Researcher Introduction
Elements Strategy Initiative for Catalysts and Batteries, Kyoto University Project-Specific Assistant Professor Katsutoshi Sato

Motivation for Becoming a Researcher

I have enjoyed investigating and summarizing things since I was a child. During my school days, I found the study of catalysts interesting and thought it was fun to solve the mysteries we encountered in our research. This led me on a path to my current job.

Your Greatest Strengths

I am also interested in machinery and electronic work, and I am good at building and starting-up the reactors for catalytic reaction. The basis of catalyst research is to “prepare and try” catalysts. Therefore, the catalysts and reactors always go hand-in-hand. Everyday I am constantly contending with metal piping and electric wiring, despite the fact that I am a chemist.

What Makes Your Research Interesting or Worthwhile

I think one of the most interesting aspects of research is that there is more than one approach to achieving the same purpose. I value good steadfast methods of proceeding step by step, but at the same time I understand that solutions can come from unexpected places.

Other Research That Interests You

I am interested in operand measurements and I would like to try to analyze the dynamic behavior of catalysts using combined techniques, such as XRD + XAFS + IR. I believe that operand analysis can be a very powerful tool for considering the true appearance of a catalyst.

Interests Other Than Research You Would Like to Pursue

Having bought a new oven, I would like to return to my hobby of making confections. To me, the process of making sweets is similar to a chemistry experiment because the precision required in weighing, stirring, and heating greatly affects the quality of the product.