JSPS is conducting a program in the lead-up to the possible implementation of a new initiative called "Science Dialogue," which allows JSPS Fellows to participate in the education and research curricula of high schools in the vicinity of their host institutions.

On 1 February, Dr. Kyle Armstrong, a Fellow at Kyoto University, gave a lecture on "phylogeographic and genetic studies of micro-bats in and around Japan" to some 40 students at Ritsumeikan High School. His lecture was held on the campus of Ritsumeikan University at the Co-Learning House, which is a facility used to accommodate the Super Science High School Program at Ritsumeikan High School.

Students enjoying Dr. Armstrong's lecture

Using an abundance of photographs, Dr. Armstrong introduced the students to the natural environment of his home country, Australia, while describing the research activities of biologists and his own reasons for wanting to become a scientist. Then, he gave a lecture on bats, the subject of his research.

Dr. Kyle Armstrong

Explaining the ecology of bats, Dr. Armstrong went on to say that doing a survey of bat distribution required geographical knowledge as well. That is, he explained, pursuing this line of research meant he had to obtain knowledge outside his own area of expertise. From the perspective of preserving the bats' ecosystem, his research, though biological, is also closely related to the social issue of environmental protection. In this respect as well, Dr. Armstrong explained how he has had to expand the scope of his activities in course of carrying out his work.

Using a list of key words distributed by Dr. Armstrong in advance, the students prepared themselves to receive his lecture. Using both the English words and Japanese, the students asked volleys of questions, everything from "Are bats with big eyes able to see?" to "What is the meaning of protecting rare species?"