From this fiscal year, JSPS has instituted the "Science Dialogue Program," which provides a framework for JSPS fellows to participate in the educational programs of high schools within the vicinity of their host institutions. Through this program, JSPS seeks to kindle a thirst for learning among the high school students, while giving the participating fellows an opportunity to deepen their ties with Japan through their contact with the students.

On 24 June, Dr. Ruth Goodridge, a JSPS fellow at the Nara Institute of Science and Technology, gave a lecture under the program to around 30 students at Nara High School. Her research topic at the Institute being "Development of Bioactive Glass-Ceramics for Use with Selective Laser Sintering," Dr. Goodridge's lecture to the high school students was entitled "Life and Research of a Biomaterial Scientist."

Giving lecture to students

Using an abundance of pictures and other visual aids, she explained why she wanted to be a researcher; and drawing upon her research experiences in Japan and other countries, described her work as a scientist to date. She also used samples to illustrate points in her lecture on biomaterials.

Dr. Ruth Goodridge

Dr. Goodridge explained how biomaterial have various applications including use in contact lenses and artificial bones, and how there is a demand for developing biomaterials, which being neither toxic or allergenic, are matched to the needs of patients. She said it is her own personal dream to develop biomaterials that synchronize with the human body and can adapt to its growth. She also shared her views on the place of female scientists within the research community. Finally, she emphasized to the students that the best way for them to be highly motivated in their studies is to truly enjoy the pursuit of science.

Dr. Goodridge's lecture was followed by a Q&A session, in which the students asked volleys of questions, many in English, ranging from surgery to implanting artificial bones and the properties of ceramic materials to whether other members of Dr. Goodridge's family are scientists and what she enjoys most about her work. To each of these questions, Dr. Goodridge offered carefully worded, thoughtful replies.