As part of the promotional efforts for the Science Stars Journal, launched in August 2025, we operate the "Science Stars Japan" YouTube channel. Another approach that contributes to the journal's growth is publishing interview articles with individuals active in fields aligned with the journal's founding principles. This issue features interviews with Dr. Takeshi Yôro, renowned for his notable book, Baka no Kabe (The Wall of Closed-Mindedness); Dr. Sumio Hayakawa, experienced in Children's Academia, a local government-university collaboration project; and Ms. Noriko Tateishi, a high school biology club teacher and her club members. Also included is an editorial offering the perspective of Dr. Hirokazu Kobayashi, the deputy editor-in-chief. As a reference for future submissions, we have included the comparative results obtained using an inexpensive UV mirror camera and a modified UV camera.

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My early experiences raising and observing Old World swallowtail caterpillars captivated me with the wonders of nature, eventually leading me to devote myself to the molecular biology of living organisms. That is, the motivation for research stems generally from a spirit of inquiry that has historically been nurtured by stable, prosperous societies. Since 2004, Japan has increasingly reorganized its national and public universities and research institutions into independent administrative agencies. In tandem with this trend, Japan’s research capabilities have fallen to 13th place globally. Furthermore, research misconduct has increased. In short, competition and an obsession with efficiency do not foster research. I propose government-led reforms.

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Renowned for his bestselling book, Baka no Kabe (The Wall of Closed-Mindedness), and his many other publications, Dr. Yôro continues to share his insights on navigating the challenges of modern life through his books and YouTube channel. Even after celebrating his 88th birthday, Dr. Yôro remains devoted to preparing insect specimens and conducting entomological research. Here, he was interviewed at his mountain retreat in Hakone, Kanagawa, Japan.

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"Science is fascinating." A small sense of wonder experienced in childhood can sometimes shape an entire life. Dr. Sumio Hayakawa is a senior assistant professor at Nippon Medical School, where he conducts research and teaches about the mechanisms that protect the human body. In addition to his academic work, Dr. Hayakawa participates in Kodomo Academia, a science outreach program organized by Bunkyo City in Tokyo. There, he introduces children to the excitement of science. Thanks to the kind arrangement of our mentor, Dr. Mamoru Isemura, we had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Hayakawa at Dr. Isemura's residence in Kyodo, Setagaya, Tokyo. He shared his thoughts as a researcher and educator who has loved science since childhood.

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For this interview report, I visited the biology club at Shizuoka Prefectural Iwata Minami High School and spoke with Ms. Noriko Tateishi, the club’s advisor, and three third-year members about their scientific research. The club has won numerous awards in student science competitions, including the "Student Science Award," the "Japan Science and Engineering Challenge (JSEC)," and the "Yamazaki Prize." Those students have been published as authors of award-winning research papers.

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