a STRONG connection with Tohoku! 

“I have had a strong connection with the Tohoku region since taking part
in a volunteer project half a year after the Great East Japan Earthquake.” 

Ryan Browne
Research Student
Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer


I have had a strong connection with the Tohoku region since taking part in a volunteer project half a year after the Great East Japan Earthquake. My first experience of Japan was of Sendai and Miyagi, and during that time, I was deeply moved not only by the resilience and courage of the people here, but the kindness they showed towards us volunteers. So, after completing my undergraduate studies in London, it seemed like a natural path to continue my studies at Tohoku University.

Despite changing my specialty from Chemistry to Medical Science, I have had no problems settling in and making progress with my research thanks to the tremendous support from all the teachers and staff. I feel extremely privileged to study at such an elite institute as IDAC, under professors producing world-class research. Everyone in my lab has been very warm and welcoming, and there is certainly a sense of being part of a larger community.

Outside of the meetings and conferences, there are numerous social events to meet other researchers, and beyond the lab, there are boundless opportunities available to experience the “Sendai” way of life. I have taken part in traditional festivals, gone hiking and bathed in remote hot springs, and experienced the magic of viewing the autumn foliage colours at Matsushima. I hope that many more people can come and experience the treasures of the Tohoku region, and conduct their research at IDAC.