The 146th Annual Meeting of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan (Osaka)

Organizer: Kaoru Ikekawa (Grad. Sch. Pharm., Tokyo Univ. Pharm. Life Sci.), Yuki Yamauchi (Grad. Sch. Pharm., Tokyo Univ. Pharm. Life Sci.), Sayaka Matsumura (Grad. Sch. Pharm., Tokyo Univ. Pharm. Life Sci.)

The field of pharmaceutical sciences is rapidly advancing, with specialization diversifying —from drug discovery and clinical pharmacy to data science and social implementation. In this context, fostering the next generation of researchers is essential for addressing complex challenges in healthcare and pharmaceutical research. Therefore, we PhD students are now required not only to acquire advanced research abilities but to develop transferable skills applicable across fields. However, clear guidance on precisely "Which abilities should be developed and how to develop them?" remains limited. To address these issues, this symposium invites four speakers—one from a research administration agency and three current PhD students—to share institutional initiatives and student perspectives on doctoral training. On this basis, we will explore desirable attributes of excellent doctoral professional. As a joint program with the Japanese Pharmaceutical Science Federation (JPSF), the symposium will provide multifaceted perspectives on the qualities and support needed for PhD professionals. The panel discussion will further encourage active input from both speakers and participants, offering a valuable opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue on cultivating excellent pharmaceutical PhD professional and considering future directions together.