Knut Woltjen（2023）

　During leisure time, Dr. Woltjen actively participates in “mikoshi” (神輿), part of traditional Japanese festival activities known as “matsuri” (祭), to show respect to gods. He also enjoys climbing during the weekends. These activities help him maintain focus, concentrating solely on one thing and preventing distractions. New ideas occasionally come to his mind in these situations. Reading is also a critical part of his free time. Participating in non-academic events, mikoshi and matsuri activities serves as his way of striking the best work-life balance.

　Dr. Woltjen offered two critical pieces of advice for future researchers. Firstly, a researcher should be able to follow their heart, doing everything they are eager to do without being restricted by norms, the mainstream, or otherʼs expectations. Secondly, researchers are urged to read extensively. Reading literature across a wide range of fields, along with actively communicating with peers and the public, helps researchers broadening their horizons. Specifically, science develops rapidly, so reading scientific literature updates oneʼs state of-the-art knowledge. Meanwhile ,one should not forget past literature in the fields of science or humanities, which can provide insights into the future of human beings by carefully examining their prior activities. (Shin-Ru Cheng)