Young Professionals to Watch: Sepideh D. Firouzjah

The PhD candidate shares how the ACCJ has helped her pursue innovations in science.

The Young Professionals Forum (YPF) serves as a platform to connect working professionals aged 35 and under within the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ). In this installment of our Young Professionals to Watch series, we talk to Sepideh D. Firouzjah, a PhD candidate at the Institute of Science Tokyo, about the real-life lessons she has learned by participating in YPF events, which go beyond traditional networking to give young professionals opportunities to learn directly from senior ACCJ members in intimate settings.

What do you study at the Institute of Science Tokyo?

I completed my undergraduate studies in sports physiology and sports nutrition, followed by a master’s degree in medicine in sport and exercise at Tohoku University, supported by a full scholarship from 2022. During this time, I also joined Tokyo Medical and Dental University as a research student, which later became the Institute of Science Tokyo. I advanced to a PhD program in the Department of Biosignals and Inheritance, affiliated with the School of Dentistry, in 2024.

My master’s research focused on oligodendrocytes, the brain cells responsible for supporting nerve communication. Building on this foundation, I have expanded my work to examine how parental experiences can influence offspring through changes in gene regulation. My current research specifically investigates how exercise triggers chemical modifications in cells—known as lactylation—that occur across different cell types. These modifications appear to play a role in enhancing learning abilities and improving the way the body regulates energy and metabolism.

What is the most memorable project you have worked on? How did being a young professional make a difference?

One of the most memorable projects I worked on was my research exploring how exercise impacts brain and metabolic function through epigenetic changes. It was exciting because it gave me the chance to connect my background in sports science with cutting-edge research in neuroscience, and it showed me how deeply lifestyle factors can influence health across generations. This project also gave me a sense of purpose, as I could see how my work might contribute to future approaches in preventive medicine.

As a young professional, this experience helped me grow by pushing me outside my comfort zone. I had to adapt to new techniques, learn how to communicate across disciplines, and manage challenges with limited experience. These moments, instead of holding me back, gave me confidence and resilience, and shaped the way I approach research and collaboration today. Most importantly, it taught me that growth often comes from embracing challenges and being open to continuous learning.

How does your university empower its young professionals?

The best part about studying at the Institute of Science Tokyo is the strong interdisciplinary environment. I appreciate how the university brings together researchers from different backgrounds. This creates opportunities for me to learn beyond my own field and inspires innovative approaches to complex problems. In addition, the institute provides excellent facilities and organizes high-level conferences, often inviting Nobel Prize laureates and pioneering scientists, which allows candidates to directly learn from leaders in the field. The collaborative atmosphere, combined with access to such opportunities, makes it an ideal place to grow both as a researcher and as a professional.

The university also empowers young professionals by offering mentorship, cutting-edge laboratories, and international networking. Beyond research, it provides courses connected to industry, including business and international health, which helps candidates expand their perspectives and skill sets. As a PhD candidate, I feel encouraged to explore my ideas while also receiving guidance that strengthens my research. This balance of independence, resources, and support helps early-career researchers develop the skills and confidence needed to contribute meaningfully to science and society.

Do you have a memorable moment from a YPF or ACCJ event?

I have had many valuable experiences through YPF and ACCJ events, particularly in building networks and engaging in meaningful conversations with international professionals in Japan. These opportunities have allowed me to learn from diverse career journeys, exchange perspectives across industries, and develop a stronger understanding of how professionals navigate challenges and growth in a global environment.

One event that left a strong impression on me was Female Diplomats Driving Women’s Empowerment in Global Politics and Business. Listening to female diplomats from three countries share the challenges they have faced in their careers and personal lives was both inspiring and thought-provoking. Their stories not only highlighted the common struggles women encounter but also reflected how cultural and national contexts shape those experiences. For me, this was particularly meaningful because it underscored the importance of women’s leadership and empowerment, which resonates deeply with the role of women in advancing both business and science.

What are your expectations for the YPF and the ACCJ?

First, I sincerely appreciate the opportunities that the YPF and wider ACCJ community provide to young professionals. The platform fosters meaningful connections across diverse industries and cultures, allowing emerging professionals to exchange ideas, broaden their perspectives, and build networks that support both personal and professional growth.

I hope the YPF and the ACCJ can further strengthen support for startups by organizing targeted events and workshops focused on entrepreneurship, scaling businesses, and navigating both the Japanese and US markets. Connecting young professionals with CEOs and industry leaders, providing mentorship, networking, and access to resources—as well as promoting cross-industry collaboration and international exchanges—can empower startups and emerging professionals to innovate and make a meaningful impact in both local and global business landscapes.