I am Yuhei Takido, a Research Fellow in the Rutka Lab.

I received my medical degree from Nagoya University and completed neurosurgical residency training in Japan. Through subsequent clinical training, I developed broad experience in neurosurgery across both pediatric and adult populations and became a Board certified neurosurgeon (Japan Neurosurgical Society).

During my doctoral training at Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, I began brain tumour research spanning both clinically oriented and laboratory-based work. My projects included analysing Tumor Treating Fields in glioblastoma, developing rapid genetic diagnostic approaches for glioma, and conducting preclinical studies evaluating and developing oncolytic virus–based immunotherapies for malignant glioma.

In April 2026, I joined the Rutka Lab, where my research interests include preclinical neuro-oncology, with a focus on tumour metabolism and approaches that enhance therapeutic delivery to the brain.

My interest in science comes from questions that arise in the operating room and at the bedside. In neurosurgery, you can see both the impact and the limits of current treatments, especially for malignant brain tumours. Research gives me a way to turn those clinical problems into testable questions and, over time, contribute to better options for patients and families.

My favourite part about working at the BTRC is the people and the shared sense of purpose. Team members are consistently kind, supportive, and collaborative, and it’s an environment where it’s easy to learn from others and move ideas forward. I also value being able to feel the voices of patients and families who encourage and motivate brain tumour research, and I’m inspired by the strong unity and momentum under Dr. Rutka’s leadership to confront these difficult diseases together.

Stay curious and be persistent. Try different research environments early, find mentors who support you, and don’t be afraid to ask basic questions. Setbacks are part of the process—progress often comes from steady effort, clear communication, and good teamwork. In everyday life, practice forming your own answers to questions and checking whether your reasoning is logically consistent and free of leaps—this habit is where science begins.

I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling together. We all love Disney, so visiting the parks is something we always look forward to. I also enjoy fishing and am excited to explore what kinds of fish are in and around Toronto, as well as staying active through swimming and other sports.

Shun Oguri — I’m always drawn to his calm, intelligent presence and his wide range as an actor. Many people also recognize him from Godzilla vs. Kong, and I think he could capture my story with both focus and sincerity.