In 2010 the laboratories of the Hokkaido University Department of Dermatology published numerous original and unforgettable research papers. (See “My Special Paper”) All were completed after many years of research in the laboratories and many series of edits by me. Each is equally memorable and excellent. Dr. Yasuyuki Fujita’s paper won the Japanese Dermatological Association Award (Minami Award) for 2010.

I first met Dr. Yasuyuki Fujita in my class when I gave my first dermatology lecture at HokkaidoUniversity. He was in his fourth year at the Medical School. I happened to be looking for a student to assist me in writing the Dermatology Textbook for Medical Students at Hokkaido University. Dr. Fujita, who was then Mr. Fujita, was seated in the front row, and he drew my attention. I invited him into my project. I suppose he took interest in dermatology during the course of assisting me. He joined the department later. He studied hard after joining the department and continued his research under the guidance of Dr. Riichiro Abe. His endeavors have resulted in the above mentioned award. I am delighted, because the papers from our department were highly regarded at home and abroad again this year.

2nd and 3rd Dermatology Laboratories (on the 3rd floor of the South Research Building)

The department had some personnel changes. Dr. Masashi Akiyama moved on to become Professor at NagoyaUniversity. Dr. Toshifumi Nomura, back from overseas research, was promoted to Instructor and became Chief of the 1st Lab, succeeding Dr. Akiyama. Dr. Wataru Nishie, who is back from overseas study, was promoted to Assistant Professor. He started to serve as Chief of the 2nd and 3rd Labs, succeeding Dr. Akihiko Shibaki, who left the department. Dr. Riichiro Abe, who was promoted to Associate Professor, continues to lead the 4th Lab as Chief.

1st and 4th Dermatology Laboratories (on the 7th floor of the Medical and Dental Building)

During the past year, four of the department members have become Instructors. They will be the core for research in the labs. Three dermatologists have joined the Ph.D course of department. With these fresh members I will further endeavor in my research with a refreshed mind.

The Department of Dermatology will continue to advance so that efforts by the members will result in achievements worthy ofanother Japanese Dermatological Association Award.

Download '2010 Overview of Departmental Research Laboratories' in the annual report 2011,
(, 767KB)