The purpose and motive of this visit is to broaden and strength the research collaboration between Curtin University (Australia) and the University of Hyogo (Japan) in the area of microalgae cultivation and application. Prof. Kashino lab, is one of the best equipped lab with many highly sophisticated equipment that make the work with microalgae enjoyable and productive. I also have strong desire to deepen and strengthen my experience with Japanese culture, tradition, and the educational system.

I spent a wonderful 4 weeks at the Harima science campus/ University of Hyogo (14 Dec 2023- 12 Jan 2024). This visit offered me a unique opportunity to experience the Japanese culture at different levels – from the elementary school through the research laboratory at the university, which is greatly impressed me. I had a chance to be in direct contact with not only the university students but also with primary and junior high school students.
Apart from the scientific aspect of this opportunity, I was impressed in the Japanese culture, food, tradition, and the educational system.
I had a great time in the lab, where I enjoyed the research atmosphere. I must say that I had a great sensei and very cooperative and friendly lab mates who always cared for me and my requirements in the Lab.
I spent most of my time in the lab and work as much as I can. I have had a chance to learn advanced techniques and instrumentation for preparation and analysis of samples, also visiting local wastewater treatment plant in Harima to collect samples necessary for the research work.
I really learnt a lot during my short stay at Kashino sensei’s laboratory.

During this short visit (14 Dec 2023- 12 Jan 2024) several experiments were conducted as planned. Where we successfully cultivated two different microalgae species using real wastewater to produce potential microalgae biomass as an effective biosorbent for RREs (Samarium in this study) removal from aqueous solution (see the experimental report). In addition, several lectures/talks have been presented to the students/researchers of the University of Hyogo in the College of Science (Harima Science Campus), elementary and junior high school students.

1. Lecture to the science students at Harima Science Campus/ University of Hyogo on 20 Dec 2023 (Topic: Impacts of Global Atmospheric Pollution on Ecosystems).

2. Presentation to Prof. Kashino’s research group, Harima Science campus/ University of Hyogo on 11 Jan 2024 (Topic: Harnessing Microalgae: A Sustainable Approach to Resource Recovery and Environmental Remediation).

3. Presentation for the students at junior high school- Harima on 11 Jan 2024 (Topic: Impacts of Global Atmospheric Pollution on Ecosystems)

4. Presentation for the students at Harima Kogen Higashi elementary school on 11 Jan 2024 (Topic: Historical and cultural overview for Mesopotamia and Australia)

This short visit was absolutely a great opportunity for me to strengthen the long term and productive research collaboration between Curtin University (Australian) and University of Hyogo (Japan). The near future goals will include (i) Exchange researchers (master and PhD students) between the two research groups to pursue the efforts toward globally commercializing a new cost effective, green and sustainable technology for resources recovery. (ii) Planning for a joint research proposal for possible founding from Australian Research Council (ARC), Industry, JSTA, and JSPS. (iii) Joint publications
I will definitely encourage and recommended the Australian students to think about traveling and start their scientific career early in Japan to gain valuable experience.

Finally, I highly appreciated Hyogo Government to make all these happening by supporting my stay through HORN program.