Since April 2020, Nagasaki University School of Medicine has established the Nagasaki University Medical Research Fund Scholarship (commonly known as the NUMF Fund) to promote deeper researcher-level exchanges with Leiden University (Netherlands) and the University of Würzburg (Germany), both of which have academic exchange agreements with our institution. This program provides financial support for travel and living expenses for researchers dispatched from these universities for a three-month stay.

In fiscal year 2025, we welcomed Mr. Ronny Ghi Morawietz, a master’s student from the University of Würzburg. Below is Ronny’s report on his three-month research stay at Nagasaki University.

My three-month research stay at Nagasaki University’s Department of Integrative Neuroscience, hosted by Associate Professor Nakahata, was an incredibly rewarding experience, both scientifically and culturally. I joined the laboratory to contribute to an ongoing research project focusing on circadian rhythms and cell senescence. Through this work, I developed a deeper understanding of how molecular biological methods can be used to study cellular aging processes within the context of biological rhythms.

I gained practical experience in several new experimental approaches and techniques during my time in the laboratory. These included cell culture and extracellular vesicle isolation. I also observed and learned about other research projects conducted by colleagues, which broadened my view of current neuroscience and molecular biology fields.

In addition to laboratory work, I valued interacting daily with Japanese researchers and students. Their dedication and work ethic impressed me, allowing me to reflect on the similarities and differences between Japanese and German academic cultures. Working alongside them helped me build confidence in conducting advanced experiments and communicating scientific ideas in an international research environment.

My stay was not limited to academic development, as I had many opportunities to experience local culture and traditions. On campus, I participated in the Nagasaki University of Medicine Cultural Festival, which provided insight into student life and club activities and demonstrated the strong spirit of cooperation within the university community. Off campus, I attended the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival, which made a strong impression on me because of its historical background, traditional performances, and welcoming atmosphere.

I explored several destinations beyond the city itself, such as Iki Island, Okino Island, Takashima Island, Unzen, and Mount Myoken, in the Nagasaki region. The natural scenery was impressive, and the hospitality of the locals created unforgettable memories. These experiences helped me appreciate the social and natural environments surrounding academic life in Nagasaki.

Although Japan was unfamiliar at first, excellent preparation and support from Nagasaki University and the University of Würzburg ensured a smooth transition. I did not face any significant challenges regarding bureaucratic processes or cultural adaptation, and I felt well supported from the beginning.

My time there strengthened my scientific skills and shaped me personally. I learned about the rhythm, values, and lifestyle of Japanese society, and I made friendships that I will always treasure. This experience has encouraged me to pursue further international collaborations and consider research opportunities abroad in the future.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Nagasaki University and the Nagasaki University Medical Research Fund Scholarship for this opportunity. I am grateful for the trust, guidance, and hospitality I received throughout my stay. This experience has had a lasting impact on my academic and personal development, and I hope to return in the future.

Takashima Island

Iki Island

Kunchi Festival

Visit at Glover Garden

Visit Arita Porcelain Park

Unzen

Observation during cell culture

The welcome party with the members of the lab