私は修士課程で分子動力学計算による金属やセラミックスの強度の研究をしていました．博士課程から実験もやってみたいと考え，NIMSジュニア研究員の制度を利用して，両方の専門家がいるこのグループに進学を決めました．NIMSは最先端の装置を備えているので，研究を本気で取り組める実験環境が整っています．特に，本グループでは，微小力学特性に関する研究をメインにしており，マクロの実験では見えない力学特性や転位の動きを直接的に感じることができるので，とても面白いです．また，半年に１度開催される学生セミナーでは，同じ博士課程の学生が自分に近いテーマの研究を発表されますから，研究に対する意識を高める良い刺激になります．

As a person who is passionate about materials science and also loving Japanese culture, NIMS offers just the right environment for me to thrive. I was first attracted by the research internship of NIMS, which then opened the door for pursuing my PhD here. From the very beginning I felt warmly welcomed and received amazing support, not only to start my research and seamlessly integrate into the team, but also to smoothly start my new life on the other side of the globe. Being the largest materials research center in Japan, NIMS houses a tremendous number of state-of-the-art machines and instruments. The accessibility to this equipment paired with a great freedom in my research makes my experimental work highly enjoyable. Moreover, the opportunities for engaging in conferences, and international networking in general, are numerous.

（Read more in NIMS Now）

I am an international student enrolled in the Kyushu University - NIMS joint doctoral program and perform my research in the Mechanical Properties Group (former High Strength Materials Group). Alongside the state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies, NIMS offers a stimulating environment for Japanese and international researchers. The multiple research topics covered by our group are providing me with new skills and approaches towards scientific work. The continuous support and fruitful scientific discussion with my supervisor motivate and challenge me in a positive and constructive way. Furthermore, as international student, I have received extensive support by our group administrative staff to start my life in Tsukuba. The city attracts many researchers, it is possible to make new friends and easily explore Japan: Tokyo is a 45 minutes train ride away.