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 Hiroshi Kondoh's research lab specializes in surface science and materials chemistry, focusing on the atomic-scale structure, growth mechanisms, and surface reactions of self-assembled monolayers, particularly alkanethiols on noble and transition metal surfaces. The lab employs advanced surface characterization techniques such as scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy, and photoelectron spectroscopy under ultrahigh- and ambient-pressure conditions to investigate molecule–substrate interactions, phase transitions, and catalytic reactions. A key research direction involves understanding the coverage-dependent desorption behavior and structural evolution of thiolate monolayers, as well as the role of surface electronic states in catalytic processes such as oxygen evolution and NO reduction. The lab also explores functional oxide interfaces for photoelectrochemical applications, emphasizing in situ probing of oxidation states and reaction dynamics.
Professor José Ordoñez-Miranda's research lab specializes in thermal transport phenomena at the nanoscale, with a focus on phase-change materials, thermal hysteresis, and the design of novel thermal devices inspired by electronic components. The lab investigates the fundamental mechanisms governing heat flow in complex systems, including nanocomposites, thin films, and quantum systems, using theoretical and computational approaches grounded in statistical mechanics and non-equilibrium thermodynamics. Key research directions include the development of thermal memristors, thermal diodes, and effective medium models for predicting thermal conductivity in heterogeneous materials.
Professor Kazuki Hashimoto's research lab specializes in ultrafast optical spectroscopy and advanced interferometric techniques for high-speed, high-resolution molecular analysis. The lab focuses on developing next-generation Fourier-transform and coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy systems that achieve unprecedented measurement speeds—exceeding 20,000 spectra per second—while maintaining high signal-to-noise ratios. Key innovations include rapid-scanning interferometers, dual-comb configurations, and phase-controlled detection schemes tailored for broadband mid-infrared and Raman spectroscopy. The lab’s work enables real-time monitoring of transient chemical dynamics, with applications in materials science, chemistry, and biomedical diagnostics.
Professor Fei Shen Ong's research lab specializes in advanced ceramic processing, with a focus on flash sintering techniques to achieve high-density, high-performance ceramics at reduced temperatures. The lab investigates the microstructural evolution, phase stability, and mechanical reliability of zirconia-based ceramics, particularly in mitigating low-temperature degradation and enhancing toughness. A key research direction involves developing scalable and reproducible sintering strategies—such as current-ramp flash sintering and optimized electrode configurations—for advanced ceramics and their joints with metals, especially in aerospace and high-temperature applications.
Professor Hiroki Oota's research lab specializes in population genetics and molecular anthropology, focusing on human genetic diversity, evolutionary history, and the genetic basis of complex diseases. The lab investigates mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA variation across Asian populations, with particular emphasis on East Asian and Pacific island populations, to reconstruct prehistoric migrations, population structure, and demographic transitions. A key focus is on understanding the genetic legacy of ancient populations, including the Yayoi, Jomon, and Ainu, through the analysis of ancient DNA and modern genetic data. The lab also explores the genetic architecture of inflammatory bowel diseases, particularly Crohn’s disease, comparing susceptibility loci across European and East Asian populations.
Professor Tatsuya Sugawara's research lab specializes in bioactive lipid chemistry, focusing on the identification, analysis, and functional characterization of glycolipids, carotenoids, and sphingolipids from natural sources such as edible plants, marine algae, and sea cucumbers. The lab investigates the physiological and pharmacological effects of these lipids, particularly their roles in cancer prevention, anti-angiogenesis, skin barrier protection, and anti-photoaging. Using advanced analytical techniques like HPLC-ELSD and cell-based assays, the lab explores structure-activity relationships and molecular mechanisms underlying the health benefits of dietary lipids. Their work bridges natural product chemistry with biomedical applications, emphasizing functional foods and nutraceuticals for disease prevention and skin health.
Professor Takeshi Nishimura's research lab specializes in evolutionary biology and comparative anatomy, focusing on the morphological and physiological adaptations underlying human speech and vocal communication. The lab investigates the evolution of the larynx, hyoid bone, and supralaryngeal vocal tract (SVT) through comparative studies in primates, combining medical imaging, acoustic analysis, and computational modeling. Key research directions include the developmental descent of the larynx in humans and apes, the role of laryngeal anatomy in enabling stable vocalization, and the evolutionary significance of nasal morphology in air conditioning and speech. The lab integrates paleoanthropological insights with modern physiological and biomechanical techniques to understand the origins of human speech.
Professor Genta Nakano's research lab focuses on transforming disaster risk reduction (DRR) education from knowledge-centric models to action-oriented, long-term learning approaches that foster proactive behaviors in communities. The lab investigates how science-based risk communication can be effectively co-constructed between experts and non-experts, particularly in vulnerable coastal communities, using innovative multimedia and participatory methods. A central theme is addressing the gap between knowledge acquisition and actual preparedness behavior, especially in school and community settings where contextualized, context-sensitive education is often lacking. The lab emphasizes longitudinal evaluation frameworks and consensus-building techniques to enhance real-world disaster resilience.
Professor Takahiro Kozawa's research lab specializes in materials synthesis and processing, with a focus on mechanochemistry, solid-state reactions, and advanced functional materials for energy and environmental applications. The lab develops innovative, low-temperature, and scalable methods—such as wet ball milling, water vapor-assisted calcination, and mechanochemical activation—to design and fabricate nanostructured materials with tailored morphologies and enhanced functionalities. Key research directions include the synthesis of high-performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, the safe transformation of hazardous wastes (e.g., asbestos), and the stabilization of amorphous solid electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries through controlled crystallization. The lab emphasizes sustainable materials processing by minimizing energy consumption and enabling the use of inexpensive raw materials.
Professor Shoji Kido's research lab specializes in medical image analysis and computational diagnostics, focusing on the application of advanced image processing and machine learning techniques—particularly convolutional neural networks (CNN) and region-based CNN (R-CNN)—to improve the detection and diagnosis of lung abnormalities such as nodules and diffuse lung diseases. The lab also investigates fractal analysis of high-resolution CT (HRCT) images to characterize tumor textures and interfaces, enabling differentiation between benign and malignant pulmonary nodules, including subtypes of bronchoalveolar carcinoma. Additionally, the lab contributes to virological diagnostics through molecular techniques like PCR for detecting varicella-zoster virus (VZV), linking viral load to clinical outcomes such as ocular damage in herpes zoster ophthalmicus. The integration of radiological, pathological, and molecular data underscores the lab’s multidisciplinary approach to precision diagnosis in pulmonary and infectious diseases.
Professor Yukihiro Akeda's research lab focuses on bacterial pathogenesis and antimicrobial resistance, with a particular emphasis on understanding the molecular mechanisms of type III secretion systems in pathogenic bacteria such as *Salmonella enterica*. The lab investigates essential virulence factors, including ATPases like InvC, to elucidate their roles in energy transduction and pathogenicity. Additionally, the lab is actively engaged in the genetic and molecular characterization of carbapenem-resistant bacteria, especially those carrying the New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM) gene, to combat the global threat of multidrug-resistant infections. Their work bridges structural microbiology, infectious disease mechanisms, and public health microbiology.
Professor Yuuki Uesugi's research lab specializes in ultrafast laser microprocessing and light-matter interactions, with a focus on advanced optical beam shaping, electron-optical manipulation using light, and the development of novel laser-based fabrication techniques. The lab explores the generation and application of structured light beams—such as radially and azimuthally polarized beams, optical vortices, and Bessel-Gaussian beams—for precision material processing and electron optics. Key research directions include femtosecond laser drilling of 2D materials like graphene, the use of optical standing waves to create tunable electron lenses, and the investigation of strong longitudinal fields in laser ablation for enhanced spatial resolution. The lab also contributes to biomedical applications, such as evaluating low-dose steroid therapy for rare dermatological conditions, demonstrating interdisciplinary impact.
Professor Zhiqian Yu's research lab focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying mood disorders, particularly major depressive disorder and postpartum depression, with an emphasis on glial cell function, autophagy, and neuroinflammation. The lab investigates molecular pathways involving microglia, astrocytes, and key signaling molecules such as TNF-α and FEZ1, exploring their roles in stress-induced behavioral changes and psychiatric disease progression. Using translational approaches combining animal models, postmortem brain analyses, and metabolic profiling, the lab aims to identify novel therapeutic targets for psychiatric disorders.
Professor Takayuki Tokoroyama's research lab specializes in the development and characterization of advanced carbon-based thin films, particularly diamond-like carbon (DLC) and CNx coatings, with a focus on their tribological properties and surface engineering applications. The lab investigates the influence of environmental factors—such as ultraviolet irradiation—on the chemical and mechanical performance of these coatings, employing advanced surface analysis techniques like XPS, AES, and Raman spectroscopy. A key research direction involves enhancing the depth resolution of Raman spectroscopy using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) with gold nanoparticles and sputtered gold, enabling precise structural analysis of ultra-thin carbon coatings on silicon substrates. The lab also explores the integration of nanomaterials and surface modification techniques to optimize coating durability and functionality for industrial applications.
Professor Masanao Nakamura's research lab specializes in advanced gastrointestinal endoscopy, focusing on the diagnosis and management of small-bowel disorders. The lab pioneers innovative capsule endoscopy and double-balloon endoscopy techniques to improve early detection and therapeutic intervention in obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. A key research direction involves evaluating gastrointestinal tract patency using tag-less wireless capsule endoscopy, particularly in patients with suspected stenosis. The lab also emphasizes clinical decision-making algorithms that optimize the use of endoscopic modalities based on imaging findings.
Professor Masahiro Nakatochi's research lab specializes in genomic epidemiology, focusing on identifying genetic and epigenetic factors underlying common complex diseases in the Japanese population. The lab conducts large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS), epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS), and meta-analyses to uncover genetic variants and DNA methylation sites linked to diseases such as myocardial infarction, gout, and pancreatic cancer. A key emphasis is on discovering population-specific genetic risk factors, particularly those relevant to Asian populations, and translating these findings into predictive risk models for early detection and prevention.
Professor Tomoyuki Ohara's research lab focuses on identifying modifiable lifestyle and metabolic factors influencing the development of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD), in the Japanese elderly population. The lab investigates the roles of metabolic markers such as postprandial glucose, dietary patterns (e.g., milk and dairy intake), sleep duration, smoking, tooth loss, and medication use (e.g., hypnotics) in dementia risk. Their work emphasizes longitudinal and population-based studies to uncover preventable contributors to cognitive decline.
Professor Atula S. D. Sandanayaka's research lab specializes in organic semiconductors, with a focus on developing high-performance optoelectronic materials and devices. Key research directions include the design and fabrication of organic lasers—particularly surface-emitting and distributed feedback lasers—using high-gain, low-loss organic semiconductors such as carbazole-based dyes. The lab also investigates charge transfer processes in mechanically interlocked molecules like rotaxanes, exploring their photoinduced electron transfer dynamics for potential applications in molecular electronics and artificial photosynthesis. Additionally, the group examines degradation mechanisms in organic light-emitting diodes to improve device stability and longevity.
Professor Michito Shimozuru's research lab specializes in wildlife ecology and conservation biology, with a primary focus on brown bears (Ursus arctos) in the wild, particularly in Hokkaido, Japan. The lab investigates key aspects of bear reproductive ecology, including parturition timing, multiple paternity, inbreeding, and the physiological adaptations linked to hibernation and lactation. Using long-term individual-based monitoring, molecular genetics, and physiological assessments—such as DNA methylation for age estimation—the lab integrates field ecology with biomedical techniques to inform effective wildlife management and conservation strategies. Their work also extends to understanding the impacts of early-life conditions on behavior and stress in mammals, as demonstrated in rat models.
Professor Yoshimasa Masuda's research lab focuses on enterprise architecture (EA) and digital transformation in the context of global healthcare and smart societies. The lab specializes in developing adaptive, integrated EA frameworks—particularly the Adaptive Integrated EA framework and the Adaptive Integrated Digital Architecture Framework (AIDAF)—to support digital transformation in cloud, mobile, and digital IT environments. Research emphasizes risk mitigation, architecture governance, and the integration of digital platforms in healthcare and manufacturing sectors, especially within Industry 4.0 and Society 5.0. The lab’s work bridges strategic IT planning with practical implementation in global enterprises, particularly in pharmaceutical and health technology industries.
