I applied to the MANABIYA program after reading several papers discussing the use of the AFIR method for reaction pathway discovery and thinking it would be incredibly useful to my research, particularly to explain an experimental result for which the mechanism was completely unclear. I was accepted into the group of Professor Maeda and supervised by Specially Appointed Assistant Professor Hayashi to learn the AFIR method and apply it to the reactions I was working on. Professor Mita welcomed me to the University and members of his group as well as the Maeda group were always available to ask for help if it was required and made me feel very welcome during my time in Sapporo.
During my two months spent at Hokkaido University I gained a great understanding of the use and value of the AFIR method through my hands on application to my own research problems. The results I have obtained have yielded insights into the reactions of interest that likely would not have been possible without the AFIR method. I look forward to continuing to use the AFIR method to finalise the reaction pathways upon my return to the UK with hopes to publish the results soon. I was particularly impressed with the number of options provided in within the GRRM package to tailor calculations to specific problems. Additionally, the option to attend a vast array of organised seminars and talks within Hokkaido university alongside various social events to discuss research was particularly beneficial.
This visit to Hokkaido also marked my first visit to Japan and I was particularly excited to experience as much of the culture as possible. The main highlight of my trip was all the delicious food I was able to try from ramen to soup curry and of course sushi. I spent many of my weekends exploring the sights that Sapporo has to offer, whilst still finding plenty time to fit in my favourite pastime, running. I spent countless hours running alongside the Toyohira River, through Makomanai Park, Nakajima Park as well as the University campus. I was also able to visit Tokyo for a few days during my stay which was an incredible experience.
I would highly recommend anyone interested to apply for the MANABIYA program as it was an incredibly valuable experience scientifically as well as an excellent reason to visit Sapporo. I would like to thank everyone that played a role in my time in Hokkaido being so enjoyable, from the office staff who helped to organise the stay to the group members and Professors who were always on hand to help.
