From 23 February to 1 March 2025, Nagasaki University hosted seven graduate students and one faculty member from the Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya (University of Malaya). This scientific exchange program, focused on 'Field-based Tropical Medicine Research for Young Scientists from Malaysia and Japan,' strengthened the academic partnership established through an MOU and Student Exchange Program Agreement signed in September 2024.

Expanding research focus on Vector-borne Diseases

University of Malaya has been leading research in mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. In addition to these important diseases, tick-borne diseases represent an emerging research frontier with growing global significance. As one participant noted, 'In Malaysia, tick collection is very limited, making it difficult to identify the species.'

This program provided valuable exposure to advanced tick research techniques developed by Assistant Professor Dr Tomonori Hoshi at the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Nagasaki University, who has been conducting extensive tick surveys across Nagasaki Prefecture since 2019. The knowledge and technical exchanges are particularly timely as tick-borne diseases are gaining research attention not only in developing countries but also in advanced nations across Europe.

Hands-on Learning with Advanced Technologies

The week-long program offered participants a comprehensive experience integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional field methods. The first day introduced participants to Nagasaki's historical significance in tropical medicine research through museum visits and orientation sessions.

Subsequent days featured practical training in creating field equipment using 3D printing technology, allowing researchers to design custom tools specific to their research needs. Participants conducted actual tick surveys in natural habitats, learning efficient sampling techniques that enhance collection results. Laboratory sessions focused on specimen identification using morphological characteristics and digital cataloguing methods.

'The tick sampling and morphological identification was most impressive. It reminded me how fun science is!' exclaimed one participant. Another was impressed by 'the incorporation of different multidisciplinary technologies into medical research and the refinements of tick collection methods.'

Participants also mastered digital data collection using Open Data Kit on smartphones and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping their findings—skills directly applicable to their research in Malaysia. The hands-on approach allowed participants to process their own collected specimens and visualise spatial data patterns.

Moreover, participants from Universiti Malaya presented their research findings and engaged in lively discussions with researchers from Nagasaki University, seeking opportunities for future collaborative projects.

Connecting Research to Innovation

The program culminated with visits to startup support facilities and university-launched ventures in Nagasaki, providing insights into practical applications of research findings. This aspect was particularly relevant as the Malaysian government aims to register 5,000 new startups by 2025.

After completing the whole program, 'The startup session provided a better perspective and thought for possible future collaborations,' reflected a participant. 'Sampling, QGIS, ODK, and startup content were most impressive,' noted another, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the program.

Building Future Collaborations

This exchange has laid groundwork for continued collaboration between both institutions. Many participants expressed interest in long-term research stays in Japan, recognising the value of Japan's advanced research infrastructure and different climate conditions for comparative tick studies.

The program addresses the global decline in field-based tropical medicine researchers by inspiring the next generation of scientists who can bridge laboratory techniques with practical field applications. Through continued exchanges via the Sakura Science Program, both universities aim to develop joint research projects focusing on tick-borne diseases, contributing to public health improvements in both countries.