Hi, I'm Akiko — a bilingual researcher and startup consultant based in Tokyo.
I specialize in market research, scientific content planning, and bilingual communication in genomics, health tech, and education.
My past work includes leading genomic research and product development at Genomelink (a Y Combinator-backed DNA startup), contributing to scientific reports (e.g. Nutrition, Ancient Bloodline, Personality), and co-leading communication projects such as Weekly Traits and YourRoots — translating complex science into user-friendly storytelling.
While at Genomelink, I worked from its U.S. office located within Berkeley SkyDeck, where I engaged with global founders, researchers, and investors in the startup ecosystem.
More recently, I work with deep-tech startups and innovation teams through strategy sessions, helping translate user insights into product direction, market positioning, and real-world use cases.
I also built a reference database of 500+ GWAS and PRS studies and contributed to research-driven content development across multiple domains.
Earlier in my career, I was accepted as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the National Institute of Genetics (NIG, Japan), which recognized my research capabilities in bioinformatics and molecular genetics.
Although I transitioned to industry, this foundation continues to shape my data-driven and research-oriented approach.
Beyond research, I’ve served as a mentor for PhD founders and deep-tech entrepreneurs through Beyond Next Ventures and other programs, supporting commercialization, global communication, and market validation.
I work fluently in both English and Japanese, and I enjoy helping ideas grow into real-world products through research, strategy, and storytelling.
I am building a research-driven genomics insight series for founders, investors, and decision-makers in life sciences.
This work focuses on translating complex scientific and market developments into structured, actionable insights, particularly in areas such as clinical implementation, emerging technologies, and market trends.
Each insight is based on scientific literature, industry signals, and real-world applications, with an emphasis on supporting strategic decision-making.
I work at the intersection of genomics, market insight, and search behavior.