I seek to define the power driving the dynamics of the Earth’s engine with neutrino observations. “Geoneutrinos”, electrically neutral and nearly zero mass particles, are generated by radioactive decay of the Earth's heat producing elements, uranium, thorium, and potassium. These properties make geoneutrinos elusive and nearly impossible to detect; today, we can only detect one out of every ten billion, billion (a 1 with 19 zeros after it) geoneutrinos passing through our detector. However, even this meager detection rate (about one per month) allows us to understand the Earth. I am working on the KamLAND neutrino experiment, which is an international collaboration led by Tohoku University. Our detector, which is located about 1 km underground and stands about 20 m high, is in the Kamioka mine in Gifu Prefecture. We are trying to improve our capabilities in “neutrino geoscience”, a new, multidisciplinary field of science created when we first detected these particles. Currently, I am leading a new project called “Ocean Bottom Detector”, which aims to deploy a neutrino detector in the deep seafloor to map out the distribution of energy producing elements in the Earth’s interior.

My interest in physics first started when I was told in a high school class that "physics can calculate the future”. This inspirational teacher ignited a spark that drove my interest in science. As an undergraduate student I was vaguely interested in experimental physics because it gave me the opportunity to think about and do real hands-on science. It was exciting when I first learned about this neutrino experiment; I became completely fascinated when I learned that Japan is leading the world in this field. I am particularly attracted to this science because there are still many unresolved mysteries. This opportunity has inspired me to take on the challenge of solving some of the Earth’s most challenging problems. It is very rewarding for me to work across different scientific disciplines and methods (geology, physics, engineering). I enjoy meeting new people with shared scientific interests.

University research offers me the delight of figuring out how to solve big mysteries, develop new technologies, and to test new ideas. Every experiment is educational, even when something doesn't work out well. I enjoy the rewards of glimpsing at something no one else in the world yet knows. Doing science, one must be brave since there are many unknowns and new experiences that will change your mind and possibly direction of research. Enjoy the unknowns and excitements!