Marie Saitou from CIGENE recently received the “Maria Sklodowska Curie Award”. The award was established by the Japan Science and Technology Agency and the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Japan, commending young female researchers who aim to be active on the global stage. The Award honors her great contribution and achievements to the development of science and technology across the world and will inspire more active participation by Japanese young female researchers.
Reason for winning
While studying genome informatics and genetic statistics, Dr. Saitou is also mentoring young researchers overseas. Her leadership is highly praised, and her attitude towards building networks with various people makes her a good rolemodel for other female researchers.
Marie’s response
Dr. Marie Saitou
I am honored to have received such a prestigious award, named after Poland’s great pioneering scientist, who happens to have the same name as me, Marie, which means truth in Japanese. I would like to thank all the people who supported me in my career.
I heard that I received this award for my international engagement and for my efforts to encourage the younger generation. However, I have had many new responsibilities and challenges. In academia, there is constant harsh competition and it is very easy to lose confidence. But this Marie Sklodowska Curie Award strongly encouraged me to continue what I believe, positively and patiently.
In Norwegian academia and society, where I work, there are many aspects that I respect, such as the excellent postgraduate education system and the encouragement of women. Still, these are not very well known to people in Japan yet. I would like to transmit what I learned in Norway to Japan. I would also like to encourage students from Japan who want to study abroad, especially in Europe