- Please tell us about your research theme.
‍I did my thesis research on "Research on Material Cycles in Forest Ecosystems: Effects of Inorganic Nitrogen Levels in Soil on Nitrate Concentrations in Stream Water".

Nitrogen is an essential element important for plant growth. However, nitrogen is not present in the soil, and its only source is organic nitrogen deposited from the atmosphere or accumulated on the soil surface as fallen leaves and branches. These are converted to inorganic nitrogen by microbial decomposition, which is then reabsorbed by plants, thus circulating nitrogen throughout the forest ecosystem. The nitrogen that is not absorbed by plants is leached out by soil infiltration and finally discharged into stream water. Therefore, the nitrogen cycle in the soil affects the amount of nitrogen that flows out. Therefore, we conducted a study in the Takase side watershed of Shichinohe Town, Aomori Prefecture, to clarify the effect of the amount of inorganic nitrogen in the soil on the nitrate ion concentration (nitrogen concentration) in stream water.

- What were your impressions of the thesis presentation?
In order to explain the connection between the nitrogen cycle in‍soil and the nitrate ion concentration in stream water in an easy-to-understand manner, I revised my slides and practiced my presentation many times. We also anticipated the questions we would be asked and prepared for them. Thanks to the practice and countermeasures, I was able to calmly present my presentation in my own words at the actual event.

- What did you enjoy the most or what made you happy in your research?
‍I enjoyed being able to do research in the rich nature of the Aomori field while feeling the seasons. starting from the snowy landscape in February to the fresh greenery in spring and the lush greenery in summer, the same site felt like a different place as the seasons changed. I have fond memories of eating mulberry nuts that were growing on the site and turning my hands bright red during the summer research.

- What was the most difficult or challenging part of your research?
‍The root removal of the soil samples that we collected. We had to remove roots down to the millimeter because any roots in the soil would affect the results of the experiment. Also, since a lot of breathing would also affect the results, we had a hard time working silently and endlessly without talking.

- What are your thoughts on your thesis research?
‍Through my thesis research, I learned once again the importance of cooperation. I could never have done it without the cooperation of the people around me, from the research to the analysis and the writing of my thesis. Also, I could not have finished my thesis without the guidance of my professor. I am filled with gratitude to my professor and the members of my group. Thank you very much.

- Thank you very much.