Japanese Researcher Joins Tartu Applied Health Sciences University Research Project 

Project number: 4-9.2/26/2 

Project duration: 01.04.2026 – 31.03.2027 

Funder: Japanese Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and Estonian Research Council (ETAG) 

From April 1^st 2026, Tartu Applied Health Sciences University is implementing a cooperation project with Japanese researcher Hiroyasu Murata, PhD, who is involved in the university’s research and development activities and plays a central role in carrying out an applied study focusing on older adults. The study examines the effects of muscle power and strength training on the functional and cognitive abilities of adults aged 65–70.

H. Murata earned his PhD in Health Sciences from Kyorin University in Tokyo, Japan. He has worked as a physiotherapist since 2016 and is currently continuing his academic career as a postdoctoral fellow. As part of the project, he will work at Tartu Applied Health Sciences University for one year. 

In cooperation between Dr. Murata and Tartu Applied Health Sciences University, the scientific framework and methodology of the study will be developed, and both a pilot and an experimental study will be conducted. The results of the study will be published in a peer-reviewed scientific article. 

In addition to research activities, Dr. Murata will actively contribute to teaching and academic development at the university. His responsibilities will include supervising master’s theses related to the study, supporting the integration of research and teaching, participating in the planning and implementation of the study process, developing elective courses, and advising on the development of the physiotherapy curriculum. 

Project coordinator: Liane Rosenblatt, liane.rosenblatt@tartuh.ee

Contact: Ivi Vaher (PhD, Senior Lecturer, Department of Physiotherapy and Health Protection), ivi.vaher@tartuh.ee