东京大学、京都大学、大阪大学等日本QS前10名大学的研究室信息。
Professor Kei Hayashi's research lab specializes in experimental orthopedic biomechanics and regenerative tissue engineering, with a primary focus on the thermal modification of joint capsular tissues for treating joint instability. The lab investigates the effects of controlled thermal energy—using lasers or radiofrequency devices—on the structural, mechanical, and biological properties of collagen-rich connective tissues, particularly in the shoulder and stifle joints. Key research directions include understanding the histological and ultrastructural changes in capsular tissue following thermal treatment, evaluating the resulting tissue shrinkage and mechanical recovery, and exploring the potential of thermal capsulorrhaphy as a minimally invasive surgical intervention. The lab also examines the pathophysiology of cranial cruciate ligament disease in dogs, emphasizing the role of chronic inflammation and tissue remodeling in ligament failure.
Professor Ko Matsui's research lab focuses on the cellular and synaptic mechanisms underlying neurotransmission in the central nervous system, with a particular emphasis on neuron-glia interactions. The lab investigates the roles of glutamate receptors and transporters in both neuronal and astrocytic signaling, especially in retinal and cerebellar circuits. Using advanced electrophysiological techniques such as patch-clamp recordings and quantitative electron microscopy, the lab explores how synaptic and ectopic release mechanisms contribute to neural communication and synaptic plasticity. A central theme is the functional integration of astrocytes in synaptic transmission, challenging the traditional view of neurons as the sole contributors to synaptic currents.
Professor Katsutoshi Hori's research lab specializes in microbial adhesion mechanisms, particularly focusing on environmental bacteria like Acinetobacter sp. Tol 5, which exhibit exceptional non-specific adhesiveness to both abiotic and biotic surfaces. The lab investigates trimeric autotransporter adhesins (TAAs), such as AtaA, to understand their structural and functional roles in surface attachment, biofilm formation, and environmental bioremediation. A key research direction involves linking bacterial surface properties—like hydrophobicity and filamentous appendages—to their performance in bioprocesses, including bioremediation of pollutants and sustainable production of biopolymers such as PHAs and rhamnolipids. The lab combines molecular microbiology, advanced electron microscopy, and surface characterization techniques to unravel the mechanisms of microbial-surface interactions at the nanoscale.
Professor Takeshi Hagio's research lab specializes in the development of advanced functional materials for environmental remediation and biomedical applications. Key research directions include the sustainable utilization of industrial and agricultural waste—such as rice husk ash and e-waste—for the synthesis of high-performance adsorbents and catalysts, with a focus on heavy metal and organic pollutant removal. The lab also investigates the anisotropic surface properties of bioceramics like hydroxyapatite to enhance their bioactivity and compatibility, and explores novel composite materials such as copper/diamond and MAX phase-based systems for efficient metal recovery and thermal management. These efforts are driven by a strong emphasis on green synthesis, material recyclability, and practical separation efficiency in real-world applications.
Professor Kazuhide Inoue's research lab specializes in neuroimmunology and pain mechanisms, with a primary focus on the role of spinal microglia and purinergic signaling in pathological pain, particularly neuropathic and diabetic pain. The lab investigates how microglial activation via p38 MAPK and P2X receptors—especially P2X4 and P2X7—contributes to pain hypersensitivity following nerve injury or metabolic disorders like diabetes. Using genetic, pharmacological, and electrophysiological approaches in rodent models, the lab aims to uncover novel molecular targets for treating intractable chronic pain. Their work bridges glial cell biology, ion channel function, and neuroinflammation to advance understanding of central sensitization in chronic pain states.
Professor Keiji Sasaki's research lab specializes in optical manipulation and characterization of micro- and nanoscale materials, with a focus on laser-based micromanipulation, optical trapping, and in-situ spectroscopic analysis. The lab develops advanced techniques for precise control and patterning of particles, droplets, and functional materials using scanning laser beams, enabling applications in microfluidics, biosensing, and nanofabrication. Key research directions include all-optical bistability in hybrid waveguide systems, pH microprobing with fluorescent particles, and spectral unmixing of complex mixtures using multivariate analysis.
Professor Akiko Tamakoshi's research lab specializes in epidemiological studies focusing on the long-term impact of lifestyle factors and biological markers on cancer risk and overall health outcomes. The lab's primary research direction involves large-scale cohort studies, such as the Japan Collaborative Cohort (JACC) Study, which have provided critical insights into the prevention of cancer through modifiable risk factors. The lab emphasizes population-based research using longitudinal data to identify associations between serum components, dietary habits, and disease incidence. Their work contributes significantly to public health policy and preventive medicine in Japan and beyond.
Professor Masahiro Suzuki's research lab specializes in multimodal machine learning and deep generative modeling, with a focus on cross-modal generation and joint representation learning across diverse data types such as text, images, and biological signals. The lab develops advanced variational autoencoder frameworks—like the Joint Multimodal Variational Autoencoder (JMVAE)—to enable bidirectional generation and robust inference in heterogeneous data environments. Additionally, the lab explores applications in biomedical engineering, including viral vector design for gene therapy and the evaluation of physiological functions such as swallowing reserve through surface electromyography. These interdisciplinary efforts bridge artificial intelligence with healthcare and life sciences.
Professor Takekazu Kunieda's research lab specializes in molecular and evolutionary biology, focusing on the mechanisms underlying extreme stress tolerance in non-model organisms, particularly tardigrades. The lab investigates the molecular basis of anhydrobiosis—life without water—by studying unique protective proteins such as CAHS and LEA-like proteins, as well as stress-responsive metabolic pathways. Using integrative 'omics' approaches, including proteomics and genomics, the lab explores how these organisms survive desiccation, radiation, and other extreme environments, with implications for biotechnology and synthetic biology. A central theme is understanding evolutionary innovations in stress protection systems across metazoans.
Professor Du Wen's research lab specializes in sustainable energy systems and environmental technology, with a strong focus on hydrogen energy pathways, including ammonia-based energy storage and conversion, power-to-x technologies, and fuel cell systems. The lab conducts integrated techno-economic and life cycle assessments to evaluate the environmental and economic performance of renewable energy solutions, particularly in the context of carbon neutrality and circular economy. Research also extends to educational technology, exploring AI adoption in STEM education and student engagement in mathematics learning through behavioral science models.
Professor Kazuki Hayashi's research lab specializes in computational structural design and geometry processing, focusing on the integration of machine learning, graph-based methods, and differential geometry to solve complex engineering optimization problems. The lab develops innovative algorithms combining reinforcement learning and graph embedding to optimize truss and frame structures for minimal volume under mechanical constraints, while also advancing the generation of freeform surfaces with constant curvature properties. Their work spans structural topology optimization, deployable auxetic mechanisms, and geometric surface modeling using curvature flows and energy-based formulations.
Professor Shinji Kakinaka's research lab specializes in econophysics and financial market analysis, focusing on the complex dynamics of cryptocurrency markets through advanced statistical and fractal methodologies. The lab investigates multifractal structures, asymmetric volatility, and scale-dependent price–volatility relationships using techniques such as detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) and stable distribution modeling. A central theme is understanding how market efficiency, investor behavior, and risk characteristics vary across time horizons and market regimes, particularly under stress conditions like the COVID-19 pandemic. The lab also explores the implications of investor heterogeneity and scale preferences for portfolio optimization and financial risk management.
Professor Yoichi Hoshimoto's research lab specializes in transition-metal-catalyzed organic synthesis, with a strong focus on nickel(0)-catalyzed transformations using N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands. The lab develops highly efficient, atom-economical reactions such as carbonylative cycloadditions and cross-coupling processes that enable the selective construction of complex nitrogen-containing heterocycles, including γ-lactams and 1,2-dihydropyridines. Key innovations include the use of aldehydes as dual reactants and activators, the design of robust Ni(0)/NHC precatalysts, and the development of novel CO sources for sustainable synthesis. The lab also explores mechanistic insights and stereochemical control to expand the scope and enantioselectivity of these transformations.
Professor Tetsuo Okada's research lab specializes in analytical and polymer chemistry, with a focus on ion chromatography, anion speciation, and the structural characterization of ionic species in solution and solid-state materials. His work explores the hydration behavior of anions in ion-exchange resins using X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy, as well as the thermodynamics and kinetics of complexation in poly(ethylene oxide) systems. The lab also investigates the fundamental mechanisms of crystallization in polymers, particularly isotactic polypropylene, using time-resolved light scattering techniques.
Professor Atsushi Okamoto's research spans geosciences and biophotonics, focusing on fluid-rock interactions in subduction zones and the development of advanced optical imaging techniques. His lab investigates hydrothermal processes, silica solubility, and carbonation reactions in geothermal and metamorphic environments, aiming to understand the role of fluids in crustal evolution and seismic activity. In parallel, the lab pioneers innovative optical technologies such as holographic diversity interferometry for high-precision phase detection, with applications in biomedical imaging and signal demodulation. The integration of experimental geology with cutting-edge optical instrumentation defines the interdisciplinary nature of the lab’s work.
Professor Mari Dezawa's research lab specializes in stem cell biology, focusing on the multipotency and lineage plasticity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow and adipose tissue. The lab investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying the transdifferentiation of MSCs into functional cell types beyond their native mesodermal lineages, including neurons, skeletal myocytes, and Schwann cells, using genetic engineering and defined differentiation protocols. A key focus is identifying and isolating rare pluripotent subpopulations such as adipose-Muse cells, which exhibit broad differentiation potential and self-renewal capacity. The lab aims to develop cell-based regenerative therapies for neurological, muscular, and peripheral nerve disorders.
Professor Tadashi Ito's research lab specializes in pediatric rehabilitation and musculoskeletal health, focusing on the impact of physical activity and lifestyle on children's motor development and physical function. The lab conducts longitudinal and cross-sectional studies using advanced gait analysis, body composition assessment, and functional performance tests to evaluate mobility, muscle strength, and gait patterns in children, particularly those with or without neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy. Research also examines the effects of external factors—like pandemic-related restrictions—on children’s physical health and motor function over time. The lab aims to establish normative gait standards and identify early markers of physical function decline to support preventive interventions.
Professor Keisuke Fujii's research lab specializes in the dynamics of collective behavior in biological and social systems, with a focus on understanding resilient, hierarchical cooperation in team sports and living organisms. The lab employs advanced data-driven methods—such as equation-free modeling, operator-theoretic spectral analysis, and nonlinear dynamics—to uncover hidden coordinative structures and decision-making processes in complex, multi-scale systems. Their work bridges the gap between individual actions and group-level functions, particularly in high-speed, interactive environments like team defense in sports. The lab integrates experimental data from real-world games with computational modeling to reveal principles of adaptive, resilient behavior under uncertainty.
Professor Hidetaka Arimura's research lab specializes in medical image analysis and computer-aided diagnosis, focusing on advancing precision medicine through radiomics and artificial intelligence. The lab develops innovative image processing and machine learning techniques for early detection and prognosis prediction of brain and lung diseases using MRI and CT imaging. Key research directions include computerized detection of intracranial aneurysms, survival prediction in lung cancer, and radiomic modeling for radiation-induced toxicity, particularly pneumonitis in stereotactic radiotherapy. The lab emphasizes the integration of advanced imaging features with clinical outcomes to improve diagnostic accuracy and personalized treatment planning.
Professor Tsutomu Watanabe's research spans microbial genetics, particularly the molecular mechanisms of antibiotic resistance transfer in Enterobacteriaceae, including episomal R factors and their transduction via bacteriophages. His work also extends into theoretical condensed matter physics, focusing on strongly correlated electron systems, such as the Mott transition and d-wave superconductivity in organic conductors like κ-BEDT-TTF₂X. Additionally, he has contributed to atomic collision theory, particularly in ionization processes involving excited atoms. His interdisciplinary research bridges microbiology, quantum physics, and atomic physics with a strong emphasis on molecular mechanisms and theoretical modeling.
