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 Takuya Nishimura's research lab specializes in geodetic and seismological investigations of active tectonics, with a focus on interplate and intraplate deformation processes along subduction zones. The lab employs high-precision GPS and GNSS data to study slow earthquake phenomena, such as slow slip events and post-seismic deformation, particularly in Japan’s tectonically active regions including the Nankai Trough, Ryukyu Trench, and northeastern Japan. Their work integrates geodetic observations with elastic dislocation and viscoelastic modeling to understand the spatiotemporal evolution of strain accumulation and release in subduction zones. The lab also investigates crustal deformation associated with volcanic activity and earthquake swarms, especially in the Izu Islands and the Basin and Range Province.
Professor Momoko Nagai-Tanima's research lab focuses on public health and preventive medicine, with a strong emphasis on health literacy, mental well-being in young and older adults, and the impact of social and environmental factors on health outcomes. Her work explores the role of digital and interpersonal communication in shaping health knowledge—particularly during public health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic—and investigates physical and mental health trajectories across the lifespan, including in youth sports injuries and maternal health. The lab also contributes to understanding rare neurodevelopmental disorders such as holoprosencephaly through molecular genetics research.
Professor Guillaume Bourque's research lab specializes in computational and evolutionary genomics, focusing on the role of transposable elements and repetitive DNA in shaping genome architecture, regulatory networks, and evolutionary innovation. The lab investigates lineage-specific regulatory elements, genome rearrangements, and the functional impact of repetitive sequences—particularly endogenous retroviruses—on chromatin accessibility and gene regulation across mammals. By integrating comparative genomics, epigenomic data, and advanced computational methods, the lab aims to uncover the evolutionary forces driving genomic and regulatory complexity. Their work also emphasizes the development of scalable bioinformatics tools, such as GenPipes, to support customizable, high-throughput genomic analysis workflows.
Professor Kohsuke Honda's research lab specializes in synthetic and systems biology, focusing on the design and engineering of artificial metabolic pathways for sustainable chemical production. The lab pioneers *in vitro* metabolic engineering by reconstituting multi-enzyme cascades in a test tube, enabling efficient and modular biosynthesis of industrial chemicals without the constraints of living cells. A key innovation involves the use of artificial operons to co-express multiple thermophilic enzymes with controlled expression levels, enhancing pathway efficiency and stability. The lab also develops advanced biocatalytic systems that integrate enzymes from diverse biological sources to create novel, high-yielding metabolic routes.
Professor Yuki Tahata's research lab specializes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance and treatment, with a focus on optimizing post-sustained virologic response (SVR) management in patients previously infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The lab investigates predictive models for HCC development after DAA therapy, evaluates real-world efficacy and safety of immunotherapy (e.g., atezolizumab plus bevacizumab), and identifies biomarkers such as AFP and ALT levels for risk stratification. Their work bridges virology, oncology, and precision medicine to improve long-term outcomes in liver cancer patients.
Professor Huihong Liu's research lab specializes in the green synthesis and functionalization of nanomaterials, with a strong focus on sustainable and eco-friendly methods using biopolymers like sodium alginate. The lab develops silver and gold nanoparticles for applications in textiles and metals, emphasizing environmental safety, biocompatibility, and enhanced material performance. Key research directions include nanoparticle synthesis using natural reducing agents, surface plasmon resonance characterization, and functionalization of fabrics and metals for antimicrobial and structural applications.
Professor Fiona Louis's research lab specializes in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with a focus on developing advanced in vitro models for adipose and muscle tissue regeneration. The lab investigates the role of the extracellular matrix, biomechanical cues, and cellular mechanotransduction—particularly through RhoGTPase signaling—under both physiological and microgravity conditions. A key direction involves engineering prevascularized, biofunctionalized hydrogels and bioprinted constructs to enhance tissue maturation, vascular integration, and long-term graft survival, with applications in soft tissue reconstruction and cultured meat production.
Professor Amelia Katirai's research lab focuses on the ethical, social, and environmental dimensions of emerging health technologies, particularly artificial intelligence in healthcare. The lab investigates public and patient perspectives on AI, examines the governance and ethical principles guiding AI development, and explores the unintended consequences—such as environmental costs and impacts on neurodiverse populations—of technological innovation. A central theme is the integration of patient and public voices into research priority-setting and policy-making, especially in underfunded areas like rare diseases.
Professor Toshihide Takeuchi's research lab specializes in the development and application of bioactive molecule delivery systems, particularly focusing on cell-penetrating peptides and extracellular vesicles for intracellular delivery and diagnostic applications. The lab investigates the mechanisms of cellular uptake, especially the switch from endocytic to direct membrane translocation induced by chemical modulators like pyrenebutyrate, and explores non-cell-autonomous proteostasis regulation through molecular chaperones. Additionally, the lab examines the role of adhesion molecules such as T-cadherin in disease contexts and designs synthetic olfactory receptor-like systems for chemosensing in lipid bilayers. These interdisciplinary efforts bridge cell biology, chemical biology, and nanobiotechnology to advance therapeutic delivery and disease diagnostics.
Professor Yuya Tanaka's research lab specializes in the design and synthesis of functional organometallic and coordination complexes, with a focus on molecular wires, host-guest systems, and photoresponsive materials. The lab explores metal-ligand and metal-metal interactions to engineer materials with tunable electronic, optical, and redox properties, particularly emphasizing platinum(II) and iron/ruthenium complexes. Key research directions include photochromic switching, supramolecular recognition, and single-molecule conductance, leveraging advanced spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques. The work bridges molecular architecture with functional materials for applications in molecular electronics and smart materials.
Professor Takaaki Mizuki's research lab specializes in cryptography, particularly in the field of card-based cryptography and secure multi-party computation. The lab focuses on designing simple, efficient, and information-theoretically secure protocols using physical cards to realize fundamental cryptographic operations such as AND gates. A key research direction involves minimizing the number of cards and simplifying shuffling operations while maintaining security and practicality. The lab also explores the theoretical limits of card-based protocols, especially under constraints like uniform and closed shuffles.
Professor Yoshiaki Kawajiri's research lab specializes in the advanced simulation, optimization, and control of simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography processes, with a focus on industrial separations in pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and biotechnology. The lab develops systematic, dynamic optimization frameworks that integrate transient experimental data and parameter estimation to achieve high-purity, high-productivity separations with minimal manual tuning. Key research directions include full and single discretization methods for solving complex PDAE-constrained optimization problems, and the design of innovative operating schemes such as time-variant flow rate configurations. The lab emphasizes the application of state-of-the-art numerical solvers like IPOPT to enable efficient and reliable process optimization.
Professor Takahiro Seki's research lab specializes in photoresponsive soft materials, with a focus on molecular and macromolecular systems that exhibit light-induced structural and functional changes. Key research directions include photoalignment of liquid crystals, azobenzene-based molecular switches, and stimuli-responsive gels such as slide-ring topological gels. The lab explores the design and application of smart materials for advanced optoelectronic and biomedical devices, emphasizing precise control over molecular orientation and dynamic behavior through light irradiation. Their work bridges fundamental photophysics with practical applications in display technologies and responsive materials.
Professor Hong Zhu's research lab specializes in intelligent transportation systems, with a focus on adaptive traffic signal control, digital twin technology, and microscopic traffic simulation. The lab investigates dynamic traffic management strategies using multi-agent reinforcement learning, cellular automata modeling, and advanced simulation frameworks to address real-world challenges such as downstream queue effects, capacity drop, and start-up lost time. Key research directions include the development of data-driven adjustment models for signal performance and the integration of digital twins for real-time, synchronized traffic control under uncertain conditions.
Professor Takeshi Imai's research lab focuses on the developmental and functional mechanisms underlying neuronal circuit assembly in the olfactory system, with a particular emphasis on axon guidance, topographic map formation, and sensory information processing. The lab investigates how odorant receptors and intracellular signaling molecules such as cAMP regulate the precise targeting of olfactory sensory neuron axons to specific glomeruli in the olfactory bulb. Using a combination of genetic, imaging, and electrophysiological approaches in mice, the lab explores how axon-axon interactions, guidance molecules (e.g., Neuropilin-1 and Semaphorin-3A), and receptor-specific signaling shape the functional architecture of the olfactory system. Their work reveals fundamental principles of neural wiring specificity and sensory map formation that extend beyond olfaction to other sensory systems and brain development.
Professor Akihiro Ishizu's research lab focuses on innate immunity, particularly the role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The lab investigates NETosis—both suicidal and vital forms—with an emphasis on their pathophysiological roles in conditions like MPO-ANCA-associated vasculitis. Using advanced flow cytometry techniques, the lab develops quantitative methods to assess NET formation and explores therapeutic interventions, including intravenous immunoglobulins, to modulate NET-driven inflammation. The research also extends to immune cell crosstalk, including NKT cell functions and endothelial barrier regulation.
Professor Atsushi Komuro's research lab specializes in plasma physics and atmospheric-pressure streamer discharges, focusing on the fundamental mechanisms of reactive species generation, gas heating dynamics, and streamer propagation in non-thermal plasmas. The lab combines advanced two-dimensional numerical simulations with experimental validation using ICCD photography, streak imaging, and Schlieren visualization to investigate radical production (e.g., OH, O, N), vibrational energy transfer, and plasma–flow interactions. Key research directions include the role of pulse rise rate, voltage amplitude, and gas composition (dry air, humid air, O₂–N₂ mixtures) in controlling plasma chemistry and energy transfer processes. The lab also explores applications in plasma actuators and flow control via nanosecond-pulsed dielectric barrier discharges.
Professor Robert Blasiak's research lab focuses on the intersection of ocean governance, marine biodiversity, and global environmental justice. His work explores the equity implications of marine resource use, particularly in areas beyond national jurisdiction, with a strong emphasis on marine genetic resources, international law, and the distribution of scientific and technological capacity. The lab investigates how climate change and industrial exploitation affect vulnerable nations and ecosystems, while advocating for inclusive, transparent, and legally sound frameworks for ocean conservation and sustainable use.
Professor Shisei Tei's research lab specializes in the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying empathy, social cognition, and mental health, with a particular focus on how empathy and cognitive flexibility contribute to burnout in medical professionals and psychopathology in conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and social anxiety. The lab integrates behavioral assessments, functional neuroimaging (fMRI), and psychological questionnaires to explore the interplay between brain function, emotional regulation, and social behavior. Key research directions include empathy-related burnout, the role of the temporoparietal junction and prefrontal cortex in cognitive control, and the neurocognitive basis of social anxiety and egocentricity in neurodevelopmental disorders.
Professor Tetsuya Hirono's research lab specializes in neuromuscular physiology and exercise science, focusing on the mechanisms underlying muscle adaptation to resistance training, time-of-day variations in neuromuscular function, and the effects of rapid weight cycling in athletes. The lab employs advanced imaging techniques such as ultrasonography to investigate muscle swelling, hypertrophy, and changes in muscle architecture in response to different training and recovery protocols. A key focus is understanding how metabolic stress, rest periods, and neural excitability influence muscle growth and performance, particularly in young and older adults as-well as elite athletes.
