Satoshi Watanabe

I was deeply honoured to receive the APSR Young Investigator Travel Award to the ATS International Conference 2023 in Washington D.C. It was my pleasure to participate in the ATS conference for the first time in three years. Unlike a virtual meeting, face-to-face conversation enabled a more fluid and dynamic exchange of ideas and collaboration. It was an amazing experience to share my work with everyone and to learn more about the research in various fields.

I presented our research work entitled “Monocyte-derived interstitial macrophages stimulate angiogenesis to promote lung regeneration following pneumonectomy” in the international scholar poster colloquium. This colloquium provided only 3 minutes to share our research findings with international scholars who have different interests. Although it was challenging, I tried to catch the audience’s attention, highlight the main points in our research, and have a summary to restate the importance of our work. It was an excellent opportunity to train my research communication skills. In addition, I had enough chances to meet the young physicians and we could learn from each other. Everything was fresh and exciting to me.

This was my first presentation at a mini symposium at the conference. During my presentation, I met some key scientists and experts in my field of interest and received many questions and comments that will help me improve my research work. I built a strong research network and stayed in touch with them after the conference. I was also impressed by the many presentations and posters from global experts. I learned a lot of novel findings and technologies from other researchers; they helped me to widen my visions and increase my knowledge. I indeed enjoyed the discussion with them. This conference enabled me to explore new places and new fields.

Again, I would like to show my gratitude to the APSR for their generous support and wholehearted hospitality. It was a wonderful and valuable experience for me. I look forward to participating at the ATS International Conference every year.

Satoshi Watanabe