MEXT Scholarship Student Nikita’s Self-Introduction

Hello, my name is Nikita Buchinskiy. I graduated in 2021 from Ghent University with the degree Master of Science in Electromechanical Engineering. After completing an ongoing intensive Japanese language course at Tohoku University, I will soon enrol at the same university as a PhD candidate, while being a recipient of the MEXT scholarship for Researchers. I plan to conduct research on how a large share of renewable energy can be integrated in the electrical power grid without jeopardizing the stability of the grid.

From an early age, I have been intrigued by electricity and its various applications. Over the years, this interest has further enhanced as I have garnered a deeper understanding of its properties. Now, it is an exciting time for me as an electromechanical engineer since we are currently witnessing a paradigm shift in the electrical power industry from traditional energy sources, such as coal and oil, to sustainable alternatives in the form of wind, solar, etc. The concurrent rise of electric vehicles and heat pumps further emphasizes the critical role that electricity will play in our future society. Evidently, this transition poses numerous challenges that need to be carefully addressed. The goal of my doctoral research is to find potential solutions to these issues.

I am very honoured that I will join the research lab of Prof. Saitoh at Tohoku University as a PhD candidate. The lab is known for their impressive track record in developing advanced control algorithms capable of balancing large-scale power systems in addition to their expertise in mathematical modelling for simulation purposes. I fully sup  port their vision for the future and I hope I can share my passion for the energy transition. During my doctoral research, I will investigate methods for maintaining a reliable and safe operation of electrical power systems in the event of power imbalances or other disturbances. A strong focus will be dedicated to improving the stability of electrical power systems by means of renewable energy sources in combination with electric vehicles. I am looking forward to my time at Tohoku University and I hope my research can contribute to overcoming the technological hurdles, and thus, accelerate the growth of renewable energy.

Especially in my research field, many Japanese companies have established themselves as industry pioneers that have continuously advanced the state-of-the-art. Japan has always been known to be at the forefront of technological innovation and conducting scientific research in Japan would be highly valuable to any aspiring engineer. Thanks to the MEXT scholarship for Researchers, this dream can now become a reality and I cannot wait to start this next chapter in my life. I am convinced that Tohoku University is the ideal environment to pursue my doctoral degree and hone my skills as a researcher.

Even though my research will be mostly applied to the Japanese energy landscape, the developed methods and concepts will be highly relevant to the electrical power systems in Belgium as well. Indeed, Japan and Belgium share a very similar energy policy as both countries are trying to phase out nuclear energy and fossil fuels in favour of a larger share of renewable energy. Hence, both countries face essentially the same technological issues. My research can extend the general body of knowledge and in this context, the proposed solutions can help Japan and Belgium – and by extension society in general - to work towards a more sustainable future.

It is equally important to mention that the first-hand exposure to Japan’s culture and lifestyle by residing there, will undeniably provide me with new perspectives and a fundamental appreciation of its values. Due to my background in karate, I always had a profound admiration for the culture, language and people of Japan and now is the ideal opportunity to engage with it on every level. With this in mind, I hope to join a student club in order to fully immerse myself as a student at Tohoku University. At the same time however, I will try to act as an ambassador of Belgium by sharing my knowledge from growing up and living here in the hope that everyone benefits from an enriching and fulfilling experience
Therefore, I want to express my sincerest gratitude to MEXT for providing me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I am extremely excited to embark on this new journey that will allow me to both pursue my academic ambitions and discover what the Japanese life has to offer.


Apply here for the MEXT Scholarship: https://www.be.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/study_study.html