Junhua Zhang
After studying in the department of Global Nursing at St. Luke’s International University Graduate School of Nursing, and the Health Social Behavior in the Department of Social Medicine at the University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, I obtained a Master’s degree in Nursing in 2019 and a Ph.D. in Medicine in 2024. Currently, I am a postdoctoral researcher at the Global Nursing Research Center (GNRC) of the University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine. I started my nursing career with a brief stint in China before spending three fulfilling years at a Japanese hospital specializing in cardiology. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of healthcare system but have also instilled in me a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and the universal importance of compassionate care. I am excited to apply these insights to my work here and to contribute to the vibrant academic community at UTokyo Nursing Department as a postdoctoral fellow. My main research theme is related to health behavior change, and I am currently focusing on self-care among patients with chronic diseases. I aim to explore the mechanisms of health behavior change in patients with chronic diseases, clarify its factors and influences, and develop and implement effective self-care support programs for these patients. Additionally, I am researching the current practices and challenges faced by foreign-educated nurses working in Japan. Furthermore, I am collaborating on research to improve the quality of long-term care and home care for the elderly. I am a member of the Japanese Nursing Association, the Japan Public Health Association and the Japan Epidemiological Association, etc.