Wanting to be involved in larger systems rather than components of communication systems

After completing my master’s degree in graduate school, I joined an optical fiber manufacturer in a research position. I researched multi-core optical fibers and other new technologies for about 11 years. However, since it was a manufacturer, the scope of my work was limited to the research and development of the optical fiber itself. As I repeated the cycle of designing, creating, evaluating, and announcing optical fibers at the laboratory, I developed a desire to be involved not only in the development of optical fiber but also in entire communication systems and solutions that use optical fiber, which led to my decision to change jobs.

I became interested in NEC through my conference activities. While participating in conferences related to optical fibers, I learned that NEC was involved in the kind of multi-core optical fiber research that I was engaged in as well as optical communications across a broad area from submarine cables to space, so I applied as a mid-career candidate.

After joining the company, I was surprised by the small team size. My current research group is roughly one-third the size of the team at my previous position. I was amazed that such a small number of people were able to consistently produce results. What I realized while working at NEC is that the business units are able to effectively elicit the needs of society that I might not have noticed and provide direction, which ensures that the research produces tangible results. The fact they are involved in many national projects is also a major factor. Of course, each individual researcher applies their high-level capabilities and expertise to efficiently produce research results.

However, the small number of people does not mean that we are overloaded. At my previous job, there were times when I had to work late into the night due to issues with the manufacturing process, but that hardly ever happens at NEC. I am able to work at a relaxed pace.