The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) has decided the winners of the 7th Brilliant Female Researchers Award (The Jun Ashida Award). The awards ceremony was held at at Miraikan on October 26 (Sun), 2025.
At the awards ceremony JST presented a trophy and certificate to each winner, and the Ashida Fund* offered one million yen as a supplementary prize to the main winner.
*The Ashida Fund was established in 1994 by the late fashion designer Jun Ashida for the purpose of nurturing the younger generation. The Japan International Science and Technology Exchange Center (JISTEC) operates and manages the Ashida Fund on behalf of Jun Ashida Co. Ltd.
Assistant Professor, Research Institute for Applied Mechanics; Center for Ocean Plastic Studies, Kyushu University
Environmental Dynamics Analysis、Atmospheric and Hydrospheric Science
Dr. Nakano has made significant international contributions through elucidating the actual state of marine microplastics and developing detection methods. She led extensive field surveys from Tokyo Bay to Southeast Asia, clarifying the influence of monsoons and river inflows on the dynamics of microplastics. Her research is highly recognized for both its academic contributions and societal impact through collaborative studies based in Southeast Asia and international standardization activities. The development of affordable technology for analyzing microplastics, even in developing countries, is a notable and socially contributive achievement.
In parallel with her research activities, she is dedicated to fostering the next generation and serves as an environmental monitoring committee member in Fukuoka City. Her accomplishments in research capability, social contribution, and international engagement are outstanding, and she is regarded as a researcher expected to make even greater contributions in the future.
President Hiroyuki Sakuragi
Osaka Metropolitan University has put set forth an ambitious vision of "Changing the Landscape" and established its unique "OMU Promotion System for Female Faculty." Under the leadership of the President and the Personnel Committee, this system enables female faculty members who meet the promotion criteria within each department to be promoted even when there are no vacant positions. Within just two years, 13 new female professors and 6 associate professors have been appointed. As part of its commitment to fostering the next generation of female researchers, the university launched “Team IRIS,” a student-led initiative of female graduate students in STEM fields, which engages in outreach activities through collaboration with local communities. This activity has been ongoing for over 15 years, receiving high acclaim nationwide and serving as a model case for nurturing future female researchers. Through IRIS, the university promotes cooperation with local communities and businesses, contributing to expanding opportunities for women’s participation and advancement in society.
These initiatives have become reference points for other universities in designing similar systems. The university's innovative efforts to support women's advancement in society and cultivate future researchers serve as an exemplary model for other institutions.
Junior Associate Professor (Career Track), Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Science Tokyo
Neurosurgery, Cerebrovascular Disorders, Moyamoya Disease, Neuroscience, Cognitive Function
Dr. Hara, as a clinical research physician specializing in neurosurgery, has been advancing pioneering research on Moyamoya disease - a rare cerebrovascular disorder designated as an intractable disease by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan. Remarkably, only 10 years after graduating from medical school, she was appointed as the head of clinical care and research at one of the nation’s leading facilities for treating Moyamoya disease. In the field of neurology, she leverages her daily clinical experience to simultaneously drive multiple research projects from diverse perspectives. Her publication record and citation impact attest to her scientific strength.
Alongside her research activities, she serves as a board member and committee member in academic societies, actively promote diversity, and engages in outreach initiatives for high school students and patient associations. Combining excellence as both a neurosurgeon and a researcher, she stands as a rare talent and a role model for women in medicine, with great expectations for her continued contributions.
