Q&A: Breast Imaging Researcher Natsuko Onishi Yamashita, MD, PhD
Natsuko Onishi Yamashita, MD, PhD
In honor of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, February 11, we express our gratitude for the remarkable women who drive excellence and innovation in the UCSF Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging. Today, we spotlight Natsuko Onishi Yamashita, MD, PhD, of the Breast Imaging Research Group.
What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine/science?
Seeing older generations of women struggle with social barriers, I realized the importance of obtaining validated skills to be fairly recognized. For me, that skill was medicine. I chose a career as a medical doctor due to its high level of professionalism and its significant contribution to society.
Natsuko Onishi Yamashita, MD, PhD, collaborates with a colleague.
Can you share a significant challenge and how you overcame it?
I moved to the U.S. after obtaining my Japanese board certification in radiology and a PhD in biomedical imaging and technology. However, as a mother of two, I found it challenging to obtain the U.S. medical license and redo residency in the U.S. Additionally, it was apparent that balancing the demands of patient care and parenting would be quite difficult. I needed flexibility to ensure I had time to spend with my children. Consequently, I transitioned from being a clinical radiologist to becoming an imaging scientist with a radiologist background. This shift provided me with the flexibility to manage my work, both physically and temporally.
In what ways is your work helping pave the way for future women scientists?
By actively participating in the scientific community and showcasing my contributions, I aim to demonstrate that women naturally belong in this field. I hope to help eliminate the preconception that barriers exist for women and girls in science. In the U.S., I feel that this change is becoming a reality compared to when I was younger in my home country, Japan. I hope to see similar progress in Japan in the future.
Please join us in celebrating Dr. Yamashita and all women radiologists and imaging scientists on International Day Of Women And Girls In Science!