I am currently conducting research on novel nucleic acid drugs. Nucleic acids act as drugs by preventing translation of genetic information into proteins based on the synthesis of a complementary strand of DNA or RNA in the body. Therefore, they can target genes that could not be targeted by conventional small-molecule drugs or antibody drugs. Nucleic acid drugs have the potential to cure diseases for which no effective treatment has been available or treat diseases with fewer side effects. I want to become a researcher who engages in discovering novel drugs and reducing side effects of drugs. I was prompted to become such a researcher because a loved one died from a drug side effect. I want to reduce the number of people who experience such sadness. During my undergraduate studies, I acquired skills and knowledge of biological experiments. Currently I am mainly learning skills and knowledge of chemical experiments. In the program, I would like to expand my skills and knowledge in areas other than chemistry and biology so I can use new approaches in drug discovery research that could not be done one with expertise in one specific area.