Tokyo University, I look forward to applying and extending what I have learned in quantum mechanics thus far to developing quantum-level mechanisms for information processing and computation. On the Japan side, I look most forward to a breathtaking hike up Mount Fuji, exploring every shop in Tokyo’s Akihabara district, and relaxing in an onsen. Also, I look forward to soon meeting my fellow NanoJapan interns, as we will be experiencing the entirety of Japan together!
