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A nature lover from Japan who wants to help solve the world’s looming water shortage is The University of Western Australia’s recipient of the 2017 Forrest Research Foundation Scholarships.

Ryuta Ujihara, 27, a graduate from Kyoto University, will join Frederik Seersholm, and Kit Prendergast from Curtin University in accepting the prestigious scholarships announced today by Andrew and Nicola Forrest.

His PhD will address some of the world’s biggest environmental issues, including a future worldwide water shortage caused by human pressures such as an increasing population, rapid urbanisation and climate change.

The scholarships are available to outstanding international and Australian students who wish to undertake a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at one of Western Australia’s five universities.

Mr Ujihara said he was thrilled with the news which will allow him to study the desalination of seawater and wastewater at the university using special water purification technology.

“The scholarship provides me a secure environment to focus on my research as well as opportunities for professional development. It allows me to work with great researchers with the chance to make wider connections to the community,” he said.

He is keen to commercialise the findings of his research.

“During my PhD program, I want to discover how to connect scientific findings to actual applications. I hope to obtain some patents in my research for commercialisation in Western Australia,” he said.

Despite graduating from Kyoto Univerity in Japan, Mr Ujihara said he prefers to live in cities closer to nature and is hoping to spend his free time discovering Western Australia’s natural beauty.

“Although pursuing a PhD is going to be very hard, I want to find time for activities like hiking or water sports to enjoy the nature of WA.”

The winners represent some of the world’s best young minds and Mr Ujihara’s passion and commitment to solving issues at a global level makes him an ideal candidate for a 2017 Forrest Scholarship.

Media references

David Stacey (UWA Media Manager)                                       (+61 8) 6488 3229 / (+61 4) 32 637 716