Etsuko Yamashiro, PhD

Dr. Etsuko Yamashiro is a leading researcher and educator in the field of LGBT-Queer studies, specializing in sexual diversity, queer identity development, and inclusive sexual health. With over 12 years of academic and practical experience, she bridges rigorous research with community-based initiatives to advance understanding and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights globally.

Specialization

LGBT-Queer Sexual Health
Queer Identity and Mental Health
Inclusive Education and Policy
Community-Based Research
Intersectionality in Sexual Health

Education

2006–2010: BA in Sociology, University of Tokyo
2010–2012: MA in Gender Studies, Kyoto University
2012–2017: PhD in Queer Studies and Sexual Health, University of California, Berkeley

Professional Experience

2012–2015: Research Associate, Tokyo LGBT Research Center
2015–2020: Lecturer in Queer Studies, Kyoto University
2020–Present: Director, Global LGBT Health Initiative
Consultant for UNDP and WHO on LGBTQ+ inclusive health programs

Selected Scientific Publications

Yamashiro, E. (2021). "Queer Youth and Digital Spaces: Identity Formation and Community Support." Journal of LGBT Studies, 15(3), 212–234.
Yamashiro, E., & Lee, S. (2019). "Mental Health Disparities in LGBTQ+ Adolescents: Evidence from Japan and East Asia." International Journal of Sexual Health, 31(2), 145–167.
Yamashiro, E. (2017). "Community-Based Approaches to Queer Sexual Health Education." Global Sexuality Research Review, 9(1), 33–58.

Professional Memberships

International LGBTQ+ Health and Rights Network
World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH)
Asia-Pacific Queer Studies Association

Participation in International Projects

Project Rainbow: Led a 3-year cross-cultural research on LGBTQ+ mental health in East Asia (2018–2021). Result: Developed evidence-based guidelines now adopted by three regional health ministries.
Queer Digital Youth Initiative: Created online support and education programs for queer adolescents (2019–2022). Result: Over 15,000 participants reported improved understanding of sexual orientation and gender identity.
UNDP Inclusive Health Policy Advisory: Consulted on policy integration for LGBTQ+ rights in Southeast Asia (2020–Present). Result: Contributed to drafting first national LGBTQ+ health inclusion framework in the region.

Work on Educational Programs

Developed "Queer Health Curriculum" for universities and secondary schools across Asia
Trained over 500 educators and counselors on inclusive sexual education techniques
Produced digital modules addressing intersectionality, stigma, and mental health in LGBTQ+ populations

Case Studies & Research Highlights

Case Study: Implemented community workshops for transgender youth in Tokyo. Result: 80% of participants reported increased confidence in healthcare communication.
Research Insight: Survey of queer college students showed correlation between online peer networks and mental health resilience.
Project Outcome: Advocacy program for LGBTQ+ inclusive policies led to the official recognition of gender-diverse students in three universities in Japan.

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest on NHK World: "Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth in Education"
TEDx Kyoto Talk: "Breaking Cultural Barriers in Queer Health"
Host of "Queer Voices" podcast, discussing LGBTQ+ rights, health, and community stories

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Yamashiro combines academic expertise with actionable advocacy. Her work emphasizes community empowerment, intersectional approaches to health, and culturally sensitive interventions, making her a global authority in LGBTQ+ sexual health and education.