Satoshi Konno, MD, PhD
Hokkaido University, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine
1. Three statements about you – two true, one false.
I love English.
I love ATS.
I hate English.
2. Give us your ‘elevator pitch’ biography.
I am a pulmonologist at Hokkaido University Hospital, located on Japan's northernmost island. While I specialize in general respiratory medicine, my focus areas are asthma, COPD, and sarcoidosis. I make sure to attend the ATS International Conference every year.
3. What would you tell yourself as an Early Career Professional?
Passion is crucial. It's the fuel that drives you through challenges, keeps you motivated on tough days, and inspires innovation. Your career is a marathon, not a sprint, and genuine passion for what you do will ensure you have the stamina to go the distance and truly make an impact.
4. If you weren’t in medicine, and were in a different industry altogether, what would you be?
Hokkaido, where I live, has a serious doctor shortage compared to the Tokyo area. I want to formulate a strategy to solve this situation.
5. What is your favorite way to spend a day off?
I spend time with my wife and go driving, shopping, and often watching sports in a stadium.
6. What areas of medicine are you most excited to see develop?
I am interested in rare diseases that receive little attention from pharmaceutical companies.
7. What is one advancement in your field you’d like to see in your career?
I want to help create a health care system that inspires dreams in future generations, not just within my own field.
8. Which statement (in question #1) was false?
Number three was false.