Physics
Laboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p s

Solid-State Physics Group●Solid-State Physics Research GroupThe work of our group is centered on the physics of intermetallic
compounds of rare-earth and actinide elements. We use a variety ofsample growth techniques to prepare high-quality single crystals,
and are able to measure electrical resistivity, magnetization, specificheat, thermal expansion, and thermoelectric power at low
temperatures, in high magnetic fields, and under high pressures. Ourcurrent research focuses on (1) remarkable magnetically orderedstates, (2) anomalous behavior in the vicinity of a quantum critical point,(3) exotic superconductivity, and(4) multipolar ordering in strongly
correlated -electron systems.
Our ultimate goal is to discover
new materials with novel physicalproperties and to contribute to
the welfare of humanity throughPreparation of rare-earth compounds in an arc furnace
their practical application.
●Crystal Physics Research GroupAll mater is made of atoms. The differences in their arrangements
and interatomic bonds give matter its various fascinating properties.
We analyze atomic-level structures and measure the various
properties of condensed matter, and investigate the relationships
between the microscopic structuresand properties of matter. We use
X-rays and synchrotron radiation in
our structural analyses and measureelectrical and optical properties
under various conditions. Come
explore the world of nano-space
A graduate student demonstrating the use ofwith us!
vacuum deposition equipment

Quantum Physics Group●Theoretical Physics Research GroupIn what form does ultimate matter exist, and how does it react? Whattheories are needed to describe the world of elementary particles?
How did the universe come into existence, and how will it continue
to expand?
We engage these and similar questions head-on. We conduct theoreticalresearch to investigate the deepest
mysteries of nature by using the fullpower of our brains and computers.
We use observations based on keen
physical intuition in conjunction
with advanced mathematics andcalculations performed on computers.

For all those who wish to bea part of Faculty of Science
Our Faculty of Science is a prestigious institution where students
learn nobility, culture, and academics. They receive a well-roundededucation through interactions with professors and friends, andcultivate intellectual, moral, and applied skills that they will needlater in life.
Our faculty comprises six departments: Mathematics, Physics,
Chemistry, Biology, Earth Sciences, and Environmental Biology
and Chemistry. The professors, undergraduates, and graduates ineach department work together in various research fields toelucidate the mechanisms of nature. We also conduct research
into the application of the principles and laws of nature, as wellas into local and global environmental problems. The ability ofscience to add to the vast wealth of our knowledge is truly
fascinating and creates the foundation for today s technology.
Our faculty develops students into skilled professionals who canapply what they have learned to identify and solve problems witha broad field of view. Besides our advanced specialized subjects,
our faculty offers fundamental subjects that span all scientificfields. Students can also take specialized courses in otherdepartments. Foreign professors conduct workshops on scientificEnglish and foreign languages as well as overseas foreign
language study programs to give students an advantage on theinternational stage. Our faculty places great emphasis on smallclass sizes and interactive education, providing extensive
one-on-one guidance for graduate thesis research̶the culminationof four years. We are working tirelessly toward education reform, withevery professor here striving to produce active scientific professionals.

We have completed the expansion and renovation of the facultybuildings, thereby improving our ability to provide a fulfilling
education. We truly hope that you enjoy studying science here
and perfect your scientific skills. We are looking forward towelcoming you to our faculty.

ToyamaPrefecture

A spectral measurement experiment using microwaves

Physics

Chemistry

Our faculty is located in the midst of Toyama s spectacularnature, a 4000m stretch from the Tateyama Mountains toToyama Bay. Our location is ideal for studying science.

A physics seminar●Microwave and Laser Research GroupWe use electromagnetic waves̶from microwaves to laser light̶toresearch physical phenomena of the microscopic world, including
molecules in a gaseous state and atomic and molecular ionstrapped in enclosed spaces. In particular, we are closely
investigating molecular structures and interactions between atoms
and molecules and how they absorb and emit light.
This knowledge of atoms, molecules,
and light will not only deepen our
understanding of matter, but will also
be useful in our search to understandwhat molecules exist, and in whatstate, in the universe tens of
thousands of light years away.

Mathematics

Biology
Earth
Sciences

Environmental
Biology andChemistry

Faculty of Science, University of Toyama

For more details click here.
http://www.sci.u-toyama.ac.jp/

Mathematics
Laboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p sMathematical Analysis GroupWe teach and research topics related to pure mathematics ingeometry, algebra, and analysis. Our goal is to provide students asmall taste of the world of pure mathematics, and to allow them toexperience the beauty of abstract mathematics and learn how tocreate sound theories.
Our research topics include the following:(１) Geometry, to explore the nature of spatial figures, and manifolds
that generalize the concepts of curved lines and surfaces. (Arecomputers useful in sharpening our mathematical way ofviewing abstract geometrical structures?)(２) Complex function theory, to explore the nature of complex
functions (functions that assign to each complex number anotherone). (Chaos, and fractals, with their extravagant shapes, also
fall under this theory.)(３) Number theory, to encode information into binary data, toverify transmitted data, and to authenticate Web transactions.
,, and(４) Algebra, to explore the nature offor abstractly handling addition, multiplication, and othercalculations. (There is a subtle beauty to the theories behind
this ancient field.)

A view of a class using a blackboard

Library of Mathematics

Mathematical Science and Informatics Group
The teachers in this group develop mathematical analyses andmethods for mathematical phenomena. Our goal is to use computers
to master the analysis of mathematical phenomena using mathematicalmethods.
Our research topics include the following:(１) Differential equation theory, to investigate the nature of differential
equation analysis. ( Differential equation is a mathematical term
used to describe various phenomena.)(２) Modeling of mathematical phenomena and mathematical andnumerical analysis of their model equations. (More complex
phenomena for which model equations have only been solved
numerically are also dealt with.)(３) Probability theory, to analyze phenomena governed by chance.
(Probability theory has contributed greatly to the advancementof financial theories.)(４) Coding theory using algebraic methods. (Coding theory is
critical in internet communications and will play a key role in its
further development.)(５) Fusing mathematics and systems engineering to open new
possibilities in mathematics.

Faculty of Science, University of Toyama
3190 Gofuku, Toyama 930-8555, JAPAN
Phone: +81-76-445-6546
E-mail: koho2013@sci.u-toyama.ac.jp
URL: http://www.sci.u-toyama.ac.jp/

A class using computers

A research presentation

Chemistry

Biology

Laboratory

Earth Sciences

Laboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p s

Environmental Biology and Chemistry

Laboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p sLaboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p s

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p s

Reaction and Molecular Field Chemistry Groups

Structural Biology Group

Geosphere Physics Group

Environmental and Analytical Chemistry Group●Group 1 (Physical Chemistry)
Group 1 studies catalysts, which are important substances in the
manufacture of numerous industrial chemicals. Catalysts are also
widely used to eliminate pollutants, such as NOx, or mal-odors fromthe environment. Although catalysts arewidely used, the underlying mechanisms of
their activities can be complicated and varied.
Our major interests lie in conducting boththeoretical and experimental basic researchto acquire a more thorough understanding
Determining the quantity of adsorbentsof these catalytic interactions.
on the surfaces of catalysts

Biology is not constant; it changes with time. Part of that change ismorphogenesis, which we can observe within individuals, and alonger process called phylogeny. However, biology is not just about
describing processes. A major theme of biology is the search for
explanations of why evolution happens and by what mechanisms.
We comprehensively research these facets and strive to understandthe diversity of all living things. The professors here are experts inplant and animal morphology, embryology, taxonomy, andphylogenetic systematics. Thus, the study of phylogenetic systems
is one of the most distinctive research areas of this group. However,
our research is not limited to just these topics; you will findprofessors who investigate plant chromosomes and research thevarious shapes and structures of insects, systems in marine life, andthe phylogenetic relationships and evolution of animals using genetic
information. As we enter the 21st century amid the concerns ofmassive animal extinctions caused by human activities, a proper
understanding of animal diversity is becoming essential. Students
and staff in the Structural Biology Group work intently around theclock to study the diversity of life.

We research primarily three subjects: The first subject is geomagnetism,
which is generated by the Earth s core and is constantly changing in
direction and strength. We use remanent magnetization ( petrified
geomagnetism ) recorded in rocks and sediment, as well as
observations, to research these geomagnetic fluctuations. We are also
investigating plate movement, environmental changes, ore genesis andtheir archaeological applications. The second subject is glaciology.
Our research interests are diverse and range from basic research into
the physical properties and growth of snow and ice crystals to
research into information related to atmospheric and environmental
changes stored in accumulated snow. One particular feature is ourresearch into the snow cover and snowy ravines of the northern
Japanese Alps by making use of the regional characteristics ofToyama. The third area involves oceanic phenomena. We are analyzing
ocean observational data and performing numerical simulations toclarify the structure and variability of the seas around Japan, such as
Toyama Bay and the Japan Sea, to help solve global environmental
problems.

As human activity continues to expand and diversify, the chemical
substances from such activities have caused various environmental
problems such as global warming and water and air pollution which
require urgent attention.
The Environmental and Analytical Chemistry Group takes a chemical
approach in order to clarify and solve environmental problems. For
example, we are developing simple and rapid analytical methods tomeasure harmful components related to environmental pollution in thebiosphere and are using these methods to survey the environmental
water collected from rivers, lakes, seas (e.g., Toyama Bay), and groundwater, as well as bottom sediment, soil, and air. We study the dynamics
of these components, and on the basis of our findings, perform basic
research into the removal and degradation of highly toxic components
in waste water. Furthermore, we are investigating ways to elucidate
the origins of and changes in substances deeply connected to the global
environment, the distribution andcycling of these substances on the
Earth s surface, and the mechanisms
underlying their origin and distribution.
Our indices include rainwater,river water, groundwater, seawater,
gasses, and other components,
trace components, and isotopes.
Collecting water from Toyama Bay●Group 2 (Photochemistry)
Group 2 researches the photophysicalproperties and photochemical reactionsof luminescent transition-metal complexes
with potential applications in organic
light-emitting diodes and solar cells. Basic
research into the photophysics andphotochemistry of these complexes will leadto the development of new photofunctional
compounds.

Measuring photoluminescence lifetimes
at low temperatures●Group 3 (Inorganic/Analytical Chemistry)
Strong laser irradiation can drive molecules in solution to an
extremely hot (nonequilibrium) state so rapidly that the molecules
can exhibit unusual, exotic properties. We
combine methods of solution chemistry(thermodynamics) and photochemistry (lasers)
to explore the structures and reactivities ofsuch solutes, ions, and molecular assemblies,
with a focus on their potential applications
in medicine, therapy, and optical devices.
Synthesizing a complex compound●Group 4 (Coordination Chemistry）
Coordination compounds, being composed of metal ions andorganic/inorganic ligands, have huge diversity and potential. In thislaboratory, coordination compounds with novel structures andproperties are being prepared. Our interests are divided into three areas:
1. emissive coordination complexes;
2. multinuclear complexes that respond toexternal stimuli; and3. functional complexes, inspired by renewableenergy conversion in nature, which exhibit
catalytic activity toward the reduction ofCO2, O2, and N2.
Synthesis of luminescent metal complexes

Synthetic Organic Chemistry Groups●Group 1 (Organic Chemistry)
Group 1 synthesizes numerous compounds with new, hitherto
unknown properties, and then investigates the intricacies of theirstructures. Some of the compounds we have created include
fragrant compounds and emerald crystals.
The nature of such compounds and theirmolecular structure are intimately related.
Currently, we are developing compounds
that are highly responsive to heat, light,
and magnetic fields.

Synthesizing functional compounds●Group 2 (Natural Products Chemistry)
Numerous bioactive organic compounds
occur in nature, many of which possess
complex structures with large numbers ofasymmetrical carbon atoms. Group 2 isdeveloping useful reactions for the synthesis ofsuch complex-structured organic compounds,
and is applying these compounds to thesynthesis of bioactive natural products.

Results of a computer simulation of Yorimawari waves .

Geodynamics Group

Field study in zoology

Laboratory in structural biology

Graduation thesis presentation

Regulatory Biology GroupWe humans, as well as many plants and animals, come from one
fertilized egg and grow into multicellular organisms with a defined
shape or form. The cells that make up an individual plant or animal
differentiate into various types and play specific roles. We research,from various angles, how these diverse cells cooperate and cometogether to create an individual organism. Our professors of botany
work to elucidate the mechanism of plant growth at the cellular andgenetic levels; the regulatory mechanism of gene expression related
to photosynthesis and fatty acid synthesis; and the genes related tothe differentiation of leaves, roots, and other organs. The professorsof zoology use morphological, physiological, and molecular biologicalmethods to research various control mechanisms related toenvironmental conditions such as light, internal clock and sleep
control mechanisms, various regulatory mechanisms related towater and electrolyte metabolism, and the role of neuropeptides inhormonal behavior. Here in the 21st century̶the age of life sciences
̶we need to better understand various biological phenomena. Toward
this end, we, together with our students, are all actively engaged in
educational and research activities.

Synthesizing natural products●Group 3 (Biofunctional Chemistry)
RNAs play versatile roles in biological systems because they not only
serve as a genetic material but also act as functional molecules.
Group 3 studies the molecular basis ofnaturally occurring RNAs with catalytic andreceptor functions. Another interest of ourgroup lies in the artificial generation ofRNAs with desirable functions through 3D structures of RNAs with catalytic
and receptor functions
rational and evolutional approaches.

Examining snow cover on Tateyama s Murodo Plateau.

Laboratory in regulatory biology

Field studies in marine biology

Introductory seminar on biology

From deep within the Earth to the skies above us, we are studying
ongoing dynamic phenomena of our planet. For understanding ofearthquakes and plate motions, we are conducting surveys of active
faults, GPS observations of crustal movements, and experimental
studies on physical properties of rocks. We are also conducting marine
observations, such as coastal gravity measurements utilizing airplanes
and ships, and seabed surveys by submersible vehicles. Using global
meteorological observation networks and climate models, we are
exploring the mechanisms behind changes in monsoon circulations andextraordinary weather phenomena. We are also working to unlock the
global warming problem using cloud and aerosol observations.

Experimental studies with high pressure
apparatuses in a Geodynamics laboratory.

Measurements of aerosol and cloud opticalproperties at the Mt. Tateyama.

Geological Science GroupWe research the evolution of the interior and surface environments ofthe Earth (Earth history) using clues in the rocks, minerals, strata, andfossils on the Earth s surface. We can observe on the Earth s surface
fragments of mantle and a 4-billion-year-old continent; some rocks
even carry information related to the Earth s core. By studying strata
and fossils, we can reconstruct plate movements and environmental
and biospherical changes of the past. Furthermore, past volcanic
ejecta hold the key to predicting future eruptions. Attaching great
importance to fieldwork, we aim to cultivate the ability of students tocollect voluminous data and ideas from the outdoors. The ability to
conduct proper fieldwork cannot be cultivated in physics, chemistry,or other disciplinary fields, and we hope it will greatly help you in yourfuture career.

Geological survey into the summit crater of Nantai Volcano.

A scene from a geological survey in Mongolia.

River flow measurement

Determination of anionic surfactants

Environmental Biology GroupThe first life is believed to have appeared over a geologically brief
period some 3.5 billion years ago. Since then, organisms have had
an enormous effect on the formation of the Earth s environment;
however, more to the point, the organisms themselves have adapted
to their environment and evolved an exquisite system for living.
The Environmental Biology Group conducts a broad rangeof research on the mechanisms
underlying biofunctions, from thecellular level to the ecosystemlevel, to deepen our understandingof interactions between organisms
and the environment. Examples ofour research include the following:
1. Elucidation of tolerance mechanisms Dissection of a wild animal (Raccoon Dog)
to environmental stress in higher
plants.
2. Methods of evaluating and reclaiming
polluted water in the environment
using microorganisms.
3. The relationship between plants
and insect pollinators.
4. The effects of global environmental Plant survey on Satoyamachanges on alpine vegetation in
the Tateyama Mountains.
We are also making strides in our
research into the conservation ofwild organisms, such as mammals
and parasites.
Field trip to the Tateyama Mountains

Chemistry

Biology

Laboratory

Earth Sciences

Laboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p s

Environmental Biology and Chemistry

Laboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p sLaboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p s

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p s

Reaction and Molecular Field Chemistry Groups

Structural Biology Group

Geosphere Physics Group

Environmental and Analytical Chemistry Group●Group 1 (Physical Chemistry)
Group 1 studies catalysts, which are important substances in the
manufacture of numerous industrial chemicals. Catalysts are also
widely used to eliminate pollutants, such as NOx, or mal-odors fromthe environment. Although catalysts arewidely used, the underlying mechanisms of
their activities can be complicated and varied.
Our major interests lie in conducting boththeoretical and experimental basic researchto acquire a more thorough understanding
Determining the quantity of adsorbentsof these catalytic interactions.
on the surfaces of catalysts

Biology is not constant; it changes with time. Part of that change ismorphogenesis, which we can observe within individuals, and alonger process called phylogeny. However, biology is not just about
describing processes. A major theme of biology is the search for
explanations of why evolution happens and by what mechanisms.
We comprehensively research these facets and strive to understandthe diversity of all living things. The professors here are experts inplant and animal morphology, embryology, taxonomy, andphylogenetic systematics. Thus, the study of phylogenetic systems
is one of the most distinctive research areas of this group. However,
our research is not limited to just these topics; you will findprofessors who investigate plant chromosomes and research thevarious shapes and structures of insects, systems in marine life, andthe phylogenetic relationships and evolution of animals using genetic
information. As we enter the 21st century amid the concerns ofmassive animal extinctions caused by human activities, a proper
understanding of animal diversity is becoming essential. Students
and staff in the Structural Biology Group work intently around theclock to study the diversity of life.

We research primarily three subjects: The first subject is geomagnetism,
which is generated by the Earth s core and is constantly changing in
direction and strength. We use remanent magnetization ( petrified
geomagnetism ) recorded in rocks and sediment, as well as
observations, to research these geomagnetic fluctuations. We are also
investigating plate movement, environmental changes, ore genesis andtheir archaeological applications. The second subject is glaciology.
Our research interests are diverse and range from basic research into
the physical properties and growth of snow and ice crystals to
research into information related to atmospheric and environmental
changes stored in accumulated snow. One particular feature is ourresearch into the snow cover and snowy ravines of the northern
Japanese Alps by making use of the regional characteristics ofToyama. The third area involves oceanic phenomena. We are analyzing
ocean observational data and performing numerical simulations toclarify the structure and variability of the seas around Japan, such as
Toyama Bay and the Japan Sea, to help solve global environmental
problems.

As human activity continues to expand and diversify, the chemical
substances from such activities have caused various environmental
problems such as global warming and water and air pollution which
require urgent attention.
The Environmental and Analytical Chemistry Group takes a chemical
approach in order to clarify and solve environmental problems. For
example, we are developing simple and rapid analytical methods tomeasure harmful components related to environmental pollution in thebiosphere and are using these methods to survey the environmental
water collected from rivers, lakes, seas (e.g., Toyama Bay), and groundwater, as well as bottom sediment, soil, and air. We study the dynamics
of these components, and on the basis of our findings, perform basic
research into the removal and degradation of highly toxic components
in waste water. Furthermore, we are investigating ways to elucidate
the origins of and changes in substances deeply connected to the global
environment, the distribution andcycling of these substances on the
Earth s surface, and the mechanisms
underlying their origin and distribution.
Our indices include rainwater,river water, groundwater, seawater,
gasses, and other components,
trace components, and isotopes.
Collecting water from Toyama Bay●Group 2 (Photochemistry)
Group 2 researches the photophysicalproperties and photochemical reactionsof luminescent transition-metal complexes
with potential applications in organic
light-emitting diodes and solar cells. Basic
research into the photophysics andphotochemistry of these complexes will leadto the development of new photofunctional
compounds.

Measuring photoluminescence lifetimes
at low temperatures●Group 3 (Inorganic/Analytical Chemistry)
Strong laser irradiation can drive molecules in solution to an
extremely hot (nonequilibrium) state so rapidly that the molecules
can exhibit unusual, exotic properties. We
combine methods of solution chemistry(thermodynamics) and photochemistry (lasers)
to explore the structures and reactivities ofsuch solutes, ions, and molecular assemblies,
with a focus on their potential applications
in medicine, therapy, and optical devices.
Synthesizing a complex compound●Group 4 (Coordination Chemistry）
Coordination compounds, being composed of metal ions andorganic/inorganic ligands, have huge diversity and potential. In thislaboratory, coordination compounds with novel structures andproperties are being prepared. Our interests are divided into three areas:
1. emissive coordination complexes;
2. multinuclear complexes that respond toexternal stimuli; and3. functional complexes, inspired by renewableenergy conversion in nature, which exhibit
catalytic activity toward the reduction ofCO2, O2, and N2.
Synthesis of luminescent metal complexes

Synthetic Organic Chemistry Groups●Group 1 (Organic Chemistry)
Group 1 synthesizes numerous compounds with new, hitherto
unknown properties, and then investigates the intricacies of theirstructures. Some of the compounds we have created include
fragrant compounds and emerald crystals.
The nature of such compounds and theirmolecular structure are intimately related.
Currently, we are developing compounds
that are highly responsive to heat, light,
and magnetic fields.

Synthesizing functional compounds●Group 2 (Natural Products Chemistry)
Numerous bioactive organic compounds
occur in nature, many of which possess
complex structures with large numbers ofasymmetrical carbon atoms. Group 2 isdeveloping useful reactions for the synthesis ofsuch complex-structured organic compounds,
and is applying these compounds to thesynthesis of bioactive natural products.

Results of a computer simulation of Yorimawari waves .

Geodynamics Group

Field study in zoology

Laboratory in structural biology

Graduation thesis presentation

Regulatory Biology GroupWe humans, as well as many plants and animals, come from one
fertilized egg and grow into multicellular organisms with a defined
shape or form. The cells that make up an individual plant or animal
differentiate into various types and play specific roles. We research,from various angles, how these diverse cells cooperate and cometogether to create an individual organism. Our professors of botany
work to elucidate the mechanism of plant growth at the cellular andgenetic levels; the regulatory mechanism of gene expression related
to photosynthesis and fatty acid synthesis; and the genes related tothe differentiation of leaves, roots, and other organs. The professorsof zoology use morphological, physiological, and molecular biologicalmethods to research various control mechanisms related toenvironmental conditions such as light, internal clock and sleep
control mechanisms, various regulatory mechanisms related towater and electrolyte metabolism, and the role of neuropeptides inhormonal behavior. Here in the 21st century̶the age of life sciences
̶we need to better understand various biological phenomena. Toward
this end, we, together with our students, are all actively engaged in
educational and research activities.

Synthesizing natural products●Group 3 (Biofunctional Chemistry)
RNAs play versatile roles in biological systems because they not only
serve as a genetic material but also act as functional molecules.
Group 3 studies the molecular basis ofnaturally occurring RNAs with catalytic andreceptor functions. Another interest of ourgroup lies in the artificial generation ofRNAs with desirable functions through 3D structures of RNAs with catalytic
and receptor functions
rational and evolutional approaches.

Examining snow cover on Tateyama s Murodo Plateau.

Laboratory in regulatory biology

Field studies in marine biology

Introductory seminar on biology

From deep within the Earth to the skies above us, we are studying
ongoing dynamic phenomena of our planet. For understanding ofearthquakes and plate motions, we are conducting surveys of active
faults, GPS observations of crustal movements, and experimental
studies on physical properties of rocks. We are also conducting marine
observations, such as coastal gravity measurements utilizing airplanes
and ships, and seabed surveys by submersible vehicles. Using global
meteorological observation networks and climate models, we are
exploring the mechanisms behind changes in monsoon circulations andextraordinary weather phenomena. We are also working to unlock the
global warming problem using cloud and aerosol observations.

Experimental studies with high pressure
apparatuses in a Geodynamics laboratory.

Measurements of aerosol and cloud opticalproperties at the Mt. Tateyama.

Geological Science GroupWe research the evolution of the interior and surface environments ofthe Earth (Earth history) using clues in the rocks, minerals, strata, andfossils on the Earth s surface. We can observe on the Earth s surface
fragments of mantle and a 4-billion-year-old continent; some rocks
even carry information related to the Earth s core. By studying strata
and fossils, we can reconstruct plate movements and environmental
and biospherical changes of the past. Furthermore, past volcanic
ejecta hold the key to predicting future eruptions. Attaching great
importance to fieldwork, we aim to cultivate the ability of students tocollect voluminous data and ideas from the outdoors. The ability to
conduct proper fieldwork cannot be cultivated in physics, chemistry,or other disciplinary fields, and we hope it will greatly help you in yourfuture career.

Geological survey into the summit crater of Nantai Volcano.

A scene from a geological survey in Mongolia.

River flow measurement

Determination of anionic surfactants

Environmental Biology GroupThe first life is believed to have appeared over a geologically brief
period some 3.5 billion years ago. Since then, organisms have had
an enormous effect on the formation of the Earth s environment;
however, more to the point, the organisms themselves have adapted
to their environment and evolved an exquisite system for living.
The Environmental Biology Group conducts a broad rangeof research on the mechanisms
underlying biofunctions, from thecellular level to the ecosystemlevel, to deepen our understandingof interactions between organisms
and the environment. Examples ofour research include the following:
1. Elucidation of tolerance mechanisms Dissection of a wild animal (Raccoon Dog)
to environmental stress in higher
plants.
2. Methods of evaluating and reclaiming
polluted water in the environment
using microorganisms.
3. The relationship between plants
and insect pollinators.
4. The effects of global environmental Plant survey on Satoyamachanges on alpine vegetation in
the Tateyama Mountains.
We are also making strides in our
research into the conservation ofwild organisms, such as mammals
and parasites.
Field trip to the Tateyama Mountains

Physics
Laboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p s

Solid-State Physics Group●Solid-State Physics Research GroupThe work of our group is centered on the physics of intermetallic
compounds of rare-earth and actinide elements. We use a variety ofsample growth techniques to prepare high-quality single crystals,
and are able to measure electrical resistivity, magnetization, specificheat, thermal expansion, and thermoelectric power at low
temperatures, in high magnetic fields, and under high pressures. Ourcurrent research focuses on (1) remarkable magnetically orderedstates, (2) anomalous behavior in the vicinity of a quantum critical point,(3) exotic superconductivity, and(4) multipolar ordering in strongly
correlated -electron systems.
Our ultimate goal is to discover
new materials with novel physicalproperties and to contribute to
the welfare of humanity throughPreparation of rare-earth compounds in an arc furnace
their practical application.
●Crystal Physics Research GroupAll mater is made of atoms. The differences in their arrangements
and interatomic bonds give matter its various fascinating properties.
We analyze atomic-level structures and measure the various
properties of condensed matter, and investigate the relationships
between the microscopic structuresand properties of matter. We use
X-rays and synchrotron radiation in
our structural analyses and measureelectrical and optical properties
under various conditions. Come
explore the world of nano-space
A graduate student demonstrating the use ofwith us!
vacuum deposition equipment

Quantum Physics Group●Theoretical Physics Research GroupIn what form does ultimate matter exist, and how does it react? Whattheories are needed to describe the world of elementary particles?
How did the universe come into existence, and how will it continue
to expand?
We engage these and similar questions head-on. We conduct theoreticalresearch to investigate the deepest
mysteries of nature by using the fullpower of our brains and computers.
We use observations based on keen
physical intuition in conjunction
with advanced mathematics andcalculations performed on computers.

For all those who wish to bea part of Faculty of Science
Our Faculty of Science is a prestigious institution where students
learn nobility, culture, and academics. They receive a well-roundededucation through interactions with professors and friends, andcultivate intellectual, moral, and applied skills that they will needlater in life.
Our faculty comprises six departments: Mathematics, Physics,
Chemistry, Biology, Earth Sciences, and Environmental Biology
and Chemistry. The professors, undergraduates, and graduates ineach department work together in various research fields toelucidate the mechanisms of nature. We also conduct research
into the application of the principles and laws of nature, as wellas into local and global environmental problems. The ability ofscience to add to the vast wealth of our knowledge is truly
fascinating and creates the foundation for today s technology.
Our faculty develops students into skilled professionals who canapply what they have learned to identify and solve problems witha broad field of view. Besides our advanced specialized subjects,
our faculty offers fundamental subjects that span all scientificfields. Students can also take specialized courses in otherdepartments. Foreign professors conduct workshops on scientificEnglish and foreign languages as well as overseas foreign
language study programs to give students an advantage on theinternational stage. Our faculty places great emphasis on smallclass sizes and interactive education, providing extensive
one-on-one guidance for graduate thesis research̶the culminationof four years. We are working tirelessly toward education reform, withevery professor here striving to produce active scientific professionals.

We have completed the expansion and renovation of the facultybuildings, thereby improving our ability to provide a fulfilling
education. We truly hope that you enjoy studying science here
and perfect your scientific skills. We are looking forward towelcoming you to our faculty.

ToyamaPrefecture

A spectral measurement experiment using microwaves

Physics

Chemistry

Our faculty is located in the midst of Toyama s spectacularnature, a 4000m stretch from the Tateyama Mountains toToyama Bay. Our location is ideal for studying science.

A physics seminar●Microwave and Laser Research GroupWe use electromagnetic waves̶from microwaves to laser light̶toresearch physical phenomena of the microscopic world, including
molecules in a gaseous state and atomic and molecular ionstrapped in enclosed spaces. In particular, we are closely
investigating molecular structures and interactions between atoms
and molecules and how they absorb and emit light.
This knowledge of atoms, molecules,
and light will not only deepen our
understanding of matter, but will also
be useful in our search to understandwhat molecules exist, and in whatstate, in the universe tens of
thousands of light years away.

Mathematics

Biology
Earth
Sciences

Environmental
Biology andChemistry

Faculty of Science, University of Toyama

For more details click here.
http://www.sci.u-toyama.ac.jp/

Mathematics
Laboratory

R e s e a r c h

g r o u p sMathematical Analysis GroupWe teach and research topics related to pure mathematics ingeometry, algebra, and analysis. Our goal is to provide students asmall taste of the world of pure mathematics, and to allow them toexperience the beauty of abstract mathematics and learn how tocreate sound theories.
Our research topics include the following:(１) Geometry, to explore the nature of spatial figures, and manifolds
that generalize the concepts of curved lines and surfaces. (Arecomputers useful in sharpening our mathematical way ofviewing abstract geometrical structures?)(２) Complex function theory, to explore the nature of complex
functions (functions that assign to each complex number anotherone). (Chaos, and fractals, with their extravagant shapes, also
fall under this theory.)(３) Number theory, to encode information into binary data, toverify transmitted data, and to authenticate Web transactions.
,, and(４) Algebra, to explore the nature offor abstractly handling addition, multiplication, and othercalculations. (There is a subtle beauty to the theories behind
this ancient field.)

A view of a class using a blackboard

Library of Mathematics

Mathematical Science and Informatics Group
The teachers in this group develop mathematical analyses andmethods for mathematical phenomena. Our goal is to use computers
to master the analysis of mathematical phenomena using mathematicalmethods.
Our research topics include the following:(１) Differential equation theory, to investigate the nature of differential
equation analysis. ( Differential equation is a mathematical term
used to describe various phenomena.)(２) Modeling of mathematical phenomena and mathematical andnumerical analysis of their model equations. (More complex
phenomena for which model equations have only been solved
numerically are also dealt with.)(３) Probability theory, to analyze phenomena governed by chance.
(Probability theory has contributed greatly to the advancementof financial theories.)(４) Coding theory using algebraic methods. (Coding theory is
critical in internet communications and will play a key role in its
further development.)(５) Fusing mathematics and systems engineering to open new
possibilities in mathematics.

Faculty of Science, University of Toyama
3190 Gofuku, Toyama 930-8555, JAPAN
Phone: +81-76-445-6546
E-mail: koho2013@sci.u-toyama.ac.jp
URL: http://www.sci.u-toyama.ac.jp/

A class using computers

A research presentation