Dr Yoshiro Okubo obtained his PhD at the University of Tsukuba, Japan, where he investigated the influence walking had on falls in seniors. He was awarded the Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences Chair Award from the University of Tsukuba as well as a Postdoctoral Fellowship for Research Abroad by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science.

Dr Okubo is now part of the Falls, Balance and Injury Research Centre at NeuRA. His research focuses on helping people learn to better respond to trips, slips and prevent falls. He is hopeful that this work will ensure that older people can maintain their independence as they age.