午夜剧场

"Did everyone who becomes a chemist excel at their studies since they were young?" I have been conducting research in the field of chemistry for many years, and to be honest, every chemist other than myself is truly brilliant. Therefore, I assume that all chemists must have been excellent students from a young age. "In that case, can you become a chemist as long as you are good at studying?" Regarding this, I feel that is not necessarily the case.

Even within the field of chemistry, there are areas where analytical skills at a desk provide a massive advantage. For example, in the fields of theoretical chemistry and physical chemistry, there is often competition to see who can reach (or understand) the solution to a common proposition in the field the fastest. In these areas, I personally feel that being good at studying—especially being strong in mathematics and physics—works very much in one's favor.

On the other hand, within the same field of chemistry, inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry are fields of "monozukuri" (creation), where the goal is to create new compounds and materials. Of course, common propositions exist within the field, but in many cases, each research group conducts research aiming for its own original and distinct outcome. In these fields, a simple idea or a sense of playfulness can lead to the creation of novel and useful compounds or materials. Furthermore, novel compounds and materials are often born from experimental failures. Of course, I believe a minimum level of basic academic ability is necessary. However, in these fields, I personally feel that having a rich imagination is a more important factor for success than analytical skills at a desk.

In fact, experiments in inorganic and organic chemistry are often said to resemble cooking. A good chef is not necessarily someone who is only good at desk-based analysis. Similarly, it seems that people who only excel at desk-based analysis do not necessarily become good inorganic or organic chemists. For Japan to continue to be active on the global stage, the creation of new technologies and products is essential. Inorganic and organic chemistry are fields deeply involved in that creation. I sincerely hope that young people with rich creativity and imagination will take on the challenge and support the Japan of the future.