This article was published in the Autumn 2024 issue of Litterae Populi. The full issue can be found here.

Dr. Vladana Vukojevic
Associate Professor of Biochemistry, Karolinska Institute

When asked to become a Hokkaido University Partner, I felt deeply honored, and a surge of pride and enthusiasm burst forth. My immediate thoughts centered on the importance of this role in promoting the University’s values. Hokkaido University promotes interdisciplinary research, is committed to sustainability, significantly emphasizes international collaboration, and is proactive in incorporating innovative teaching methods and technologies. In Sweden, Hokkaido University has a very good reputation and is interacting with the universities, Karolinska Institute, the JSPS and the MIRAI – Swedish-Japanese Strategic University Collaboration. Through continued collaboration between Hokkaido University and Karolinska Institute, I aim to enhance the quality and scope of collaborative biomedical research at both institutions.

In my interdisciplinary work, I use advanced analytical methods and integrative mathematical modelling approaches to further our understanding of how molecules are integrated in biochemical pathways through which vital biological functions occur at the cellular level. My collaboration with Emeritus Professor Masataka Kinjo, Hokkaido University (Professor at the Faculty of Advanced Life Science until March 2022) started in 2007 and continued through Hokkaido Summer Institute (HSI) since its inception in 2016. As an Invited Lecturer, I teach at three HSI courses. Every year, I derive great satisfaction from meeting new students who take HSI courses. Seeing them engaged in analyzing data they have acquired themselves, following theoretical and practical training, is a joyful memory that brings a smile to my face.

For me, interactions with students have been especially rewarding. Students bring fresh perspectives, curiosity, and energy to the academic environment. It motivates me to continuously refine my teaching and find ways to make learning more effective and enjoyable. Knowing that my efforts are helping students to grow and succeed brings joy and a greater sense of accomplishment. A shining example of this is Dr. Sho Oasa, who graduated from Hokkaido University and is now an Assistant Professor at Karolinska Institute. Through our training, he has acquired knowledge and deep understanding of molecular mechanisms and methods for their characterization in live cells. He is making significant contributions to the academic community and is giving back to new generations of students by engaging in HSI courses. This legacy of mentorship and excellence in research is something of which I am immensely proud and it highlights the enduring value of my partnership with Hokkaido University.

Stockholm, where I live, is spread across 14 islands and crisscrossed by waterways, earning it the nickname “Venice of the North.” Sapporo features a mix of modern and traditional Japanese architecture, while Stockholm is known for its historical buildings, like the Royal Palace and the Vasa Museum, and medieval old town, Gamla Stan.

Sapporo serves as a rich source of seafood year-round. The similarities between the two cities are that both have cold and often snowy winters, are home to renowned universities and research institutions, and emphasize education and innovation to achieve a high standard of living.

I am continuously inspired by the shared commitment to education, research, innovation, excellence and global collaboration.
We are not just advancing knowledge but also building bridges that transcend borders and cultures. To the entire Hokkaido University community, I encourage you to embrace every opportunity to continue pushing boundaries and keep fostering the spirit of curiosity and cooperation. Let us shape together a brighter, more connected future.

*The HUAP system ran from 2016 to 2024. The program has been revised to Hokkaido University Global PR Ambassador (HUPRA).

This article was published in the Autumn 2024 issue of Litterae Populi. The full issue can be found here.