La boratory Gu ide
School of Materials Science

Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

FUJIMOTO Lab.

E-mail：Professor：FUJIMOTO Kenzo kenzo＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Nucleic acids chemistry, chemical biology［Keywords］Nucleic acid drug, Photochemical genome editing,organic synthesis, genetic diagnosis

Development of nucleic acids drug
based on creation of designed molecules
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
In our laboratory, "Understanding the fundamental principles of science, by creating and designed original molecules combined with arational and precise approach having special physical properties” is the main challenge. We develop new methods to further challenge
various domains of science and welcome people with creative ideas to tackle these challenges from different scientific backgrounds.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
In this laboratory, we try to understand and develop natural/biological phenomena through the study of journal papers, study groups,
scientific experimentations, research presentations, and other unique and innovative approaches. Initiatives taken to support students togrow their intellectual toughness:◦ Laboratory seminar by eminent professors working in the major fields of science◦ Participation in technical schools held in Tokyo and Osaka◦ Academic conferences (domestic and international)◦ Support for publishing in international scientific journals◦ Active participation in venture laboratories◦ Joint seminar and exchange with collaborative research companies【Job category of graduates】Employment opportunities: University faculty, chemical industry, pharmaceutical companies, mechanicalcompanies, electrical companies, research scientist, medical equipment companies, food industry etc.
Focusing on the programmability of DNA molecules, basic elements (AND,OR, NOT, etc.) can be implemented using DNA nanotechnology. To further
realize advanced information processing, the calculation mechanism (statustransition) for determining the next output based on the past inputs andthe current input in the cellular machine it is essential to realize the chemical reaction in vitro to calibrate the circuit.
There has been no study on these kinds of circuits in the literature.
In Fujimoto laboratory, the original [2 + 2] DNA photo-ligation reaction
through photo cyclization reaction binds two DNA molecules using a template DNA and utilize the fact that this system use simple basic reaction elements (AND, OR, NOT, etc.) to successfully organize and construct a fulladder circuit for calculation of binary digits through DNA molecules. These
outcomes beautifully integrate the biochemistry with information technology to further lead to the development of DNA molecular robots. This has
been highly appreciated as the fundamental research to create a backbone
for further interdisciplinary research areas such as molecular robotics.

Research outline
Modern genetic engineering technology is currently based on enzymes
for the in vivo genetic manipulations. Moreover, the micro-robotics is also
limited by the enzymes. In Fujimoto Lab, we use photo-responsive artificial
nucleic acid to tackle the problem of genetic engineering with high specificity and precision through organic chemical approach coupled with photo-chemistry. We have developed a novel approach to manipulate the DNA
or RNA using light instead of enzymes.
This research falls under inter-disciplinary research combining molecular biology, organic chemistry, information science, cell biology, and other fields.
We are developing a strong and industrially viable approach for applications
such as gene manipulation and analysis.
Upon UV radiation, DNA can get damaged by the formation of a pyrimidine
dimer in the DNA strand. This [2+2] photo-cyclization reaction can be
exploited using a photo-active vinyl group. To manipulate the nucleic acidusing light, we require an artificial photo-reactive nucleobase incorporated
in the DNA strand using synthetic organic chemical methods.
In our lab, we synthesize these photo-active DNA probes and incorporate
them into the DNA strand to accomplish the branching of DNA which isotherwise not possible in the naturally occurring DNA strands. We havesuccessfully created a complex DNA origami structure using thephoto-chemical approach. Also, we can utilize this photo-chemical approach in the DNA chip to analyze human genome at the single base levelwith an accuracy 100 times higher than the conventional methods.
These phenomena are successful due to a particular artificial photo-active
nucleobase called cyanovinylcarbazole (cnvK) which can cross-link to nucleic acid in a matter of few seconds upon light radiation. Using cnvK, ultrafast plasmid manipulation, cytosine to uracil conversion, gene repair, andgenetic engineering has been achieved. It is also expected to be utilized forthe ultrafast genetic analysis on a microchip for future medical technology
applications.

Teaching policy

Key publications
1. T. Sakamoto, Z. Qiu, M. Inagaki. K, Fujimoto, Simultaneous aminoacid analysis based on 19F NMR using modified OPA-derivatization
method, Anal. Chem., 92, 1669-1673 (2020)
2. K. Fujimoto, H. Yang, S. Nakamura, Strong inhibitory effects ofanti-sense probes on gene expression through ultrafast RNA
photo-cross-linking, Chem. Asian. J., 14, 1912-1916 (2019)
3. K. Fujimoto, S. Sasago, J. Mihara, DNA photo-cross-linking using pyranocarbazole and visible light, Org. Lett., 20, 2802-2805(2018)

Equipment
Automatic DNA/RNA synthesizer, Laser confocal microscope,
HPLC/UPLC, Microplate reader, Fluorescence spectrophotometer,
UV-LED, Atomic force microscopy, Biacore, etc［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/fujimoto/fujimotohp/

The fundamental of our research lies in the precise molecular design related to DNA and the rational organic synthesis technique based on it. As each student tackles the original research theme, we cultivate fundamental synthesis technology, analyticaltechnology and scientific viewpoint to capture the essence of research. On top of that, the students experience collaborative
research with chemical companies, medical device manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies and let them acknowledge researchers’ ways to contribute to society. In addition, we aim to cultivate autonomous researchers by utilizing laboratory-specificprograms (laboratory seminars, joint seminars, technical schools, etc.).
1

GOTOH Lab.

E-mail：Professor：GOTOH Kazuma kgotoh@jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Physical chemistry, Inorganic material chemistry［Keywords］Nuclear magnetic resonance, Carbon materials, Lithium ion
batteries, Sodium ion batteries, in situ, operando analysis

Nanospace Chemistry– Development of observation technology and controlling nanostructure –Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Basic knowledge of physical chemistry and inorganic chemistry is preferred. Motivation for learning basic skills and exploring novel phenomenon
is required.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
You will be engaged in experiments of material preparation, measurements using analytical equipment, and discussion about the experimentallyobtained results. Thereby, you will learn skills about synthesis of inorganic materials, testing batteries, and analyses of materials using analyticalmethods such as solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (SSNMR). Furthermore, students will be trained through discussion to make great
insights necessary to understand scientific phenomena: this capability for insight is most important for researchers and engineers.
【Job category of graduates】Researcher and engineer in manufacturing (chemistry, material, automobile, battery) or at research institutes
pounds (GICs) are anticipated for several applications such as
electrochemical devices, catalysts, superconducting materials, andprecursors of thin film materials. We are studying the syntheses
and properties of new GICs and layered materials intercalating
alkali metal cations (Li+, Na+, or K+) and several organic molecules,
which are anticipated for use as electrode materials or catalysts.
The structures and dynamics of intercalant molecules are investigated using
X-ray diffraction and SSNMR to elucidate the interaction between intercalants and host materials. These analyses
are crucially important for understanding the intercalation chemistry of newmaterials and the diffusion properties of Reprinted from K.Gotoh et al.,J. Phys. Chem C (2016).
alkali metals in 2D layers.

Research outline
Our group emphasizes understanding of microscopic and mesoscopic structures and circumstances in nanospace of porous andlayered materials such as carbon and inorganic compounds. The
states and behaviors of molecules and ions in the nanospace areinvestigated using several analytical methods, especially solid state
nuclear magnetic resonance (SSNMR). Because understanding ofthese technologies is essential for revealing the mechanisms of devices using the materials such as secondary batteries, we prospectively apply our technology to the development of such materials.

"Reaction mechanism of lithium and sodium in electrodematerials for next generation secondary batteries"

Lithium ion batteries (LIBs) are commonly used as indispensableenergy storage systems for consumer electronics and vehicles.
Sodium insertion materials have also attracted much attention
for use in sodium ion batteries (NIBs), which are anticipated as afavorable alternative to LIBs because of their abundant resources
and comparable electrode potential to that of LIBs. For LIB and
NIB development, elucidating the statesof the lithium and sodium ions and thecharging–discharging mechanism of
the electrodes is indispensable. We areinvestigating the states of lithium andsodium in several electrode materials
such as hard carbon, phosphorous, andlayered 2D materials using 7Li and 23NaSSNMR (including in situ and operando
measurements) to develop next-generation secondary batteries. Our researchis aimed at developing methods to analyze the structures of electrodes and Reprinted from 1) K.Gotoh etthe states of lithium and sodium in bat- al., Carbon (2014). (upper),teries, and to reveal lithium and sodium and 2) publication 1. (lower).
reaction mechanisms in electrode materials.

Key publications
1. K. Gotoh*, T. Yamakami, I. Nishimura, H. Kometani, H. Ando, K.
Hashi, T. Shimizu and H. Ishida, Mechanisms for overcharging ofcarbon electrodes in lithium-ion/sodium-ion batteries analysedby operando solid-state NMR. J. Mater. Chem. A 8, 14472 (2020).
2. R. Morita, K. Gotoh*, K. Kubota, S. Komaba, K. Hashi, T. Shimizu
and H. Ishida, Correlation of carbonization condition with metallic
property of sodium clusters formed in hard carbon studied using
23
Na nuclear magnetic resonance. Carbon 145, 712 (2019).
3. R. Morita, K. Gotoh*, M. Fukunishi, K. Kubota, S. Komaba, T. Yumura, N. Nishimura, K. Deguchi, S. Ohki, T. Shimizu and H. Ishida,
Combination of solid state NMR and DFT calculation to elucidate
the state of sodium in hard carbon electrodes. J. Mater. Chem. A
4, 13183 (2016).

Equipment
Bruker AVANCE III 500 MHz-NMR (with SSNMR system containing
in situ equipment)
X-ray diffractometer, X-ray photoelectron spectroscope, Thermal analyzer, Electron microscope, Gas adsorption analyzer, Electrochemicalmeasurement devices, Cell assembly equipment (glovebox, etc.)"Intercalation chemistry of inorganic layered compounds"

Inorganic layered materials such as graphite intercalated com-

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/nmcenter/labs/gotoh-www/home-en

I hope students will acquire both fundamental background as members of society and high expertise as specialists of physicaland inorganic chemistry.
Seminars and group meetings in laboratories are held regularly. Each student should make a plan and have a schedule of theirown experiments. Participating in collaborative research with other groups or companies is preferred for obtaining a wide scopefor research.

2

HOHSAKA Lab.

E-mail：Professor：HOHSAKA Takahiro hohsaka＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Genetic engineering, Protein chemistry［Keywords］Genetic code expansion, Nonnatural amino acid, Artificial
protein, Cell-free translation, Fluorescence analysis

Synthesis of artificial proteins by combining
biological and chemical techniques
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Students should be interested in proteins and genes. Basic knowledge and experimental skills on biological chemistry and organic chemistry
are required, but students will learn them after entering JAIST.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Students can learn professional knowledge and experimental techniques on genetic engineering, protein synthesis, organic synthesis,
fluorescence analysis, etc. Through research activities, students can learn a series of research processes ranging from planning ofexperiments, investigation of related researches, acquisition and analysis of experimental data, summary of research results, andpresentation of achievements. These abilities are indispensable as both researchers and engineers.

【Job category of graduates】Chemical or biological companies, research institutes

Research outline
Our aim is to create new artificial proteins by combining biochemical
techniques such as genetic engineering and protein synthesis withchemical methods such as organic synthesis. Specifically, we are pursuing the following research themes. We are also conducting research
to make practical use of our achievements with companies.

Fig. 1 Incorporation of nonnatural amino acids into proteins by using four-base codon.

1. Introduction of nonnatural amino acids into proteins byexpansion of the genetic code

Proteins are made from amino acids according to the genetic code of
DNA and show various biological functions by forming three-dimensional
structures. However, only 20 types of amino acids are used in nature
for protein biosynthesis. Beyond this limitation, we have succeeded indeveloping a new technology that can introduce artificially synthesized
nonnatural amino acids into specific positions of proteins in response
to expanded genetic code such as four-base codons (Fig.1).

Fig. 2 Antibody-based fluorescence sensor.

Key publications
1. Double-fluorescent-labeled single-chain antibodies showing
antigen-dependent fluorescence ratio change, K. Yoshikoshi, T.
Watanabe, T. Hohsaka, Bull. Chem. Soc. Jpn., 2016, 89, 573-580.
2. Antibody-based fluorescent and fluorescent ratiometric indicatorsfor detection of phosphotyrosine, K. P. Huynh Nhat, T. Watanabe,
K. Yoshikoshi, T. Hohsaka, J. Biosci. Bioeng., 2016, 122, 146-154.
3. “Quenchbodies”: Quench-based antibody probes that show
antigen-dependent fluorescence. R. Abe, H. Ohashi, I. Iijima, M.
Ihara, H. Takagi, T. Hohsaka, H. Ueda, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2011,
133, 17386-17394.

2. Design and synthesis of artificial proteins

By using the above technology, we are working on design and functionof artificial proteins with new functions. For example, protein sensors
that can detect target molecules by fluorescence have been generated
by introducing fluorescent nonnatural amino acids into ligand-binding
proteins and antibodies (Fig.2). We are also tried synthesizing new
protein or peptide drugs by utilizing the nonnatural amino acid incorporation technique. Parts of these studies are being in progress throughcollaboration with companies.

3. Development of new biotechnologies using potential oforganisms

Equipment

It can be said that the nonnatural amino acid incorporation technique
is derived from the potential function of organisms. We are trying todevelop another biotechnology that can synthesize useful artificial proteins by utilizing new potential of organisms.

DNA analysis (DNA sequencer, real-time PCR, etc.), Fluorescenceanalysis (Fluorescence spectrometer, Fluorescence scanner, Fluorescence microscope, etc.), Mass spectrometer, Analytical andpreparative HPLCs, etc.

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/hohsaka/

Our goal is not only to obtain new knowledge from experiments but also to learn research process for artificial proteins. Specifically, we will train the ability to perform research such as planning the experiment, interpreting the result, solving the problem,
feedback to the next experimental plan, etc. through repeated trial and error experiments. We regularly have research meetingsfor checking research status and providing guidance. We also have the opportunity to present the research results at academic
conferences.

3

KURISAWA Lab.

E-mail：Professor：KURISAWA Motoichi kurisawa@jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Biomaterials, drug delivery systems (DDS), nanomedicine, regenerative medicine［Keywords］Biodegradable polymers, nanoparticles, green tea catechin, injectablegel system, sustained drug release, drug targeting, cell therapy

Enhancing Healing
Power with Functional Biomaterials
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
If you have basic knowledge of polymer chemistry, you can start your research without any problems. Still, we will give you profound guidance to play an active rolein my laboratory, even if you do not have special knowledge and abilities before enrollment. In short, you can grow as much as you want, depending on your attitude
toward daily research activities. To that end, I think it is crucial to create a laboratory where the spirit of mutual prosperity can be shared with research staff and students.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
We design, synthesize, and characterize nanoparticles and gels and evaluate whether or not the desired function is sufficient through cell
experiments and animal studies. By studying a wide range of fields, you will acquire the basics of various equipments and experimental
methods. By the time you complete an animal experiment, you will develop the ability to make detailed experiment plans, discussions, andpresentations. It is vital to strive to achieve the research objectives, but we will teach you to acquire the ability to evaluate the experimental
results fairly.
【Job category of graduates】University faculty, postdoctoral fellow, patent examiner, Chemical/pharmaceutical industry[Injectable hydrogel system for biomedical applications]

Research outline

We have developed the simple and biocompatible in situ gel-forming system composed of biodegradable polymer-phenol conjugates using a peroxidase-catalysed oxidation reaction (Fig. 2). This
gel-forming system allows the formation of hydrogels without any
inflammation and redundant reactions with bioactive agents loadedin the hydrogels. In view of the injectable enzymatically crosslinked
hydrogel system’s promising properties, our hydrogel is expected to
be an important tool in the field ofbiomaterial science and medicine.
The research project involves controlled protein release from hydrogels, immuno-cancer therapy and
Fig.2. Injectable hydrogel system
2/3D cell culture and differentiation
for biomedical applications
control for cell therapy.

Our laboratory will develop functional biomaterials that can treat
intractable diseases based on polymer science, biomaterials, drugdelivery system (DDS) and regenerative medicine. In recent years,
advanced medical treatments, including gene and cell therapy, havebeen implemented, and new treatment methods have been pioneered for diseases that have been considered incurable. Researchon biomaterials that support such advanced medical treatment is
expected to play an increasingly important role in the developmentof medical technology that will enable the treatment of intractablediseases in the future. We are developing research collaboration
with overseas research institutes such as Singapore, Korea and theUnited States and promote research and development aimed atclinical application and industrialization.

[Green tea catechin-based nanoparticles as DDS]

We have pioneered the design of nanoparticles comprised of green
tea catechin derivatives for anticancer drug delivery. The green tea
catechin has been shown to possess anticancer effects. The green
tea catechin-based nanoparticle stably encapsulated anticancer
proteins and achieved tumor-selective delivery, dramatically increasing anticancer efficacy from the combinational effects of thecarrier and protein drugs, as compared to the drug alone (Fig. 1).
The high-performance drug carrier system of the nanoparticle
is considered to enable a more
effective and safer strategy
for cancer therapy, suggestinga scope for an improved nano-medicine formulation. We
will further develop the drug
carrier system with green tea
catechin derivatives to tackle
 reen tea catechinbased nanoparticle
intractable diseases, including Fig.1. G
for disease treatment
cancer and other diseases.

Key publications
1. N. Yongvongsoontorn, et al. Carrier-enhanced anticancer efficacy
of sunitinib-loaded green tea-based micellar nanocomplex beyond tumor-targeted delivery, ACS Nano 13, 7591-7602 (2019).
2. K. Liang, et al. Highly augmented drug loading and stability of
micellar nanocomplexes comprised of doxorubicin and poly(ethylene glycol)-green tea catechin conjugate for cancer therapy,
Adv. Mater. 30, 1706963 (2018).
3. J. E. Chung et al. Self-assembled nanocomplexes comprisinggreen tea catechin derivatives and protein drugs for cancer therapy, Nature Nanotechnol. 9, 907-912 (2014).

Equipment
UV-visible spectroscopy, NMR, Dynamic light scattering, HPLC,
Rheometer, Scanning electron microscope, Cell culture equipment,
Animal research equipment

Teaching policy
Our motto is to operate the laboratory in a style that is close to the students. We will strive to improve students' research abilities.
When conducting applied research, we will thoroughly discuss the possibility of social contribution with students and provide an
opportunity for students to develop their abilities to play an active role as leaders in society. We will expand students' potential byunderstanding their interests, abilities and individuality. While always being aware of the world's most advanced research, our laboratory is also on the stage, creating an atmosphere where students are intensely conscious of wanting to disseminate to the world.

4

MAENOSONO Lab.

E-mail：Professor：MAENOSONO Shinya shinya＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Nanomaterials Chemistry; Colloid Chemistry［Keywords］quantum confinement effect; localized surface plasmon resonance;
superparamagnetism; energy harvesting; nanomedicine; sensing

Nanoparticle Science and Technology
From Synthesis to Applications
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Basic academic skills, communication ability, broad intellectual curiosity, flexible thinking

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Nanoparticles have intermediate properties between atoms (molecules) and bulk crystals. We explore the frontiers of synthesis, higherorder structuring, and functionalization of nanoparticles. Our research in JAIST has focused on two main areas of interest in the field ofmaterials chemistry and nanotechnology. The first area involved wet chemical synthesis of semiconductor nanoparticles with controlled size,
shape and composition for energy conversion device applications. The second area has focused on the synthesis and biological application
development of monometallic and alloyed multimetallic nanoparticles.
【Job category of graduates】Industry (chemical industries, precision equipment manufacturers, electronics companies, glass andceramics companies, textile industries, etc.) and academic research institutes (universities, national institutes, etc.)

Research outline
1. Thermoelectric nanoparticles

Thermoelectric materials have historically been an intriguing topic of materials science.
In the global drive to develop sustainable energy, thermoelectric energy storage andgeneration technologies have attracted a tremendous interest. For practical applications,the dimensionless figure of merit, ZT=S2σ T/ κ (S: Seebeck coefficient, σ : electricalconductivity, κ : thermal conductivity, T: temperature) is required to be higher than ca. 2.
Unfortunately, the existing thermoelectric materials have much lower ZT value because of
the interdependence of σ and κ which defines the limitation in the ZT value. It has been
widely recognized that the nanostructured thermoelectric materials with well-defined nanoscale grain boundaries can have reduced κ without much decrease in σ . With this inmind, we are working on synthesis of thermoelectric nanoparticles as promising building
blocks for high-ZT nanostructured thermoelectric materials.

Key publications

2. Metal nanoparticles

Metal nanoparticles have long been utilized for various types of chemical and/or biologicalsensing applications. At the same time, much of the knowledge being gained for manipulating nanoparticle structure or composition has focused on multimetallic nanoparticles.
Such systems can display multiple properties arising from the individual components,
but it is the observation of synergistic phenomena that is the most intriguing. By taking
advantage of such synergistic phenomena, one can enhance the sensing properties whenthese multimetallic nanoparticles are used as sensing probes. We focus on the synthesisof novel multimetallic heterostructured nanoparticles and their applications including, but
not limited to, biosensing probes, chemical sensors, and nanocatalysts.

1. T. S. Le, M. Takahashi, N. Isozumi, A. Miyazato, Y. Hiratsuka, K.
Matsumura, T. Taguchi, and S. Maenosono, “Quick and Mild
Isolation of Intact Lysosomes Using Magnetic-Plasmonic Hybrid Nanoparticles”, ACS Nano 16 (2022) 885
2. J. Hao, B. Liu, S. Maenosono, and J. Yang, “One-Pot Synthesis of Au-M@SiO2 (M = Rh, Pd, Ir, Pt) Core-Shell Nanoparticles as Highly Efficient Catalysts for the Reduction of 4-Nitrophenol”, Sci. Rep. 12 (2022) 7615
3. T. S. Le, S. He, M. Takahashi, Y. Enomoto, Y. Matsumura, and
S. Maenosono, “Enhancing the Sensitivity of Lateral Flow
Immunoassay by Magnetic Enrichment Using Multifunctional
Nanocomposite Probes”, Langmuir 37 (2021) 6566

3. Magnetic nanoparticles

Magnetic nanoparticles show great potential for various bio-medical applications fromdiagnosis to therapy. Multifunctional heterostructured magnetic nanoparticles are quite
interesting materials from fundamental and practical point of view. This class of hybrid
magnetic nanoparticles include magnetic-fluorescent and magnetic-plasmonic bifunctional nanoparticles. Those bifunctional nanoparticles can offer new opportunities forbiomedical applications. In our research, we synthesize magnetic nanoparticles, and then
their surfaces are coated with semiconductor or plasmonic materials. For example, wecreated FePt@CdSe core@shell bifunctional nanoparticles which have magnetic andfluorescent properties stemming from FePt core and CdSe shell, respectively. In anothercase, we have synthesized Ag@FeCo@Ag double-shell bifunctional nanoparticles which
combine magnetic and plasmonic properties. Those bifunctional nanoparticles can beused in wide range of biomedical applications.

Equipment
TEM, STEM, XRD, XPS, NMR, ICP-OES, SQUID, PPMS, DLS, UVVis, TGA, Raman, etc.

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/~shinya/

For students who go on to work in industry soon after graduation, I will cultivate a comprehensive ability and give overall guidance to enable them to smoothly receive job offers. For students who want to pursue a PhD, I will provide a leading-edge andinternational research environment to enable them to find a career in academia.

5MATSUMI Lab.

E-mail：Professor：MATSUMI Noriyoshi matsumi＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Creation of Energy Related Materials［Keywords］Lithium ion secondary batteries, Metal-air batteries, Electrocatalysis (oxygen reduction, photoelectrochemical water splitting), Solid polymer electrolytes, Ionic liquids, Organoboron compounds/materials

From Heteroatom Chemistry to
Future Energy
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Aspiration, Intellectual Curiosity, Optimistic Character, Human skills to work in good harmony with other students/members If you havebackground in Organic Chemistry/Polymer Chemistry/Electrochemistry, it will be advantageous (not mandatory)

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Skills to design, synthesize and characterize materials. Skills to objectively analyze the data and understand their significance properly.
Skills to arrange short term/long term research schedule. Skills to give presentation, to discuss about research data. Skills to communicate
with other laboratory members in English. More technically, students can acquire skills on preparation of organic compounds under inert
atmosphere, characterization of the prepared compounds by NMR etc., evaluation of ionic conductivity by impedance measurements,
evaluation of charge-discharge characteristics of Li ion battery cells, photo-electrochemical evaluation of electrocatalysts etc.
【Job category of graduates】Chemical companies, Polymer related companies, Printing companies, Mechanical companies etc.
binders which shows
remarkably reduced
internal resistance after
electrochemical cycles.
This resulted in fairly
improved discharging
capacity of battery cells
when compared withthe case of PVDF binder.

Research outline
1. Organic-inorganic hybrid electrolytes for battery safety

Design of non-flammable electrolytes are highly important classof materials for battery safety. By in-situ sol-gel condensationof alkoxysilane/alkoxyborane monomers in the presence of low
viscous ionic liquids, we designed highly conductive ion-gel
electrolytes which also exhibit thermal stability till 400℃ . Theseelectrolytes were used for fabrication of Li ion secondary battery
cells, and the obtained cells showed reversible and satisfactory
charge-discharge characteristics.

Organic-inorganic hybrid non-flammable electrolytes

2. Single ion conductive and electrochemically stable organoboron electrolytes

Key publications

Ordinary electrolytes generally show very limited selectivity forlithium ion transport (lithium transference number). In order toenhance the lithium transference number, addition of Lewis acidicorganoboron compounds to electrolytes is a valuable approach.
Some classes of ionic liquids were found to be miscible with organoboron compounds, and binary mixture of ionic liquids/organoboron compounds were designed. In the presence of lithium salts,
these system showed maximum lithium transference number ofgreater than 0.9, which is extraordinary high among liquid electrolytes. Moreover, these systems were also found to show high electrochemical stability. When these electrolytes are employed for Li
ion secondary battery cell (Li/electrolyte/Si), maximum discharging
capacity close to 3000 mAhg-1 was observed.

1. "Extreme fast charging capability in graphite anode via lithium borate type bio-based polymer as aqueous polyelectrolyte binder",A. Pradhan, R. Badam, R. Miyairi, N. Takamori, N. Matsumi, ACS
Materials Lett., 5 (2023) 413-420.
2. "Enabling ultrafast charging in graphite anodes using BIAN-based
conjugated polymer/lithium polyacrylate as a binder", SN. Mishra,
S. Punyasloka, BS. Mantripragada, A. Pradhan, N. Matsumi. ACS
Appl Ener Mater., 6 (2023) 11954-11962.
3. "Charge–discharge behavior of lithium-ion batteries using a polymer electrolyte bearing high-density functional groups" A. Patra,
N. Matsumi. ACS Appl Ener Mater., 6 (2023) 11973-11982.

3. Binder materials for high performance Li ion secondary
batteries

Equipment

In Li ion secondary batteries, PVDF have been widely employed
as a binder material. However, PVDF is insulating in nature andfairly increasing the internal resistance of battery cells. We aredesigning electrochemically self-dopable conjugated polymer

Teaching policy

Vacuum glove box, Impedance analyzer, Potentiogalvanostat, Cyclic voltammetry, Solar simulator, Gel permeation chromatography,
Dynamic scanning calorimetry, Viscometer, Fluorescence spectrometer［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/matsumi/english/index.html

On the basis of organic synthesis, we are working on challenging research fields of high social demands such as Li ion secondary
battery, electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (fuel cell/metal-air batteries) and photo-electrochemical water splitting.
We welcome students of various backgrounds such as organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, electrochemistry, polymer chemistry, analytical chemistry, photo chemistry, device oriented materials engineering etc.

6

MATSUMURA Lab.

E-mail：Professor：MATSUMURA Kazuaki mkazuaki＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Polymer Biomaterials.
［Keywords］Polyampholytes, Zwitterionic polymers, Drug delivery
system, Tissue Engineering, Hydrogels, Cryopreservation

Functional polymeric biomaterials forcontrolling the functions of living systems
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Basic knowledge of chemistry is necessary for chemistry-based development of biomaterials that will be used in living organisms. This alsoentails knowledge of biology and medical science. The multidisciplinary approach must include chemistry and polymer chemistry.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Biomaterials research is an interdisciplinary activity that includes chemistry, biology, medicine, and physics. By learning about the highly
controlled function of living organisms and continuing research aimed at creating materials to correct dysfunctional behaviors, a wide rangeof academic disciplines is covered. These include biology, medicine, physics, and chemistry.
Research on biomaterials is a need-oriented research whose purpose is clear, so it is possible to simultaneously foster problem-solving
skills, which is especially valuable for PhD students.
【Job category of graduates】Chemical and Medical-device manufacturer, materials related companies
well-matched to living systems. This research aims at regeneration of functions in tissue engineering. In particular, we are trying todevelop a novel cell
culture scaffold andarticular cartilage usinghydrogels with highmechanical properties.
The research being
performed in our laboratory fuses chemistry
and biology throughpolymer chemistry, toward the developmentof materials that cancontrol living systems.

Research outline
Functional Biomaterials

The creation of functional polymers has been widely studied as anapplication in biomaterials and tissue-engineering materials. Functional polymers have many applications with regard to biomaterials.
These include hydrogels, bioabsorbable materials, and artificial bones.
Bulky soft materials and colloids, micelles, and even solutions can bestudied as materials for controlling the functions of cells or tissues.

Cryoprotective Polymers

Polyampholytes are polymers that have both positive and negativeions in the same molecule. We have demonstrated that several kindsof polyampholytes have a cryoprotective effect on cells in solution.
This interesting phenomenon is a characteristic of polymers withhigh electron charge, especially polyampholytes. We will investigate
and develop membrane-protective materials that can control cellfunctions by clarifying the mechanisms underlying such effects. Polyampholytes can change their conformation by controlling the polyion
complex and thus exhibit various interesting physicochemical properties. We will try to develop novel functional materials by investigating
the interactions between living systems and these polymers and by
exploiting the physicochemical properties of the polymers.

Figure. Examples of the research topics.

Key publications
1. Yamasaki R, Rajan R, Matsumura K. Enhancement of cryopreservation
with intracellularly permeable zwitterionic polymers. Chem. Comm. 59,
14001-14004 (2023)
2. Rajan R, Kumar N, Zhao D, Dai X, Kawamoto K, Matsumura K. Polyampholyte ‐ Based Polymer Hydrogels for the Long ‐ Term Storage,
Protection and Delivery of Therapeutic Proteins. Adv. Healthc. Mater.
12, 2203253 (2023)
3. Kumar N, Oqmhula K, Hongo K, Takagi K, Yusa S, Rajan R, Matsumura
K. Mechanistic insights and importance of hydrophobicity in cationicpolymers for cancer therapy. J. Mater. Chem. B, 11, 1456-1468 (2023)

Tissue-Engineering Biomaterials and DDS Nanocarriers

Biodegradable polysaccharide hydrogels for tissue engineering anddrug delivery systems (DDS) are also being developed. We developed
a novel degradation technique for dextran and cellulose by the addition of amine compounds, and elucidated the mechanisms of degradation. These biodegradable materials can be useful as cell scaffolds
and drug-delivery nanocarriers.

Equipment
UV-visible spectroscope, Fluorescence spectroscope, Cleanbench
for cell culture, Incubator, Infrared resonance spectrometer, Differential scanning calorimeter, NMR

Biomaterials Well-matched to Living Systems

We also perform basic and applied research on materials that are

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://matsu-lab.info/

In our laboratory, we attempt to understand the fundamentals and applications of polymer chemistry and aim to apply these fundamentals to biomaterials research. For this, we need to be familiar with a wide range of disciplines, such as chemistry knowledge, biology, medicine, mechanical engineering, and others.
In addition, the range covered by biomaterials is diverse, such as artificial organs, regenerative medicine, drug delivery, and biosensors. We aim to acquire theknowledge necessary for research and development from a multilateral perspective. We also aim to nurture the problem-solving skills of our students. Students acquire presentation skills through several annual academic presentations and cultivate discussion abilities via a laboratory seminar once a week.

7

MURATA Lab.

E-mail：Professor：MURATA Hideyuki murata-h＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Optoelectronic devices based on organic semiconductors［Keywords］Organic Light Emitting Diodes, Organic Solar Cells, Organic Field Effect Transistors,
Operando measurements, Exciton dynamics in organic semiconductors

Development of High Performanceand Stable Organic Electronic Devices
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
We are looking for students who are curious to develop optoelectronic devices based on organic materials. By considering your researchexperience and scientific background, we will determine your research project.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
You will learn fabrication techniques of organic devices using vacuum deposition method or solution process (spin-coating, dip-coating).
You will also learn characterization skills of organic devices using several electrical and optical measurements. Besides experimental skills,
you may learn fundamental sciences related to organic devices including device physics, materials science and photochemistry. You will
also learn essential skills required as a researcher, such as management of research, documentation and presentation skills.
【Job category of graduates】Researchers and engineers in electronics, chemical, machinery, battery industries, and faculty member inuniversity and national institutes
operating mechanism that takes advantage of the characteristics oforganic materials. We are developing new materials for 2-terminal
devices with simple structures and 3-terminal devices based ontransistors.

Research outline
We have been working on organic electronics, such as organic lightemitting diodes (OLEDs), organic solar cells, and organic memory. Professor Murata is interested in elucidating the degradation
mechanism of OLEDs and developing new optoelectronic devices.
Assistant Professor Eguchi is developing in-situ observation methods and measurement methods under operating environments.
He is also conducting research on enhancing device performanceof various devices and their mechanisms by surface and interface
modification.

Flexible OLED

Elucidation of degradation mechanism of OLEDs

OLED displays provide the best image quality and they can also
be made transparent, flexible, foldable and even rollable andstretchable in the future. The most important challenge in the current OLED field is to achieve high efficiency and durability in blue
OLEDs. We are elucidating the degradation mechanism of blue
OLEDs using fluorescent, phosphorescent and thermally activateddelayed fluorescent materials. We have excellent research facilities
to fabricated OLEDs and to characterize the devices by electricaland optical measurements.

Key publications
1. D. C. Le, D. D. Nguyen, S. Lloyd, T. Suzuki and H. Murata, Degradation of fluorescent organic light emitting diodes caused by quenching of singlet and triplet excitons, J. Mater. Chem. C, 8, 14873 (2020)
2. T. T. Dao, H. Sakai, K. Ohkubo, S. Fukuzumi, H. Murata, Low switching voltage, high-stability organic phototransistor memory based ona photoactive dielectric and an electron trapping layer, Organic Electronics 77C, 105505 (2020).
3. V. Vohra, K. Kawashima, T. Kakara, T. Koganezawa, I. Osaka, K. Takimiya,
H. Murata, Efficient inverted polymer solar cells em- ploying favourable molecular orientation, Nature Photonics, 9, 403 (2015).

Evaluation of structures and electronic states under device
operation

We have recently started the development of Operando measurement systems to evaluate structures and electronic states ofmolecular thin films in actual organic devices under working conditions. These new measurement techniques enable us to deepen our understanding of device physics and to improve device
characteristics. We are also planning to develop a new method
to measure physical properties of thin films in situ during device
fabrication process, and aim to develop high-performance organic
devices.

Equipment
Ultra-high vacuum depositing system,
High vacuum deposition system with glove box
Device characterization system
Photoluminescence quantum yield measurement system, Time-resolved
photoluminescence and electroluminescence measurement system
Device stability measurement system
Photoelectron yield spectroscopy, Inverse photoelectron spectroscopy

Organic memory

We are trying to realize a non-volatile organic memory with a new

Teaching policy

Flexible OFET memory［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/murata/index.html

During undergraduate education, you may have learnt basic knowledge of your field of expertise. A graduate school is a place
to carry out your research using your knowledge with acquiring advanced knowledge. Even if your research goes wrong and you
face obstacles, the experience of overcoming difficulties is valuable. I think that a successful experience gives you confidence,and overcoming difficulties bring up you to the next stage.

8

NAGAO Lab.

Professor：NAGAO Yuki

E-mail：ynagao＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Protonics, Polymer Chem., ElectroChem. Coordination Chem., Surface Chem.
［Keywords］Proton Conductive Materials, Self-assembly, Electrochemical
Catalysts, Fuel Cells, Energy Conversion, Sensors, Battery

Innovating for a Greener Future
through Advanced Materials Science
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Our group respects your diverse research background. We are looking for students who can keep a high motivation to tackle new research
while demonstrating your strengths. It is vital to create a laboratory where research staff and students can share the spirit of co-prosperity.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Through twice a week seminars conducted in English, specifically research discussion and literature introduction, you will acquire theability to examine and think oneself, with the help of supervisor and seniors. As a practice opportunity, you will study on polymer chemistry,
surface chemistry, electrochemistry, coordination chemistry etc. You also acquire following things. 1. Problem discovery and solution
method. 2. Material synthesis and various analytical methods. 3. Interpretation method of data based on logical thinking and presentation
skill.
【Job category of graduates】University faculty in home country, Chemical company, Energy company

Research outline
Securing diverse energy resources is an urgent issue for resource-poor Japan to achieve sustainable development. And
it is a dream of mankind to create hydrogen and oxygen from
common water, and to create carbon materials using carbon
dioxide as a resource. A hydrogen society is necessary for the
decarbonized society that is rapidly progressing in the world.
We are researching ion-conducting polymer materials, inorganic
materials, and organic-inorganic hybrid materials using interfaces that can be applied to fuel cells, batteries, and sensors that
support the hydrogen society. Let's contribute to a hydrogensociety together with us.

Fig. 1 Schematic of our research. Materials science for development of polymer
electrolyte fuel cells, batteries, tactile sensor, and ion switching.

Key publications

Research Themes

1. Y. Yao, H. Watanabe, M. Hara, S. Nagano, Y. Nagao, Lyotropic
Liquid Crystalline Property and Organized Structure in High Proton-Conductive Sulfonated Semi-Alicyclic Oligoimide Thin Films,
ACS Omega, 8, 7470 - 7478 (2023).
2. F. Wang, S. Nagano, M. Hara, Y. Nagao, Hydration and OH-/BrConduction Properties of Fluorene-Thiophene-Based Anion
Exchange Thin Films Tethered with Different Cations, ACS Appl.
Polym. Mater., 4, 5965 - 5974 (2022)
3. F. Wang, D. Wang, Y. Nagao, OH- Conductive Properties and Water Uptake of Anion Exchange Thin Films (Selected as The CoverFeature), ChemSusChem, 14, 2694 - 2697 (2021).

1. Research on fuel cell performance improvementProton transport property in polymer organized structure
OH- ion transport property in polymer thin films
2. Research on Li ion battery performance improvement
Precise polymer arrangement for electrolyte-electrodeinterface
3. Rechargeable proton batteries
4. Research on external force response sensors using ion
transport
5. Ion switching by coordination compounds (Dr. Aoki, AssistantProfessor)

Equipment
Material analyzer (IR, UV-Vis, NMR, GPC, XRD, TG-DTA)
Electrochemical equipment (LCR, CV, in situ QCM, fuel cell, battery test system)
Surface analyzer (XPS, in situ GIXRS, XRR, white interference, AFM)
Molecular orientation analyzer (IR, pMAIRS, polarized microscope)
External synchrotron and neutron experiments

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/nagao-www/?lang=en

We do not set core time, but encourage you to do experiments basically from 9am to 5pm. The research topic will be determined in consultation with the research staff. We
expect the following to our students: 1) to learn through cutting-edge research; 2) to improve your communication skills to facilitate your research; 3) to refresh as much as
possible on weekends for leading a fulfilling life; 4) to actively interact with outside researchers.
Seminars are held twice a week, research discussion and journal paper introduction meetings. Once a month, a joint presentation meeting is held with laboratories from otheruniversities. Conference presentations and publications are encouraged. Financial support is provided for contributions to laboratory operations and collaborative research.

9

OHDAIRA Lab.

E-mail：Professor：OHDAIRA Keisuke ohdaira＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Solar cells, Semiconductor engineering, Thin film formation［Keywords］crystallization, passivation, module reliability

Develop next-generation Si-based solar
cells through novel process technologies
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Students are preferred to have basic knowledge of solid-state physics and semiconductors.
Concerns for a global environmental issue and an energy problem may become a driving force to promote their research.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Students can achieve skills for the operation of vacuum equipment, thin-film formation and characterization, device fabrication andcharacterization by performing their own research. They can also acquire basic academic skills for semiconductors and solar cells throughdata analysis, daily discussion, and a weekly seminar. Furthermore, students can gain high problem-solving skills, owing to the policy of ourgroup supporting individual initiatives. Presentation and communication skills can be strengthened through presentations in domestic andinternational conferences and a booth exhibition.
【Job category of graduates】Post-doctoral researcher in institutes, Manufacture and research work of electronics and materials relatedcompanies
alytic impurity doping (Cat-doping), can be applied to the formation of front- orback-surface field layers and doping layers in crystalline silicon solar cells.

Research outline

3．Reliability and novel structure development of crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules

Solar cells based on silicon, which is highly abundant on the earth, dominate
the present market share of photovoltaic technologies, and is expected to be
the leading player also in the future. At the same time, the development ofsolar cells with lower cost, higher efficiency, and long-term reliability are necessary, and further technological breakthroughs are required. Our group focuseson the following research topics and attempts to establish the basic technology of silicon-based high-performance solar cells.

The performance degradation of photovoltaic modules owing to a voltage
between a module frame and cells, potential-induced degradation (PID), isa crucial issue particularly in large-scale photovoltaic power plants in which
a number of cells and modules are connected in series. We investigate themechanism of the PID of crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules and develop
measures for the suppression of the PID. In addition, components in the present conventional modules are adhered with encapsulant. This causes various
types of degradation originating from the encapsulant and makes it difficult
to sort and recycle the components when disposing of the modules. To solve
this problem, we are also developing new-type photovoltaic modules with noencapsulant.

1．Formation of polycrystalline silicon films for solar cellsby rapid annealing

Flash lamp annealing (FLA), millisecond-order discharge from Xe lamps, cansupply pulse light with a fluence of several tens of J/cm2, which momentarily
corresponds to several tens of thousands times as much as sun-light on theearth. Our group investigates the formation of polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si)films on low-cost glass substrates for cost-effective solar cells. Poly-Si films
with a thickness of >4 µm can be formed by supplying a single shot of flash
lamp pulse on precursor amorphous silicon (a-Si) prepared on glass substrates. When hydrogenated a-Si films are used as precursor films, hydrogenatoms remain inside the silicon films even after crystallization, which can contribute to the termination of dangling bonds in the poly-Si and the formation ofpoly-Si films with low defect density. Our group investigates the fundamental
mechanism of the crystallization of a-Si films by FLA and the application of thepoly-Si films to thin-film crystalline silicon solar cells.

Key publications
1. K. Ohdaira, M. Akitomi, Y. Chiba, and A. Masuda, Potential-induced
degradation of n-type front-emitter crystalline silicon photovoltaic
modules — comparison between indoor and outdoor test results,
Sol. Energy Mater. Sol. Cells 249, 112038 (2023).
2. H. T. C. Tu and K. Ohdaira, Long term stability of low temperaturedeposited Cat-CVD SiNx thin film against damp-heat stress, Jpn. J.
Appl. Phys. 63, 01SP25 (2024).
3. Z. Wang, H. T. C. Tu, and K. Ohdaira, Crystallization of catalytic
CVD hydrogenated n-a-Si films on textured glass substrates byflash lamp annealing, Jpn. J. Appl. Phys. 61, SB1019 (2022).

2．Application of catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CatCVD) to the fabrication of solar cells

Cat-CVD, a film deposition method through the catalytic cracking of gas molecules on a heated catalyzing wire, can reduce damage to a sample surface due
to its plasma-damage-less nature, and can produce high-quality passivation films
which can significantly suppress the recombination of minority carriers on thesurface of crystalline silicon and lead to the realization of high-efficiency crystalline silicon solar cells. Cat-CVD apparatus can also be utilized for the dopingof B or P atoms to the surface of silicon samples by exposing to B- or P-related
radicals formed by the catalytic cracking of B2H6 or PH3. This novel process, cat-

Teaching policy

Equipment
FLA system
Cat-CVD chamber
Solar cell characterization system
Photovoltaic module fabrication and characterization system
Thin-film characterization system［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/ohdaira/en/home_e

Our group has a policy of supporting students’ individual initiatives, and their own ideas can be included in their researches. A
morning meeting is held every weekday, and the activities of each student are shared. Students can also have simple research
discussion in the meeting. In a study meeting, held on every Saturday, a duty student is required to explain the detail of a journal
paper and to answer questions from other students and staffs, by which students can obtain high basic academic skills. Students
can actively present their research achievements, and acquire ability to write their own research paper for themselves.

10OHKI L ab.

Professor：OHKI Shinya

E-mail：shinya-o＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Protein NMR［Keywords］Protein, Structure-function relationship, NMR

Exploring structure-function relationship ofproteins using NMR spectroscopy
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
To start the research work at my group, students should have at least one of the basic knowledge of biochemistry, biotechnology,
bioinformatiocs and NMR at undergrad level. The students who are good at computer work are also welcome.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
The goal of our research work is understanding biological functions of proteins at molecular level based on their three-dimensional
structures and dynamics. For this purpose, we are employing modern NMR techniques. My group is the super-user of four NMR machines(400MHz x 2, 500MHz, and 800MHz) in JAIST, thus the students in my group are expected to be NMR experts. Because we are working on
biomolecules, a wide variety of skills for preparing and analyzing them will also be acquired. Scientific writing, presentation and discussion
skills are of course trained at group meeting and conferences.
【Job category of graduates】R & D of food, chemical, and pharmaceutical companies(3) Proteins in the signaling pathways

Research outline

A wide variety of biological signals in cells is harmonized by proteins, lipids, nucleotides, etc. Post-transcription modification including phosphorylation and methylation
is known as one of the cues for activating/inactivating the biological functions. The
chemical modification is a trigger for structural change, resulting the new conformer
interacting with the target molecule. We are focusing on monitoring the conformational transition of the proteins at work.

(1) Development of stable-isotope labeling methods

Protein NMR samples are necessary to be labeled with NMR active nuclei, such as
13
C and 15N. Techniques for preparing such NMR samples are called as “stable-isotope
labeling”. The labeling is normally achieved by using genetically modified E. coli., but
not all protein samples can be expressed by E. coli. Thus, many other methods havebeen proposed. As one of the alternatives, we had developed a method to use plant
BY2. Because BY2 is a higher cell, it has a potential to express complex proteins
which are difficult for E. coli. to synthesize. Moreover, using BY2, we had optimized
the protocol for labeling only Ile, Leu, and Val residues in the sample protein. We arecontinuously trying to develop some new labeling methods using the BY2 system.

(2) Proteins and peptides containing disulfide bonds

It is difficult for E. coli system to express proteins and peptides containing disulfide
bonding (SS-bond). However, the BY2 system can do it. Thus, we have been trying to
explore structure-function relationship of proteins and peptides containing SS-bonds.
Here two topics what we had done are described briefly for your better understanding.
Stomagen, one of the peptide hormones, increases stomatal density of plants. Because stomagen contains three SS-bonds, sufficient amount sample was not preparedusing E. coli system. We, however, could prepare the stable-isotope labeled stomagen using the BY2 system, and studied its structure and dynamics. The NMR results
opened the discussion for understanding structure-function relationship of the family
members at atomic resolution. Until today, we have successfully designed and actually
prepared the mutants showing desired bioactivity to increase or decrease the stomatal density. It is believed that such basic science will contribute to solve recent issues
on food yield and earth environment in the future.
ESF, containing four SS-bonds, acts at the early phase in seed development. When
ESF is inactive, the size and shape of seeds become heterogeneous. We have solved
the three-dimensional structure of ESF prepared by the BY2 system. And the structure has indicated the key residues for its activity. It is expected that controlling the
ESF activity might provide many applications to harvest big seeds for agriculture andfruits without seeds for easy food processing, etc.
We are also handling various other proteins and peptides containing SS-bonds, suchas defensins and toxins. Knowledge of their structure-function relationship will help
for developing new drugs.

Teaching policy

Figure. (left) Three-dimensional (right) Methyl region of 1H-13C CT-HSQC of BPTI.
structure of stomagen.
Leu and Leu/Val selective labeling are achieved.

Key publications
1. T. Imamura, H. Takagi, A. Miyazato, S. Ohki, H. Mizoguchi & M. Mori “Isolationand characterization of the betalein biosynthesis gene involved in hypocotyl
pigmentation of the allotetraplois Chenopodium quinoa” Biophys. Biochem.
Res. Commun. (2018) 496, 280-286.
2. L.M. Costa, E. Marshall, M. Tesfaye, K.A.T. Silverstein, M. Mori, Y. Umetsu,
S.L. Otterbach, R. Papareddy, H.G. Dickinson, K. Boutiller, K.A. VandenBosh,
S. Ohki & J.F. Gutierrez-Marcos “Central cell-derived peptides regulate early
embryo patterning in flowering plants” Science (2014) 344, 168-172.
3. S. Ohki, M. Takeuchi & M. Mori “The NMR structure of stomagen reveals
the basis of stomatal density regulation by plant peptide hormones” Nat.
Commun. (2011) 2, 512.

Equipment(in my group) deep-freezers, PCR, UV meter, centrifuges,
bio-shakers, incubators, HPLCs, Linux machines, SPR, etc.
(open facility) 800MHz-NMR equipped with a TCI cryogenic probe,
MALDI-TOF/TOF MS, FT-MS, etc.

［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/nmcenter/labs/s-ohki-www/contents/Ohki_Lab.html

For the better scientific research work, discussion based on the experimental results is an undoubted important factor. Thus,
students are recommended to discuss each other. And students can have opportunity to talk about his/her research progress atgroup meeting. Through the research, students get the knowledge how to plan small projects and to organize them toward the
big goal.

11

OSHIMA Lab.

E-mail：Professor：OSHIMA Yoshifumi oshima＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］TEM/STEM, nanomaterials

Nano-Characterization for innovation- In-situ TEM/SEM Observation Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Our laboratory studies electrical, mechanical or electrochemical properties of nanomaterials, which has been pointed out to be strongly correlated with their atomic structuresor shapes, using transmission electron microscope. Those who really want to find something new in nanomaterials' properties will be able to achieve such experiments. Your
motivation and/or will are critical for accomplish your research project. If possible, you had better understand the fundamentals of mathematics and physics.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
You will understand fundamentals of solid state physics deeply through experiments. The TEM image is information in real space andthe diffraction is information in reciprocal space. Both informations are investigated in order to clarify the atomic structure of the sample,
which make you understand the relationship between real and reciprocal spaces deeply. Also, you will master good skills, for example, TEM
operation, Vacuum equipment operation, programming (LabView) and so on. Furthermore, you will be able to develop in-situ TEM holder
by yourself, if you join the doctoral course, which is great advantage for you.
【Job category of graduates】Manufacture, Analytics company, Research laboratory

Research outline
We have developed an experimental system of combining an
atomic force microscope (AFM) with ultra-high vacuum transmission electron microscope (TEM) (see Figs. 1 and 2). Using this system, we can directly obtain relationship between atomic structure
and mechanical strength of nano-scaled material. Such an experimental system is quite unique in the world and advantage for us.
Fig. 3 A typical annular bright field (ABF) image of LiV2O4 crystal viewing from the[110] direction. Lithium ions are visualized in the image.

Fig. 1 A photo of ultrahigh vacuum TEM. Onlya few UHV-TEM works inthe world.

Fig. 2 A photo of a AFM holder, which can be installedin the TEM. We developed such in-situ TEM holder byourselves.

Key publications
1. J. Zhang, et al.,”Atomic scale mechanics explored by in situ
transmission electron microscopy with a quartz length-extension
resonator as a force sensor”, Nanotechnology 31 (2020) 205706.
2. C. Liu, et al.,”Origin of nonlinear current-voltage curves for suspended zigzag edge graphene nanoribbon”, Carbon 165 (2020)
476.
3. Y. Chiew, et al.,”Ordering of Intercalated Fe Atoms in FexTiS2Structures Clarified using Transmission Electron Microscopy”, J.
Phys. Soc. Jpn. 89 (2020) 074601.

We mainly use TEM and/or STEM, because these are powerfultools to observe materials at an atomic scale (see Fig. 3). We havefound that very thin metal nanoparticles showed different structural phases from their bulk crystal structure and also very thinmetal nanowire became tubular structure like carbon nanotube, forexample. Recent advanced TEM enables us to visualized light element at an atomic scale.

Equipment

We will devise unique experimental systems based on TEM andclarify relationship between atomic structure and physical and/or
chemical properties of frontier materials. Our final goal is discovery of frontier materials, which is based on understanding physicaland/or chemical properties at an atomic scale.

Teaching policy

Ultra High Vacuum Transmission Electron Microscope
In-situ TEM holder (home-made)Vacuum chamber
Frequency Modulation Atomic Force Microscopy Controler［Website］URL：https://www.jaist-oshima-labo.com/english/

We held a regular meeting every week, in which we read a selected paper, discuss about research progress of assigned student
and lean the fundamental of solid state physics with each other. I recommend mutual learning and/or discussion (a student
teaches the others and vice versa) in order to understand solid state physics deeply. I also recommend that students attend domestic or international meetings and have presentations in order to improve communication skill.

12

SUZUKI Lab.

E-mail：Professor：SUZUKI Toshi-kazu tosikazu＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Compound semiconductor electronics［Keywords］Compound semiconductors, High-speed devices,
Energy-saving devices, Device characterization

Compound semiconductor devices forfunctional diversification of electronics
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Fundamental understandings of physics/mathematics with logical abilities are important, although they are not necessary conditions.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Acquiring compound semiconductor device fabrication and characterization/measurement technologies, it will be possible to physicallyconsider and understand the behavior of electrons in devices. This will be the foundation for future activities in various fields of electronics.
In addition, it is encouraged to join collaborative research programs with industry, in order to have a firsthand knowledge of industrial
electronics. We also place the importance of presentation skills.
【Job category of graduates】Electric appliance, Semiconductor device and electronic component, Semiconductor manufacturing
equipment, Information and communication, Automotive

Research outline
Functional diversification of electronics

The “More Moore” paradigm based on Si-device scaling is facing fundamental limitations. In order to develop future electronics, functional diversification from the viewpoint of “More than Moore” is quite important.
Compound semiconductor devices will play important roles towards suchfunctional diversification.

Why compound semiconductors?

There are various compound semiconductors with various physical properties, which are beneficial for various device functions. In particular, compound semiconductors with excellent electron transport properties and/or
those with direct energy bands are suitable for excellent electron devices
and/or optical devices. Narrow-gap compound semiconductors exhibiting
high electron mobilities and high electron saturation velocities, such as InAs,
are useful for high-speed device applications. Also, narrow-gap compound
semiconductors having energy gaps corresponding to mid-infrared (MIR)
light can be applied to optical devices in the MIR range. On the other hand,wide-gap compound semiconductors, such as GaN and AlN, have energy
gaps corresponding to ultraviolet (UV) light, which are beneficial not onlyfor UV optical device applications, but also for high-power electron device
applications because of their high breakdown voltages. Since GaN exhibitsa high electron saturation velocity owing to its large optical phonon energy
and band structure, although its electron mobility is not so high, we can expect excellent high-speed, high-power, and energy-saving performances of
GaN-based devices.

Key publications
1. Low-frequency noise in AlTiO/AlGaN/GaN metal-insulator-semiconductor field-effect transistors with non-gate-recessed or
partially-gate-recessed structures, D. D. Nguyen, Y. Deng, and T.
Suzuki, Semicond. Sci. Technol. 38, 095010 (2023).
2. Mechanism of low-temperature-annealed Ohmic contacts to AlGaN/GaN heterostructures: A study via formation and removalof Ta-based Ohmic-metals, K. Uryu, S. Kiuchi, T. Sato, and T.
Suzuki, Appl. Phys. Lett. 120, 052104 (2022).
3. Electron mobility anisotropy in InAs/GaAs(001) heterostructures, S. P. Le and T. Suzuki, Appl. Phys. Lett. 118, 182101(2021).

Our researches

Equipment

Towards functional diversification of electronics, it is important to use compound semiconductors “in the right material in the right place”. Our laboratory is engaged in researches on compound semiconductor devices aiming
at future high-speed and energy-saving applications. We develop device
fabrication technologies using narrow- and wide-gap compound semiconductors. Moreover, device characterization/measurement technologies aredeveloped in order to obtain deeper insights into device operations.

Teaching policy

Molecular beam epitaxy system
Electron-beam/UV lithography systems
Semiconductor parameter analyzer
Network analyzer
Dynamic signal analyzer［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/nmcenter/labs/suzuki-www/•Engineering with a scientific mind
•Step-by-step with being convinced•Good collaboration between faculty and students•Creating a basis for future electronics

13

TAKAMURA Lab.

E-mail：Professor：TAKAMURA Yuzuru takamura＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］BioMEMS, Microfluidics, Analytical Chemistry, Biosensor［Keywords］Blood analysis chip, Single cell analysis, Mass spectroscopy
chip, Micro/Nano process, PZT Low-T process, Micro plasma

Microfluidic devices and sensors forbiochemical and medical applications
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
The subjects we have been dealing with are strongly interdisciplinary fields, so we welcome students from various backgrounds. We willassign research topics according to individual background/interest such as physics, machinery, electronics, control, materials as well as
advanced nano-biochemistry technologies.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Basic and practical skills in analytical chemistry. Some parts of our laboratory are closely related to molecular biology and/or materials
science. Since we handle trace amount of sample so that students will learn a handling technique of trace amount of biological sample,
interfacial treatment/integration between biomolecules and inorganic materials, observation / measurement technology of minutefluorescence and optical signal etc. In addition, you can also learn advanced micro/nanofabrication techniques, numerical simulation,material analysis methods such as TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS throughout your study.
【Job category of graduates】Analytical, electronics, mechanics, equipment manufacturer, semiconductor manufacturer, materials
science/engineering, chemical related.
lab-on-paper, fully automated electrochemical sensors with fg/ml order
limit of detection with comparable levels of cost and handling like SMBG
(self-monitoring of blood glucose).

Research outline
We are studying next generation biochip techniques for various biomedical
and environmental applications, employing semiconductor technology,
nanomaterials / biomolecules, micro / nanofluidcs, and lab-on-a-chip techniques. Our interest extends to a wide range in fusion of nanotechnology
and biotechnology, understanding of phenomena in the nano & micro scale,and practical applications such as high sensitive point of care biosensors,
manipulation of liquids on chip, analysis of single cell and single molecules,
LEP-AES ultra-compact elemental analyzer, and various bio/chemical processing units.

3) Development of hand-held elemental analyzer using
micro liquid electrode plasma

By simply putting a liquid sample into a micro channel whose center ismade narrower and applying high voltage from both ends, we found thatquantitative and highly sensitive measurement of trace amount of elements
is possible from the emission of the generated plasma. Using this principle, we are developing micro elemental analyzer that can measure on-site
harmful metals (Hg, Cd, Pb, etc.) contained in food, tap water, soil factory
wastewater / waste.

1) Development of highly integrated biochemical chip
To realize a high-performance biochip,
precisely fluid control on chip and highly
sensitive detector are important.
In this laboratory, we are developing various liquid control mechanisms on chips
including PZT actuator array by a solution
process and novel detection technologies
using nanomaterials and nanoscience(Fig.1). Using these, we aim to develop
chips for single cell analysis in tissue atthe molecular level, highly integrated biochip for general purposes (Fig.2).

Key publications
1. Pulse-heating ionization for protein on-chip mass spectrometry, Kiyotaka
Sugiyama, Hiroki Harako, Yoshiaki Ukita, Tatsuya Shimoda, Yuzuru
Takamura, Analytical Chemistry, 86, 15, 7593-7597, 05 August 2014.
2. Development of automated paper-based devices for sequential multistep sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays using inkjet printing, Amara Apilux, Yoshiaki Ukita, Miyuki Chikae, Orawom Chilapakul
and Yuzuru Takamura, Lab Chip,13（1）,126-135, January 2013.
3. High sensitive elemental analysis for Cd and Pb by liquid electrodeplasma atomic emission spectrometry with quartz glass chip and sample flow, Atsushi Kitano, Akiko Iiduka, Tamotsu Yamamoto, Yoshiaki
Ukita, Eiichi Tamiya, Yuzuru Takamura, Analytical Chemistry 83（24）,9424-9430, 04 November 2011.

Figure 1. Integrated microfluidic
sensor and actuators.

2) Development of highly sensitive
biosensing technologies

A drop of blood contains rich information Figure2. Concept model of total
representing various conditions in our integrated microfluidics devices.
body. Analyzing these enables various things, such as ultra-early detectionof severe diseases, day-to-day health management, or guiding meals andexercise avoiding lifestyle disease.
To do this, we are developing various technologies to measure very small
biomarkers with low-cost and user-friendly, including mass analysis chip,

Teaching policy

Equipment
Clean Room and Semiconductor Fabrication Facility
Electrochemical Equipment
Surface Plasmon Resonance Equipment
Total Reflection single molecule microscope
Nano-imprinting systems［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/takamura/index_e.html

Many of the recent new technologies in medicine and life sciences are based on the advancement of new engineering technologies, especially fusion of nanotechnology and biotechnology. We are welcoming students having various backgrounds such as
biology, physics, mechanics, electronics, and chemistry. We set goals according to each student’s background and purpose, andsupport and guide them to acquire what they need towards them.

14

TANIIKE Lab.

E-mail：Professor: TANIIKE Toshiaki taniike＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］High-throughput experimentation, materials informatics, computational chemistry［Keywords］Heterogeneous catalysis, polymerization, nanocomposites,
membranes, graphene, data science

Advanced Material Design based on
Exploration, Learning, and Prediction
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Our research areas are highly multidisciplinary, where students from various backgrounds, not only chemistry (catalysis, polymer,
nanomaterials, etc.) but also engineering, data science, computation, and so on, are welcome.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Students will acquire 1) advanced research methodologies based on high-throughput experiments, data science, and computational chemistry; 2) a
method of strategic planning for maximizing research outcome with given resources; 3) skills to work in an interdisciplinary and international environment.
【Job category of graduates】R&D for materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering

Research outline
Facing rapid acceleration in science and technology, Taniike laboratory aims to develop and implement innovation-oriented materials science based on high-throughput experimentation (HTE), data
science (materials informatics), and simulation. We explore a wide
range of materials and provide solutions to the challenges of oursociety with unprecedented efficiency.

1. High-throughput experimentation

Combination of different elements and materials can bear an
astronomical number of possibilities. One of the purposes in materials science is to discover good combinations and a novel way(process) to produce the combinations. We perform HTE using
highly automated and/or parallelized instruments. We maximize thethroughput of the experiments and change the research style fromlabor-intensive to brain-intensive works.

Key publications
1. L. Takahashi, T. Taniike, K. Takahashi et al., Constructing Catalyst Knowledge Networks from
Catalysts Big Data in Oxidative Coupling for Methane for Designing Catalysts, Chemical Science
2021, 12, 12546-12555 (press released, selected as Front Cover).
2. T.N. Nguyen, K. Takahashi, T. Taniike et al., High-Throughput Experimentation and Catalyst Informatics for Oxidative Coupling of Methane, ACS Catalysis, 2020, 10, 921-932 (press released).
3. G. Takasao, Toru Wada, T. Taniike et al., Machine Learning-Aided Structure Determination for
TiCl4-Capped MgCl2 Nanoplate of Heterogeneous Ziegler-Natta Catalyst, ACS Catalysis, 2019, 9,2599-2609.

2. Data science

HTE generates materials big data which include synthetic conditions, structural characteristics, and performances of the materials.
In order to implement efficient exploration of materials, it is notenough only to pick up good ones: It is necessary to clarify a structure-property relationship. Based on approaches of data scienceand materials informatics, we extract knowledge from the data andfurther accelerate materials discoveries.

Equipment

3. Simulation

Developments of computers and computational chemistry haveenabled realistic simulation of complicated materials. Nonetheless,virtual materials design in computers (i.e. in-silico design) is still far
to be practical. The most difficult task is how to obtain a molecularmodel which represents a material. We use experiments and simulations in a comprehensive fashion for establishing a high-precision
molecular model towards in-silico materials design. Computational
chemistry based on deep understanding of experimental materials
science is aimed.

Andrew+ Pipetting robot
Multipurpose parallel reactor (developed in-house)
Microwave synthesizer with a robotic arm
Catalyst screening instruments (developed in-house)
Photocatalyst screening instrument (developed in-house)
Operando chemiluminescence analyzer (developed in-house)
Chemiluminescence imaging instruments (developed in-house)
In-situ mid/far-IR spectrometer
Laser Raman spectrometer
Microplate reader
X-ray diffractometer with an autosampler
X-Ray fluorescence spectrometer with an autosampler
etc.

Together with HTE instrumental development and data science
programming, we focus on five subjects: Catalyst & polymer informatics; structure-performance relationship; nanomaterials like
MOF, graphene; polymer nanocomposites.

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/taniike/en/

There is no core time in our laboratory: The throughput of experiments and the research itself is maximized in order to assure
the work-life balance. On the other hand, extensive discussion is regularly made based on experimental group meeting (once a
few weeks) and colloquium (once a month). The attendance of domestic and international conferences is fully supported.

15

YAMADATAKAMURA Lab.

E-mail：Professor：YAMADA-TAKAMURA Yukiko yukikoyt＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Materials Science and Engineering, Surface Science［Keywords］nanomaterials, 2D materials, thin films, ultra-highvacuum, hetero-epitaxial growth, surface and interfaces

Development of nanomaterials based on
the understanding of surface and interface
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
We are looking for students who are curious to see how the atoms are aligned at the surfaces and interfaces of materials, and are eager, tounderstand how these structures determine the properties of materials by carrying out many experiments, calculations, and thinking.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
You are expected to use cutting-edge microscopy and spectroscopy systems without destroying them, and to observe crystal andelectronic structures which no one has ever seen. Under such circumstances, you have to be cautious and daring at the same time. Quite
often, something goes wrong, and things will not proceed as you planned. You will learn to be patient and flexible to accomplish the original
goal, and in the end, you will be able to find something totally new and unexpected. Frequent discussions with faculties and fellow students
will make you think logically and critically.
【Job category of graduates】Engineers/researchers in electronics, materials, healthcare, system integrating, machinery industries, andnational agencies
is hidden, which is waiting for you to
be discovered. Our students have discovered a new polymorph of a typicallayered monochalcogenide, gallium
selenide (GaSe), by cross-sectionalscanning transmission electron microscopy, and studied its stability andelectronic structure by first-principles
calculations. You just have to keep your eyes and mind wide open.

Research outline
Modern industry is founded on thin film materials technologies, ranging from protective coatings to electronic devices, and in order to improve their performance,
controlling film-substrate interfaces would be critical. The surfaces and interfaces
become even more important in the growth of nanomaterials and their properties,
since the bulk part is reduced and the surfaces and interfaces become dominant.
Our group develops new nanomaterials based on the understanding of surfaces andinterfaces obtained by using cutting-edge microscopy and spectroscopy systems
and by carrying out first-principles calculations.

We will not limit our research to the above studies. There are numerous surface andinterface problems waiting to be solved. We would like to help you find, understand,and solve your own interesting and challenging questions.

One of the main research projects in our group is “silicene”, Si-version graphene,
and related two-dimensional (2D) materials formed on hetero-epitaxially grown thinfilms of zirconium diboride (ZrB2). ZrB2 has a very good lattice matching to a widegap semiconductor, hexagonal gallium nitride (GaN), and thus, ZrB2 is a promisingbuffer layer for GaN growth when it is grown on a low cost, large diameter substratesuch as Si wafers.

Key publications
1. First-principles study on the stability and electronic structure ofmonolayer GaSe with trigonal-antiprismatic structure, H. Nitta,
T. Yonezawa, A. Fleurence, Y. Yamada-Takamura, and T. Ozaki,
Physical Review B 102, 235407 (2020).
2. Emergence of nearly flat bands through a kagome lattice embedded
in an epitaxial two-dimensional Ge layer with a bitriangular structure, A. Fleurence, C.-C. Lee, R. Friedlein, Y. Fukaya, S. Yoshimoto,K. Mukai, H. Yamane, N. Kosugi, J. Yoshinobu, T. Ozaki, and Y.
Yamada-Takamura, Physical Review B 102, 201102(R) (2020).
3. Van der Waals integration of silicene and hexagonal boron
nitride, F. B. Wiggers, A. Fleurence, K. Aoyagi, T. Yonezawa, Y.
Yamada-Takamura, H. Feng, J. Zhuang, Y. Du, A. Y. Kovalgin and
M. P. de Jong, 2D Materials 6, 035001 (2019).

We discovered silicene, in 2012, while trying to understand the surface structure
and properties of diboride thin films grown on Si wafers, thanks to close collaboration with a photoelectron spectroscopy group and first-principles calculation groupin JAIST. Our findings attracted lots of interests, and collaborations have expanded
to other universities and institutions in Japan and overseas. Through such international collaboration, we have recently succeeded in encapsulating silicene underinsulating and inert hexagonal boron nitride monolayer which is another interesting
2D material.
We combine many different material characterization techniques, including thosecarried out at synchrotron radiation facilities, and also perform first-principles calculations to tackle with unique and novel 2D materials. Recently, we have discovered
that, on the surface of ZrB2 thin film grown on Ge substrate, 2D Ge layer crystallizes
into a structure which we predict to have a “flat band” in its electronic structure.

Equipment
Ultra-high vacuum thin film growth system, ultra-high vacuum
scanning probe microscopes, thin film X-ray diffraction, synchrotron radiation facilities, supercomputers.

Even in a material studied by many researchers for a very long time, a big surprise

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/yukikoyt

An originally designed UHV-CVD system with RHEED and a very unique UHVMBE-XPS/UPS-SPM system are installed in MS
Building-IV. We welcome those who are interested in carrying out experiments such as film growth and surface/interface analysis with ultimate resolution, and, more important, who are always curious to find out what is really going on.

16

YAMAGUCHI
Masayuki Lab.

E-mail：Professor：YAMAGUCHI Masayuki m_yama＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Material Design Based on Rheological Approach［Keywords］Polymer Rheology, Polymer Processing, Polymer Blends

Design of High-Performance Polymer
Materials by Rheological Approach
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Basic knowledge of polymer science, chemical engineering and physical chemistry

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Students will get the skill to develop a novel polymer material without using polymerization techniques. Basic concepts of polymer
processing will be immediately available in industry.
【Job category of graduates】Plastic/Rubber/Fiber Producers; Polymer Processing and Compounding Companies
2.We are carrying out various projects for material
design employing conventional and/or newly
developed polymers. Novel concepts to improve
properties or to provide a
specific function are proposed for the applicationof automobile, electric,
and optical parts. Appropriate molecular structure, molecularaggregation state, and the processing method to obtain themorphology are presented in the field of rubber, fiber, paint, andplastics. Here are the examples of high-performance automobile
parts developed by means of rheological modification.

Research outline
Rheology - the new science of deformation and flow for a material showing complicated mechanical responses - is necessary todevelop advanced polymeric materials. Our laboratory is carryingout material design of functional and high-performance polymers based on the rheological approach to create novel displays,
next-generation automobile parts, eco-friendly materials including biomass-based plastics, and so on. Moreover, innovation ofpolymer processing is also studied with our industrial partners,
considering trouble-shooting of actual processing operations. Our
research activities are outlined below.

Key publications
1. M. Yamaguchi et al., "Modification of rheological responses underelongational flow", in "Polymeric foams; Innovations in technologies and environmentally friendly materials", Ed. S. T. Lee, Chap. 2,
CRC, Boca Raton, 2022.
2. M. Yamaguchi et al., "Novel methods to control the optical anisotropy of cellulose esters", in "Pulp Production and Processing",
Chap. 13, Ed. V. Pope, De Gruyter, Berlin, 2020.
3. M. Yamaguchi, "Manufacturing of High Performance Biomass-Based Polyesters by Rheological Approach" in "Handbookof Composite from Renewable Materials", Chap. 2, Eds. V.K.
Thakur, M.K. Thakur, Wiley, New York, 2016.

1.Rheology provides fundamental information on polymer processing. Based on the experiences and basic information on polymer
sciences, extensive study on various processing operations suchas foaming, injection-molding and extrusion is performed considering properties of final products. We also continue proposing
new ideas to control the rheological properties including elongational viscosity. The obtained results provide new ideas for material design of high-performance or functional polymers.

Teaching policy

Equipment
Strain-controlled rheometer; Stress-controlled rheometer,
Capillary rheometer; Elongational rheometer, Twin-screw mixer,
Dynamic mechanical analyzer; Biaxial stretching machine［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/yamaguchi/index-e.html

Our research targets are closed to industrial applications. However, we strongly encourage students to study the basics to propose a novel idea.

17

AKABORI Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：AKABORI Masashi akabori＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Epitaxial growth, Nanostructures, Spintronics［Keywords］Semiconductors, Magnetic metals, Nanofabrication,
Electrical measurement, Magnetic field, Low temperature

Spintronics Research in
Semiconductor Nanowires
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Our laboratory is experimentally studying solid state materials and devices. Therefore, students who like to handle them will be matched with us. The students should better have physics background especiallyelectromagnetism and quantum mechanics, and basic background of solid state physics including semiconductor physics, chemistry, programing, etc. The backgrounds will be helpful for studying in our laboratory.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
In our laboratory, the students will operate various equipment. The operation is considered based on principles and logical thinking.
Therefore, with understanding and performing the operations, the students will learn the principles and logical thinking way. Also since inexperimental studies there are lots of troubles/problems, sometimes it is difficult to obtain expected results and scheduled progress as well.
However, by analyzing the troubles/problems and the results with cooperation with other members, the students will pay their own efforts
to obtain more good results, and finally will learn problem discovering ability and problem solving ability.
【Job category of graduates】Electronic Devices/Materials, Electrical/Precision Machinery, Communication/Information Technology

Research outline
The information technology supportedby the electronics is based on controllingelectric charge. The spintronics is controlling not only electric charge but also
spin direction for the future information
Fig. 1．Spin-FET
technology. In the IEEE International Roadmap for Devices and Systems (IRDS), the spintronic devices are ranked as important next-generation devices. The most typical spintronic device using a semiconductor (SC) is spin field-effecttransistor (spin-FET), which consists of a SC channel having large spin-orbit coupling (InAs, InGaAs, InSb, InGaSb etc.) and ferromagnetic metal (FM) electrodes (Fig. 1). By using SC nanowire(NW) as the channel, spin relaxation caused by the spin-orbit coupling and elastic scattering is
expected to be suppressed in the spin-FET. According to the background, we investigate NW-FM
hybrid structures for spintronic applications.

Fig. 4. Electrochemical deposited core/shell NWs

Fig. 5 MnAs/InAs hybrid structure(3) Electrical characterization and analysis

We also carry out electrical characterization
and analysis of fabricated NW-FM hybrid
structures at low temperatures under magnetic fields by using cryostats with superconducting magnets. By non-local resistanceFig. 6. Non-local measurement
measurements under in-plane magnetic fields (Fig. 6), we can obtain the information of spin
injection, transport, and detection. Our final aim is the fabrication of spin-FETs which have notbeen realized yet in the world.

Key publications(1) Formation of SC NW structures

We investigate top-down and bottom-up formation of SC NWs. In the top-down method, we
process high-quality SC heterojunctions by using
electron beam lithography and etching technique Fig. 2. Wire channel and point contact by top-down methods(Fig. 2). In this case, the challenges for coherent spin transport are optimization of the edge
shape and suppression of the etching damage.
In the bottom-up method, we use molecularFig. 3. NWs by bottom-up methods
beam epitaxy on masked substrates (Fig. 3). In
this case, it is difficult to utilize heterojunctions, however, it is possible to achieve fine shape andsize of NWs by optimized growth conditions.

1. S. Komatsu, M. Akabori: “Spin-filter device using Zeeman effect with realistic channel and structure parameters” Jpn. J. Appl. Phys., Vol. 63, pp. 02SP14-1-5 (2024).
2. Md. T. Islam, Md. F. Kabir, M. Akabori: “Low-temperature grown MnAs/InAs/MnAs double
heterostructure on GaAs (111)B by molecular beam epitaxy” Jpn. J. Appl. Phys., Vol. 63, pp.
01SP40-1-5 (2024).
3. K. Teramoto, R. Horiguchi, W. Dai, Y. Adachi, M. Akabori, S. Hara: “Tailoring Magnetic Domains
and Magnetization Switching in CoFe Nanolayer Patterns with Their Thickness and Aspect Ratio
on GaAs (001) Substrate” Physica Status Solidi B, Vol. 259, pp. 2100519-1-9 (2022).
4. D. Q. Tran, Md. E. Islam, K. Higashimine, M. Akabori: “Self-catalyst growth and characterizationof wurtzite GaAs/InAs core/shell nanowires” J. Crystal Growth, Vol. 564, pp. 126126-1-7 (2021).

Equipment(2) Formation of SC/FM hybrid structures

We also investigate electrochemical process of SC (ZnO) / FM (Ni or Co) core/shell NW formation (Fig. 4) and molecular beam epitaxial growth of SC (InAs) / FM (MnAs) hybrid structureformation (Fig. 5). In these methods, continuous interface formation between SC and FM is possible. Therefore, it is also expected that spin injection efficiency from FM to SC becomes higher.

Common-use deposition system (Molecular Beam Epitaxy, Atomic Layer Deposition, Evaporation, Sputter)，Commonuse fabrication system (Electron Beam Lithography, Gas Field Ion Source Focus Ion Beam, Reactive Ion Etching），
Common-use measurement system (Device Analyzer, Hall Effect Measurement System, Magnetic Property Measurement System) Electrochemical deposition system，Lock-in measurement system，Super conducting magnet system

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://www.jaist-akabori-lab.com/

In our laboratory, we carry out experimental study from formation to characterization/analysis of materials/devices using various
equipment. The students are divided into teams by topics, and are asked to have daily team meeting. The staffs join weekly
laboratory meeting to grow up communication/presentation/judging skill. Also in the meeting, reading a book and/or paper iscarried out to grow up basic scholastic ability and to increase professional knowledge on solid state physics.

18

AN Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：AN Toshu toshuan＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］nano spin science, spintronics, nano MRI［Keywords］quantum sensing, diamond NV center, magnetic resonance imaging,spin waves, scanning probe microscopy, laser confocal microscopy

Quantum spin dynamics;
sensing, control, and imaging
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Basic knowledge of physics, condensed matter physics, and electrical engineering. Diligence to master a skill, and will to challenge to newthings.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
The objective of this laboratory is detection, control and imaging of spin dynamics at nanoscale. Spin physics such as magnetic resonance,and spin current based on quantum mechanics are explored, in ferromagnetic, antiferromagnetic, and paramagnetic materials, at nanoscale.
For nanoscale spin sensing, nitrogen vacancy (NV) center in diamond is used, and combined with confocal microscope and atomic force
microscope. Technical skills of electrical engineering for microwaves, optics, and scanning probe microscope are developed.

【Job category of graduates】Manufacturing, analyzing, and development and research work of electronics and materials related companies

Research outline
We focus on study of sensing “spin dynamics” in magnetic materials and its control
at nanoscale. We explore novel phenomena related to spin dynamics and extract
fundamental physics behind for the application to the spin device and the magnetic
sensor device. For this purpose, highly sensitive and high-resolution spatial magnetic sensing and imaging methods are developed (Fig. 1).

Fig. 3, spin conversion from spin wave to NV center(3) Development of scanning NV center spin sensing probe

Fig. 1, Spins in electron and nuclei, spin resonance and spin current
Fig. 4, scanning NV center spin sensing probe combined with AFM(1) Nanoscale magnetic field sensing using nitrogen-vacancy center in diamond

Recently, nitrogen vacancy center (NV center) in diamond crystal is attracting muchattention for utilizing it as a spin sensor (Fig. 2), since spin state existing in a combination of a carbon defect and nitrogen indiamond named as nitrogen-vacancy
center (NV center) was demonstrated to be detected through fluorescence measurement (Gruber and Wrachtup, et al., Science, 276, 2012 (1997)).
Interestingly, this optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) can be used forsensing spins existing around (Fig. 3). Especially, making a NV center as a scanningspin imaging probe (Fig. 4).

Key publications
1. Yuta Kainuma, Kunitaka Hayashi, Chiyaka Tachioka, Mayumi Ito, Toshiharu Makino, Norikazu Mizuochi, and Toshu An “Scanning diamond NV
center magnetometer probe fabricated by laser cutting and focusedion beam milling” Journal of Applied Physics 130, 243903 (2021)
2. Dwi Prananto, Yuta Kainuma, Kunitaka Hayashi, Norikazu Mizuochi,
Ken-ichi Uchida, and Toshu An “Probing Thermal Magnon Current
Mediated by Coherent Magnon via Nitrogen-Vacancy Centers in Diamond” Phys. Rev. Applied 16, 064058 (2021).
3. D. Kikuchi, D. Prananto, K. Hayashi, A. Laraoui, N. Mizuochi, M. Hatano, E. Saitoh, Y. Kim, C. A. Meriles, T. An, Long-distance excitation of
nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond via surface spin waves, Applied
Physics Express, 10, 103004 1-4 (2017)

Fig. 2, NV center in diamond, and its magnetic resonance signal

Equipment(2) Long-distance excitation of NV center via surface spin waves

We succeeded to excite NV center by spin waves; collective emotion of spins excitedfrom 3.6 millimeter distance [1]. This will be new system to study interactions of spins.

Teaching policy

Home-made diamond NV center-based spin sensing apparatus,
based on confocal microscopy, and atomic force microscopy.

［Website］URL：https://www.an-laboratory.com/english-home/

In our laboratory, spin dynamics is studied, to apply the obtained new insights to “spintroncs” and “nano magnetic resonanceimaging” (nano-MRI) fields. Development of unique and ultra-sensitive, and high-resolution experimental system will be performed. For this purpose, it requires a deep knowledge of material science, freewheeling thinking, and ability to solve problem,
and we will have a mutual discussion every day to develop skills of each person.

19

HAMADA Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：HAMADA Tsutomu t-hamada＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Soft matter, Membrane biophysics［Keywords］Soft matter, Artificial cell, Biological membrane,
Liposome, Phase separation, Molecular robotics

Dynamics of artificial cell membranes
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Basic skills of biochemical experiments, and interest in artificial cell membranes.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
1.Experimental skills of artificial cell membranes
2.Physical chemistry of soft matter
3.Operation of optical microscopes
4.Reading and understanding of scientific journals【Job category of graduates】Post-doc, Chemicals, Machinerythat membrane tension can induce phase separation in homogeneous membranes. The study may provide insight into the biophysics of bilayer phase organization under tension, which is an
intrinsic mechanical property of membranes.

Research outline
Living cells are a form of self-assembled soft matter. Lipid bilayer
membranes are essential components of living organisms. We i)
construct artificial lipid vesicles which produce cellular dynamics,
such as endocytosis and autophagy, and ii) elucidate the association of biological and nonbiological nano-materials on membranesurfaces.

1. Photo manipulation

We develop a novel system for photocontrol of dynamics of lipid vesicles through the use of a photosensitive molecule. We
achieved membrane dynamics: i) triggering of lateral phase segregation, ii) budding vesicular transformation, iii) pore opening
through the stabilization of bilayer edge, and iv) membrane fusion.
The study could lead to a better understanding of the mechanismof membrane dynamics in living cells and may also see wider applications, such as in drug delivery and biomimetic material design.

Figure: Photo-induced fusion of lipid vesicles. (Langmuir 2017)

Key publications

2. Interaction with colloids

We investigate the lateral localization and dynamical motion of
nano/microparticles within a membrane interface. We found thatlateral heterogeneity in the membrane mediates the partitioning of
nano/microparticles in a size-dependent manner. The dependenceof particle diffusion on the association state was also revealed. The
study may lead to a better understanding of the basic mechanismsthat underlie the association of nanomaterials within a cell surface.

1. “Photo-induced fusion of lipid bilayer membranes” Y. Suzuki, etal., Langmuir, 33, 2671 (2017).
2. “Size-dependent partitioning of nano/micro-particles mediatedby membrane lateral heterogeneity” T. Hamada, et al., J. Am.
Chem. Soc., 134, 13990 (2012).
3. “Domain dynamics of phase-separated lipid membranes undershear flow” T. Hamada et al., Soft Matter, 18, 9069 (2022).

3. Mechanical response

We study a systematic analysis of lateral phase separation under
membrane tension. We applied osmotic pressure directed toward
the outside of vesicles to induce membrane tension. Microscopic
observations clarified the shifts in phase structures within bilayer
membranes with change in tension and temperature. We foundTeaching policy

Equipment
Laser scanning microscope
Optical microscope［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/hamada/english.html

We aim to find novel phenomena of lipid vesicles to explore new possibilities of the membrane. Through research activities, wewould like you to acquire skills with which you can solve a problem by using basic knowledge, and to experience pleasure oflearning a thing with curiosity.

20

HIRATSUKA Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：HIRATSUKA Yuichi yhira＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Protein engineering, Mechanical engineering, Nano-biotechnology, Biophysics［Keywords］Molecular robotics, bioMEMS, Molecular motors,
Genetical engineering

Micro-Mechanical Devices Poweredby Motor Proteins
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Basic knowledge of biochemistry, biology and protein science or mechanical engineering, and broad intellectual curiosity.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory* Protein engineering and skill of genetic engineering* Micro-fabrication (photo-lithography, soft-lithography, etc.)* Protein preparation and biochemical analysis* Operation of optical microscopes* Development of simple software for microscope and other devices【Job category of graduates】Manufacturer in chemical, mechanical or IT company, etc.

3) Micro-rotary motor powered by bacteria or motor proteins

Research outline

We also developed micro-rotary motor driven by living bacterial
or motor proteins. This ATP or glucose-driven rotary motor has aunique feature compared with conventional electronical motors.

Living organisms have developed diverse functions through evolution overa long period of time. Some functions are related to mobility, including
muscle contraction, bacteria’ s swimming and cell division. Nanometer
proteins called motor proteins are integrated into motion assemblies withdimensions ranging from the micrometer-scale (bacteria) to the meter-scale (muscle). A motor protein is a molecular machine that converts
chemical energy into dynamic force with great efficiency. This is an excellent property that conventional artificial motors do not have. In our laboratory, we are developing biohybrid micro-mechanical devices integrating
protein engineering and micro-fabrication technology.

1) Printable artificial muscle built from motor proteins

We are developing printable artificial muscle which can be induced
the hierarchical self-assembly of motor proteins into an artificial
muscle by spatially selected illumination, that can be integrated
into engineered systems. The artificial muscle opens the possibilityof 3D printing of micro/soft robot built from protein molecules.

Key publications
1. Takahiro Nitta, Yingzhe Wang, Zhao Du, Keisuke Morishima & Yuichi Hiratsuka A printable active network actuator built from an engineered biomolecular motor Nature Materials 20, 1149–1155 (2021)
2. Susumu Aoyama, Masahiko Shimoike, and Yuichi Hiratsuka Self-organized optical device driven by motor proteins Proc. Nati. Acad.
Sci. (PNAS) 110, 16408-16413 (2013).
3. Y. Hiratsuka, M. Miyata, T. Tada and T. Q.P. Uyeda, Micro-rotary motor powered by bacteria, Proc. Nati. Acad. Sci. (PNAS) 103, 1361813623 (2006).

2) Optical device driven by motor proteinsWe developed an optical device driven by motor protein, whichmimicking a molecular system of fish pigment cell, melanophore.

Equipment
Photo-lithography and microfabrication devices,
Leaser lithography equipment
Protein purification and analysis devices
Fluorescence microscope
Fermentor, etc.

Teaching policy［Website］URL：http://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/hiratsuka/

We are challenging to develop a novel bio-hybrid micro-mechanical device integrating protein engineering and micro mechanicalengineering. To achieve this, we encourage students to get a broad knowledge and flexible ideas and enjoy the research.

21

HO Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：HO Anh Van van-ho＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Intelligent robotics［Keywords］s o f t r o b o t i c s , s o f t r o b o t i c h a n d s , s o f t s e n s o r,morphological computation, bio-inspired robots

Utilization of materials softness indevelopment of novel robotic mechanisms
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
We are looking for potential students who have commitment in doing research at high level, good communication skill, team-work spirit. We particularly encourage students to be active
in search for research questions and finding solutions. Students who have background in mechanics, materials science, mechatronics, informatics are encouraged to join our laboratory.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
In our lab, we focus on new know-hows on development of soft robotic mechanisms, such as soft sensors, soft robotic hands, bio-inspired
mechanisms. Students will have chance to learn how to design mechatronic systems using soft, flexible materials for specific applications
that common rigid mechanisms cannot implement.

【Job category of graduates】Graduate students in lab are expected to design novel mechanisms, modelling physical phenomenon, conducting experiments, data analysis, and writing papers
ic gripper/hand with contact feedback forgrasping delicate objects. Each finger has amultilayered structure, consisting of a main
structure and sensing elements. The gripping energy of the fingers is generated fromthe elastic energy of the pre-stretched softer layers, and controlled by simple tendon
strings pulled/released by a single actuation.
In addition, the hand includes a soft sensing elements for the detection of contact states with objects.

Research outline
Our Laboratory aims to answer emerging needs of the society
by proposals of novel robotic systems, ranging from fabricationof sensors, actuators, and intelligence. We particularly focus on
dynamic investigation of nature phenomena to find out the underlying, dominating mechanisms that could then give hints to fabrication of novel structures.
Ideas are shaped under the light of novel technologies with integration of scientific methods, then integrated in robotic systems
with specific applications. Results obtained in this process could
be inversely utilized to understand the natures.

3) Bio-inspired mechanisms:

Nature is a great source of hints for development of bio-inspired
robots. For example, we studied underlying physics of the wet adhesion mechanism of tree-frog’s toes, and created a micro-structured
soft pad for enhancement of contact force with adhesion in wet
environment.

Key publications
1) Fabric Sensor with Proximity
and Tactile Sensing:

1. J. Bernth, Van Anh Ho & Hongbin Liu, Morphological computation in haptic sensation and interaction: from nature to robotics,
Advanced Robotics, Vol. 32, Issue 7, pp. 340-362, 2018
2. Van Anh Ho et al., Wrin’Tac: Tactile Sensing System with Wrinkle’s Morphological Change, IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics, Vol. 13, Issue 5, pp. 2496-2506, 2017
3. Van Anh Ho and Shinichi Hirai, Design and Analysis of a SoftFingered Hand with Contact Feedback, IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters (RA-L), Vol 2, Issue 2, pp. 491-498, April, 2017.

Human-in-the-loop task involving
soft contact has become common
in robotic application, especially inphysical human-robot interaction.
We attempt to fabricate a soft interface (or a robotic skin system)completely constructed from fabrics and soft materials that can sense both proximity and applied
force from human’s touch.

Equipment

2) Soft robotic hand:

3D- printer, NC machine, 6-dof industrial robot arm, milling cutter
machine, 6-dof force/torque sensor, vacuum chamber

We proposed a novel approach to the fabrication of a soft robot-

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/vanho/index-e.html

Students will independently conduct research in collaboration with other members in the laboratory. Seminar is taken place one
time a week, but meeting with supervisor can be setup any time upon demand. The supervisor will strictly follow the student’s
progress in research, and students must follow the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Action) cycle in research implementation.
The supervisor will help students select suitable career path.

22

JI

Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：JI Yonghoon ji-y＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Robotics, sensor data processing［Keywords］Mobile robot, robot vision, environmental sensing,
SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping)

Pioneering Technology for Intelligent Environmental
Sensing Using Unmanned Mobile Robot
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
To have basic knowledge of mathematics such as linear algebra and probability theory, and the general concepts of robotics, instrumentation engineering, and machine learning would be desirable. Highly motivatedstudents with curiosity are welcome. In order to implement ideas on robotic systems, it is advantageous if students are accustomed to creating simple hardware and programming languages, especially C++ or Python.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Robotics is a special field in which various areas such as mechanical, electronic, computer, control, and instrumentation engineering areseamlessly integrated. Thus, SI (system integration) technology is very important. Depending on the specific research theme, students will
be able to acquire a wide range of engineering knowledge. In addition, since we are actively conducting research that is applicable to realsites, students can learn the ability to apply state-of-the-art technology to various problems in our society.

【Job category of graduates】Manufacturing industry, IT industry, academia, etc.

We conduct various research required for real-world applications throughrobot technology. Specifically, we analyze data from the various sensors
mounted on the unmanned mobile robot and extract shape informationor physical properties distributed in the environment such as material
information to utilize them to solve various problems in our society.

research focuses on generating a 3D material distribution map using theacoustic camera under a waterfront development environment where
human cannot directly access, such as construction and reclamation
projects related to airports, ports, and submarine tunnels, etc. Providing
the underwater map information to the relevant decision-making organizations, it is expected to be utilized for the future plan of the waterfront
development.

1. Semantic Map Building by Exploration Robot in Disaster Area

3. Autonomous Mobile Robot Navigation

Research outline

Navigation technology for autonomous mobile robots has been intensively studied in recent decades, and many technologies have alreadybeen put into practical use. Our goal is to improve the navigation performance of autonomous mobile robots based on measurement data fromvarious next-generation sensors.

We develop a semi-autonomous mobile robot system thatbuilds a wide-area survey map
including semantic information
to carry out damage monitoring in disaster areas. To thisend, sensor fusion technology
is developed for multiple types
Fig.1 SMLO loop-based survey map building.
of sensors mounted on the robot to build map information including various physical properties of theenvironment. Each elemental technology as shown in Fig. 1 is developedin cooperation with other universities. The semantic survey map can beused for the prevention of secondary disasters and recovery plans.

Key publications
1. Y. Wang, Y. Ji, H. Woo, Y. Tamura, H. Tsuchiya, A. Yamashita, and H. Asama,“Acoustic Camera-based Pose Graph SLAM for Dense 3-D Mapping in Underwater Environments,” IEEE Journal of Oceanic Engineering, 46(3), PP. 829847, 2021.
2. Y. Ji, Y. Tanaka, Y. Tamura, M. Kimura, A. Umemura, Y. Kaneshima, H. Murakami, A. Yamashita, and H. Asama, “Adaptive Motion Planning Based on Vehicle
Characteristics and Regulations for Off-Road UGVs,” IEEE Transection on Industrial Informatics, 15(1), pp. 599-611, 2019.
3. Y. Ji, A. Yamashita, and H. Asama, “Automatic Calibration of Camera Sensor
Network Based on 3D Texture Map Information,” Robotics and Autonomous
Systems, 87(1), pp. 313-328, 2017.

2. Underwater Sensing Using Acoustic Camera

Recently, as shown in Fig. 2, the development of acoustic cameras,
which can generate high-resolution images in 3D space, even in turbid
water, has facilitated our understanding of underwater situations. This
type of sonar sensors is relatively small and can easily be
mounted on an underwater
robot. Moreover, it can analyze
the properties of the material
distributed in the environment
based on measured data. This Fig.2 Underwater imaging using acoustic camera.

Equipment
Wheeled and crawler type mobile robots
Sensors for environmental measurement, such as LiDAR, range
sensor, optical camera, thermography, acoustic camera, etc.

Teaching policy［Website］URL：http://robotics.jaist.ac.jp/

We aim to cultivate human resources who can contribute to society through robot technology. To this end, it is important to understand the requirement in our society and relevant technological trends. Therefore, we are carrying out research topics applicable to real sites. Next, all students are encouraged to make presentations at domestic and international conferences and write
journal papers. Finally, students will improve the following abilities: teamwork, communication, presentation skills through regularmeetings in our laboratory as well as collaboration with other universities and companies.

23

MIYAKO Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：MIYAKO Eijiro e-miyako＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Bioengineering; Materials Chemistry; Nanotechnology; Nanomedicine［Keywords］Nanorobot; Nanobio; Nanomaterials, Bio-functional
materials; Biotechnology; Biomimetics

Creation of Game-Changing-Technology by
Functional Materials and Bioengineering
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Special skills and background are not required at the beginning because you would be trained step-by-step after joining to the lab. We arelooking for the students who really want to be a real scientist and an international first grade researcher and eager to learn something withflexible mind, cooperativeness, much curiosity, ambitious spirit to explore true natural science and new technology in various biologicalfields such as medical and agriculture with us all together.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Our research is fully multidisciplinary works and a sort of polyhedron prepared by our thinking and learning. Thus, you can learn anything
if you want, for instance, organic syntheses, biochemistry, genetic engineering, skills for cellular and animal experiments, nanomaterials,
medical device, robot and so on. Let’s get started with us right now to carve up your own unique research by something you learned up to
now!

Research outline
Research interests of MIYAKO laboratory are in the area of bioengineering, materials chemistry, nanotechnology and nanomedicine.
For example, using various physicochemical properties of nanomaterials, we challenge to develop an innovative nano-bio systemthat can monitor and control biological activities and health conditions at nanoscale level (Figure 1). For this objective, our work
is also focused on the synthesis of high-quality “nanorobots”, theengineering of their surface, and their assembly and consolidation
into functional nanorobot to the aforesaid target biological applications, as well as to develop fundamental understanding of structure-property relationships.
We are also concentrating on creating nature-inspired materials
and robotic engineering as game-changing technology in the fieldof food and agricultural industries (Figure 2). Our research is always based on the interdisciplinary nature with a lot of study fields
such as chemistry, physics, biology, material science, and engineering etc..

Figure 1. Schematic illustration of a Figure 2. Image of a bio-inspired robotic
representative nanorobot for future bee for artificial pollination.
innovative nanobiosystems.

Key publications
1. Yue Yu, Xi Yang, Sheethal Reghu, Sunil C. Kaul, Renu Wadhwa,
Eijiro Miyako*, “Photothermogenetic inhibition of cancer stemness by near-infrared-light-activatable nanocomplexes” Nature
Communications 11, 4117 (2020).
2. Svetlana A. Chechetka, Yue Yu, Xu Zhen, Manojit Pramanik,
Kanyi Pu, Eijiro Miyako*, “Light-driven liquid metal nanotransformers for biomedical theranostics” Nature Communications 8,15432 (2017).
3. Eijiro Miyako*, Kenji Kono, Eiji Yuba, Chie Hosokawa, Hidenori
Nagai, Yoshihisa Hagihara “Carbon nanotube-liposome supramolecular nanotrains for intelligent molecular-transport systems”
Nature Communications 3, 1226 (2012).

Past Representative Research Themes

1.Bioelectronic Implant Nanodevice
2.Liquid Metal Nanotrans former
3.Supramolecular Nanotrain
4.Nanomodulator for Cellular Stimulation
5.Photothermic Regulation of Gene Expression
6.Light and Magnetic Field-Driven Nanotransporter
7.Materially Engineered Artificial Pollinator (Robo bee)Equipment

They are just representatives. Our ultimate dream is to create thebest science and technology in the world. Why not make an innovative technology and explore your own cool research field withus?

Laser, fluorescent microscopy, UV-Vis-NIR spectrometer, fluorescent spectrometer etc.

Teaching policy［Website］URL：https://e-miyakolab.amebaownd.com/

Here is English-based laboratory. We are willing to do my best as much as possible for your future scientific career and share with them the experimental analytical skills,
theability to think policy
independently, express one’s self logically, the capability to learn outside the traditional classroom setting and so on through discussion, journal club,
Teaching
annual meeting and conference. Especially, we will commit to the students, who would like to pursue a PhD, to enable them to find a research career in industry and academia by providing a cutting-edge and international research atmosphere with a lot of our collaborators all the world. Besides, our core-time of the laboratory is from 9am
to 17pm except for one-hour break. Herein, we expect you must efficiently, effectively and speedy carry out works. Reflash after 17pm and holidays. In other words, study
hard and play hard. Miyako laboratory will also actively develop and promote people from a variety of backgrounds who differ in terms of experience, knowledge, sensibility,
perspective, cultural background, and values, and in so doing will not discriminate based on ethnicity, nationality, gender, religion, age, social position, or disability.

24

NISHIMURA Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：NISHIMURA Shun s_nishim＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Catalyst chemistry, Solid catalyst, Alloy catalyst, Biomass transformation［Keywords］New energy sources, Metal nanoparticle, Solid acid/basecatalyst, Catalyst design, Mechanistic study

Development of new solid catalyst process
Challenge the issues on energy & resources!
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Basic calculation skill, Careful data processing capacity, and Safety consciousness are necessary for participation. Some experiences on Physical chemistry, Organic chemistry,
Inorganic chemistry, Analytic chemistry and/or Catalyst chemistry would be a great help for your studying. We welcome your aggressive curiosity and inquiring minds.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Development of new solid catalyst process is constructed with a variety steps: Catalyst design → Catalyst preparation & Conditioning →Performance evaluation & Conditioning → Characterizations (Kinetics, XRD, TEM-EDS, N2 ads/des, FT-IR, UV-vis, Raman, XPS, XAFSetc) → Modeling/Hypothesis → Verification → Scope. Moreover, there is more than one crucial factor on the target catalysis. Accordingly,
following the step to reveal the role of catalyst, the student would learn the various analytical methods and skills to combine the many
aspects of data.
【Job category of graduates】Chemical and material suppliers in the area of car, plastic, polymers and surfactant manufactures.

[Development of solid catalyst assisted biomass transformations]

Research outline

On the basis of the carbon neutral concept, the biomass utilization is a one of important approaches to fabricate sustainable
society. However, low life-cycle assessment (LCA) is an issue forthis transformation. To accelerate the green technology, development of highly-efficient catalytic transformation process has been
investigating. In previous our reports, we proposed the bio-fuelproduction process with an atmospheric hydrogen gas [Catal. Today 2014], the production of highly value-added chemicals frominedible biomass resource [ex. ChemSusChem 2013, ACS Omega
2018, Catal Commun 2019, Catalysts 2019], and the highly-active
acid-base catalyzed processes [ex. BCSJ 2012, ChemSusChem
2014, CS&T 2016].

Catalyst technology has been a key role on manufacturing in ourlife. Thus, development of highly-functional catalytic process would
lead drastic impacts on our society towards more green and sustainable styles. For instance, the development of catalytic ammonia (NH3) generation from nitrogen (N2) in air process had opened
a lot of new avenues to supply N-incorporating compounds. In
particular, after this achievement, chemical fertilizer and dynamite
manufacturings were contributed to the growth of population andfacilitation of industrial technology [Noble Prize for Chemistry in1918].
The targets of our laboratory are i) new catalyst design on the basis of conventional transformation skills on fossil resources, and ii)
construction of biomass-based utilization process over solid catalyst, in order to fabricate a low carbon society.

Key publications[Metal-supported catalyst: New design and Mechanistic
studies]

1. S. D. Le, S. Nishimura: Selective hydrogenation of succinic acidto gamma-butyrolactone with PVP-capped CuPd catalysts. Catal.
Sci. Technol. 12 (2022) 1060.
2. K. Anjali, S. Nishimura: Efficient Conversion of Furfural to Succinic Acid using Cobalt-Porphyrin based Catalysts and Molecular
Oxygen. J. Catal. 428 (2023) 115182
3. X. Li, S. Nishimura: Synthesis of 5-Hydroxymethy-2-furfurylamine
via Reductive Amination of 5-Hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde with
Supported Ni-Co Bimetallic catalysts. Catal. Lett. 154 (2024)
237.

The catalytic performance of metal-supported catalyst; i.e. active
metal centers supported on inorganic/organic solid surface, was attributed to i) electronic state and shape of the active metal center,ii) environment around the active metal center, and iii) properties
of support. Studying on the relationships among these factors byusing fine/uniform as-prepared metal-supported catalysts reveals
the crucial factors for the target reaction. In previous our reports,
we found the highly-reactive alloy-supported catalysts [ex. CS&T
2013, ACS Catal 2013, CheSusChem 2015, ACS sustainable
Chem Eng 2019], the organic-linkage assisted metal-supported catalysis [ex. JPCC 2014, Asian JOC 2017] and the specific support
designs for high reactivity or stability [ex. J. Mater. Chem. A 2014,
Catal Lett 2021].

Teaching policy

Equipment
Evaluation of catalyst performance: GC, HPLC, GC-TOFMS, FTICR-MS, NMR for liquid, etc
Characterization of catalyst: XRD, Gas Adsorption/desorption, SEM/TEM, XPS, NMR for solid, FT-IR, TPR/TPD,
pulse method, etc
For a specific elucidation methods: Out-side institutes（ex. KEK-PF, SPring-8）for in-situ/ex-situ XAFS analysis.

［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/~s_nishim/index.html

Labo meeting for introduction of previous papers and/or discussion of recent data is held in one time per two weeks. Core-time
is not determined, however, the students have to pay attentions to their healthy/regular life in the labo. Presentations in domestic/international conference are recommended.
We hope more than one paper/proceeding reports would be published according to your achievement for all members.

25

OKEYOSHI Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：OKEYOSHI Kosuke okeyoshi＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］polymer chemistry, photochemistry, soft matter［Keywords］polymeric gels, water, geometry of soft materials, photofunctional materials, energy conversion

Polymeric organization inspired
from natural environment and biomaterials
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
We are seeking individuals who have experience or fundamental knowledge about polymer science, physical chemistry, material science,
photochemistry, and soft matter. In particular, individuals who can handle challenges, and are innately curious and persevering are encouraged to apply.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Academic subjects: Polymer science, photochemistry, soft matter science, colloidal science, surface chemistry, geometry, and non-linear
science. Additional skills: Logical thinking and understanding, experiment designing, scientific verification, high-quality presentations, ability
to communicate in English.

【Job category of graduates】Manufacture of materials, healthcare industry, etc.
slight changes in mechanical energy, can change shapes and patterns, e.g., spatial/temporal self-similarity. These patterns can beused in medicine as novel biomimetic materials that can efficiently
adapt to the external environment.
Based on these viewpoints, the ultimate goal is to determine thelaws regulating these phenomena and natural beauty. In summary,
we are investigating one of the biggest enigmas of natural science,i.e., why does life create patterns?

Research outline
Many beautiful patterns are visible in nature. For example, living organisms are created via self-organization from small molecules. Thisis derived not only from the material, but is also the result of strong
environmental influence. In fact, life has evolved to adapt to changing environments, resulting in diverse spatial patterns and rhythms.
Furthermore, studies aimed at creating patterns by regulating thephysical environment using artificially synthesized molecules havebeen performed in antiquity. However, synthetic molecules are
seldom compatible with medical or industrial applications, and may
not coexist in natural environments. In contrast, in our latest study,
we demonstrated that natural polysaccharides can reconstruct hierarchical patterns from water. Hence, when we understand “how”
and “why” patterns appear, we can acquire novel material designs
that can fulfill the criteria of biocompatibility and environmental
adaptability.

Key publications

1. DRY & WET: Self-organization of natural polysaccharides

We are investigating the mechanism via which polysaccharides reproduce geometric patterns in centimeter scale in vitro. In particular, by controlling physicochemical conditions, we are exploring thelaw of spatial recognition exhibited in polysaccharides under dry
environment. In a non-equilibrium environment, macromolecules
are organized in both micro and macro forms. The fact that actual
living organisms survive in dry environments while maintaining
their body moisture could be critical for understanding biopolymer
evolution.

1. DRY & WET: meniscus splitting from a mixture of polysaccharides and water. Okeyoshi K, Polymer Journal 52, 1185 (2020).
2. Vapor-sensitive materials from polysaccharide fibers with self-assembling twisted microstructures. Budpud K, Okeyoshi K, Okajima MK, Kaneko T, Small 16, 2001993 (2020).
3. Polymeric design for electron transfer in photo induced hydrogengeneration through a coil-globule transition. Okeyoshi K, Yoshida
R, Angewandte Chemie International Edition 58, 7304 (2019).

2. Pattern control of soft materials

Optical microscopes, optical spectrometer, polarized light devices,image analysis devices, fluorescence measurement instruments,
viscometer, densimeter, dynamic light scattering, electron microscopes, etc.

Equipment

Regardless of their origin (biological or synthetic), several types ofsoft materials can be morphologically controlled by stress at thematerials’ interface. Only small environmental differences, such as

Teaching policy［Website］https://sites.google.com/oke-acgroup.com/web

During the training period prior to working in society, we will support the selected candidate to expand his/her potentials to the best of our capacity. Our group provides a diverse environment both in terms of researchand culture. This is a priceless opportunity for constructing a versatile scientific personality. Based on the above-mentioned research objectives, the candidate will consciously pursue research on the following lines:
1.Develop the abilities of logical thinking and foresight.
2.Design and verify hypotheses through experiments and discussions.
3.Learn to use scientific language for public outreach purposes.

26

SHINOHARA Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor: SHINOHARA Ken-ichi shinoken＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Polymer Chemistry, Artificial-Life Function［Keywords］Nanomachine, Polymer Synthesis, AFM Video

Direct Observation of Single Molecule of a Polymer
Molecular Machine Driven by Thermal Fluctuations
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Basic knowledge of organic chemistry and polymer chemistry is necessary for research on functional polymer synthesis. Also, in single molecule imaging
research to analyze the structure and dynamics of single polymer chain, understanding of the mechanism of microscope equipment is required.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
The objective of our laboratory is to create novel nanomachine such as a molecular motor by a chiral helical π -conjugated polymer in an
organic media at room temperature. The members of this laboratory learn basic knowledge and technique of organic/polymer synthesis,
single-molecule imaging, computer simulation (all-atom MD), and design of molecular machines.

【Job category of graduates】Chemical companies, Electronics companies, Food-related companies, Public officials (teachers)

Research outline
Single-Molecule Imaging of a Polymer

Direct observation of a polymer chain deepens the understanding about its structure and function. The study of single polymer
chains was made possible after the scanning probe microscope(SPM) and the total internal reflection fluorescent microscope(TIRFM) had been developed. Our group succeeded in the direct
observation of the long-chain branch (LCB) structure in a low density polyethylene (LDPE), and the structural dynamics of a polymer chain in a functionalized styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) andan ethylene-propylene (EP) rubber measured by a fast-scanningatomic force microscope (FS-AFM). Single-molecule imaging of amacromolecular motion in a chiral helical polymer was achieved by
the FS-AFM, and the diffusion coefficient of each part of the polymer chain was measured. On the other hand, the photonic function of the light emission from a rigid-rod conjugated polymer wasmeasured using TIRFM at room temperature. The light-emission
from a single polymer chain as it slowly and dynamically changes
over a cycle lasting a few seconds has been successfully detectedusing TIRFM with a built-in spectroscope.

Scheme 1. Synthetic Route of a Chiral Helical Polymer












Fig. 1. SingleFig.
Molecular
Unidirectional
Processive
along
a Helical
Polymer
in a Non-aqueous
Media
Single Molecular
Unidirectional
ProcessiveMovement
Movement along
a Helical
Polymer
Chain inChaina Non-aqueousMedia

Key publications
1. K. Shinohara, S. Yasuda, G. Kato, M. Fujita, H. Shigekawa: Direct observation of thechiral quaternary structure in a π-conjugated polymer at room temperature, J. Am.
Chem. Soc. 123, 3619-3620 (2001); Editors’ Choice, Science 292, 15 (2001).
2. K. Shinohara, Y. Makida, T. Oohashi, and R. Hori: Single-Molecule Unidirectional
Processive Movement along a Helical Polymer Chain in Non-aqueous Medium,
Langmuir, 38 (40), 12173-12178 (2022).
3. K. Cheng, K. Shinohara, O. Notoya, M. Teraguchi, T. Kaneko, T. Aoki Synthesis andDirect Observation of Molecules of 2D Polymers: With High Molecular Weights,
Large Areas, Small Micropores, Solubility, Membrane Forming Ability, and High Oxygen Permselectivity, Small, 202308050 (2023).

A Polymer Molecular Motor

If a molecule can move unideirectionally using thermal fluctuation,a molecular motor having the function of substance transport andmorphological change is created. In our recent study, molecular
walking along a rail of a synthetic helical polymer (Scheme 1) was
discovered by AFM video imaging. This walk was unidirectional
processive movement in an organic solvent at room temperature(Fig.1).
This result is a breakthrough as the first step in order to create an
artificial life-function as a synthetic molecular motor driven by athermal fluctuation in non-aqueous media.

Teaching policy

Equipment
Fast-Scanning Atomic Force Microscope (FS-AFM), Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM), Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence Microscope (TIRFM),
NMR, Super Computer System for all-atom MD Simulation of a Polymer
Chain in Solvent, Analytical System of Single-Molecular Motion of a Polymer［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/shinohara/In the SHINOHARA laboratory, we instruct students to conduct research themes as their own, rather than passively studying.
Specifically, the supervisor will actively communicate with students, voluntarily perform experiments according to the student’s
abilities, and develop the ability to find and solve the scientific problems themselves. By repeating these processes, students areable to answer important questions such as what is scientific research, which in turn leads to awareness as future excellent researchers and engineers.

27TSUTSUI Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：TSUTSUI Hidekazu tsutsui＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］biophysics, neurophysiology, molecular & cell biology, bioengineering［Keywords］neuron, synapse, molecular sensor, next generationelectrophysiology, bio-imaging

Molecular sensors & devices for interfacingwith electrical activities in live cells.
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Background knowledge in brain science, molecular and cell biology, biophysics and/or electrical engineering may help to smoothly lunch a solid research project.
However, we support students with limited prior knowledge in the related subjects. We rather give a high importance to scientific motivations and intellectual curiosity.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Basic and advanced experimental techniques concerning molecular biology, electrophysiology, fluorescence imaging, and bio-engineering;Comprehensive understanding of principles underlying various cellular phenomena and their applications to biomedical science.

【Job category of graduates】Research and development in biomedical industry, manufacture, information technology
well as observation of the crystallization process and cellular responses. We aretrying to reveal general mechanism underlying intracellular protein crystallizations.
We also focus on interactions of fluoresce proteins with metal thin film and particles, and their potential applications to cell biology.

Research outline
We seek to develop molecular sensors and devices that permit precise spatiotemporal detections of dynamic functions in live cells. Our main focus is given toparallel measurements of cellular electrical activities.
Cellular electrical signal occurs as a voltage difference across cell membrane andrapidly propagates, playing essential roles in a variety of physiological functions.
Those include secretion, contraction and neural transmission. In particular, dynamic modulation of the flow of electrical signals in the neuron networks is thought tounderlie the neural function. In seeking to reveal its fundamental principles, oneof the most awaited techniques is the sensitive detection of spatiotemporal electrical activity in a complex network of excitable cells.

Figure 1.
(left) A hippocampal neuron expressing a fluorescence sensor for membrane
voltage.
(center) Simultaneous photometry and electrophysiological recordings.
(right) A SEM image of the prototype device for parallel interfacing of cells.

One on-going approach is a protein-based voltage probe that can be geneticallyencoded under the control of cell-type specific promoters. We investigate biophysical properties of membrane proteins that undergo voltage dependent structuraltransitions and feedback the knowledge to the design of robust voltage probes.
We are also interested in visualizing electrical phenomena in organelle membrane
as well as biomedical applications of the sensor technologies including the development of an efficient drug screen platform. Techniques used in this topic are theconventional molecular biology, electrophysiology, photometry, and fluorescenceimaging.

Key publications
1. Farha et al., Interface-specific mode of protonation-deprotonation
reactions underlies the cathodic modulation of fluorescence
protein emission. Appl. Phys. Express 13 (2020).
2. Farha et al., Electric-field control of fluorescence protein emissions at the metal-solution interface. Appl. Phys. Express 12(2019).
3. Tsutsui, H. et al., Improved detection of electrical activity with avoltage probe based on a voltage-sensing phosphatase. J. Physiol., 591, 4427- 4437 (2013).

By taking an advantage of the advanced facilities in the JAIST nanomaterial andtechnology center, we have launched a new project: innovative micro-fabrication
based electrophysiology combined with organic electronics. Techniques used inthis topic are micro-fabrications, electrical engineering, as well as molecular biology.

Equipment
fluorescence/luminescence live cell imaging systems
electrophysiology and photometry rigs
electrochemical analyzer
cell/tissue culture & molecular biology equipment
Sputtering system; SEM (JAIST common facilities)

Apart from these topics, we pursuit various curiosity-driven researches, mainly
focusing on fluoresce proteins. For example, we have developed a variant of coral
fluorescent protein that forms diffraction-quality crystals within mammalian cells.
This expression system allowed the direct determination of its crystal structure as

Teaching policy［Website］https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/tsutsui/wordpress/

Although research is basically driven by intellectual curiosity, the requisites are comprehensive understanding of related background, learning reliable experimental procedures as well as the ability to logically evaluate the observation. These will be emphasized in the early stage of laboratory work. Lab activities include a biweekly progress report presentation and journal club.
Students are also encouraged to read through a specified textbook to learn the related subjects and scientific culture.

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UEDA Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor: UEDA, Jumpei ueda-j＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Solid State Chemistry, Photochemistry［Keywords］Phosphor, Storage Phosphor, White-LED,
Optical thermometer, Optical Pressure Sensor

Development of Optically Functionalized Materials
Based on Electronic Structure and Local Coordination
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Motivation to improve yourself and to progress a research topic, to open a new scientific area through studying actively with your curiosityand discussing with other researchers is necessary. We respect your research background.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Our research topic includes material preparation, physical property evaluation and application study. You will acquire research planning,
reorganization of issues and logical thinking as basic capability, and wide knowledge and various technical skills in solid state chemistry andphotochemistry. Presentation skills also can be obtained through several research meetings.
Specific skills: Material preparation (powder, ceramics, transparent ceramics, glass, single crystal of inorganic compounds), Physical property
evaluation (XRD, XAS, basic optical measurements, luminescence lifetime, photoconductivity, VUV spectroscopy, measurements forstorage phosphors, high pressure measurement)【Job category of graduates】Chemical and material suppliers, manufactures of electric devices◆ Storage of light energy!

Research outline

Persistent phosphors can show contentious luminescence even after stopping
excitation source. We design persistentphosphors by controlling the photoinduced electron transfer process basedon the electronic structures of inorganic
compound with luminescence ions.

There are many luminescent materials and devices around us
such as white LED lighting, laser projectors, TV and smartphone
displays. These luminescent devices include inorganic phosphorswith luminescence center (rare earth and transition metal ions).
The optical properties of the phosphors vary greatly dependingon the type of luminescence center, its geometrical and chemical
coordination environment, and the electronic structure of the hostmaterial. Our research group investigate the factors to determine
the optical properties and design new optical functional materials.

◆ Sensor using luminescence!

The luminescence properties vary bytemperature and pressure. Thus, thephosphors can be used as optical thermometers and pressure sensors.

◆ Generation of while light!

◆ Other research topics

White LEDs and laser-excited white light sources consist of blue
LED (or laser) and visible phosphors. Recently, green and red
phosphors with a narrow luminescence band width for display application and non-quenching phosphors by high power laser excitation are studied. Through the elucidation of physical phenomena,
we strategically create phosphors with higher properties.

Photochromism, luminescence quenching, Mechano-luminescence, pressure induced phase transition

Key publications
1. Jumpei Ueda, Bull. Chem. Soc. Jpn. 94, 2807(2021)
2. Jumpei Ueda, Setsuhisa Tanabe, Opt. Mater. X 1, 100018 (2019)
3. Jumpei Ueda et al. J. Phys. Chem. C 119, 25003 (2015)

Equipment
Vacuum Gas Replacement Furnace, XRD,
Fluorescence spectrophotometer, Cryostat
Wavelength tunable OPO laser, Optical measurement system forstorage phosphors, Diamond anvil cell

Teaching policy
Our research group holds research meeting and journal club (introduction of state-of-the-art research) once a week, which canbe adjusted depending on the number of laboratory members. Core-time is 9 am to 5 pm. The research topic includes material
preparation, physical property evaluation and application. Thus, you learn wide knowledge and various technical skills in solidstate chemistry and photochemistry. Basically, all of laboratory members need to give a presentation in a domestic or international conference. We also recommend publishing the research results to an international journal as a first author or co-author.

29

YAMAGUCHI
Takumi Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：YAMAGUCHI Takumi takumi＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Biomolecular science, Biofunctional chemistry, Biophysical chemistry, Organic chemistry, Supramolecular chemistry［Keywords］Carbohydrate, Molecular recognition

Sweet Science: Analytical and applicative
research of bio-functional sugars
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Our research interests are in analyses of biomolecules, mainly carbohydrates, and creation of bio-inspired functional molecules. Althoughhaving basic knowledge of organic and biological chemistry as well as physicochemical background is preferable, the high motivation forchallenging and developing the new research field is primarily valued. We welcome students of drive!

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
Study of carbohydrates has been attracting considerable attention as a next task in various fields including drug development and medical
research. You address the task by learning and employing multidisciplinary knowledge and skills as in synthetic organic chemistry, analyticalchemistry and biotechnology. You will also improve the ability to promote projects based on creative ideas and logical thinking.
【Job category of graduates】Chemical and material industry
between synthetic chemistry and biomolecular science. The effective hybrid approaches have been enabling not only the establishment of dynamic systems mimicking nature and thus well-definedmodels for biophysical understanding, but also the creation of
those with highly advanced, integrated functions.

Research outline
1. Analysis of biomolecules

Carbohydrates play crucial roles in a variety of biological events
such as cell-cell communications. For example, many of proteinsin the living system are decorated with carbohydrate moieties,
which mediate molecular recognition processes. In addition, recent
evidence has demonstrated that carbohydrates on cell membranes
are targets for various proteins that are associated with serious diseases, e.g., Alzheimer’s disease and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Our
research seeks the underlying molecular basis for the function ofcarbohydrates, providing knowledge for the rational design of drugs
and biomolecular engineering that contribute towards a detailed
understanding of living systems.

Fig 2. Attachment of oligosaccharides to a spherical supramolecule provided
neoglycoclusers, which possess potential functional ability through multivalentinteractions.

Key publications
1. Delineating the dynamic conformations of oligosaccharides by combining molecular simulation and NMR spectroscopy, T. Yamaguchi, Trends Glycosci. Glycotechnol. 32, E93–E98,
2020.
2. Comprehensive characterization of oligosaccharide conformational ensembles with conformer classification by free-energy landscape via reproductive kernel Hilbert space, T. Watanabe, H.
Yagi, S. Yanaka, T. Yamaguchi, K. Kato, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 23, 9753–9760, 2021.
3. Experimental and computational characterization of dynamic biomolecular interaction systems involving glycolipid glycans, K. Kato, T. Yamaguchi, M. Yagi-Utsumi, Glycoconj. J. 39,
219–228, 2022.

Fig 1. We have developed a methodology to describe the dynamic structure ofoligosaccharides based on NMR techniques in conjunction with molecular dynamics
simulations.

2. Creation of bio-inspired molecules

Using the combination approaches based on the chemical designand hybridization of artificial molecules with biological materials
can generate unique molecular systems having the fundamental
functions of life. Toward controlling biological functions of oligosaccharides and expanding in their applications, we attempt to create artificial glycomolecules (neoglycoconjugates) through bridging

Teaching policy

Equipment
NMR spectrometer
Mass spectrometer
Computer cluster
Liquid chromatography system［Website］URL：https://www.jaist.ac.jp/ms/labs/t-yamaguchi/index.html

To design, create and utilize your own molecules is emphasized. We also aim to improve communication skills through research
activities, such as scientific discussions with colleagues in the lab and presentations of research results at academic conferences.

30

YAMAMOTO Lab.

E-mail：Associate Professor：YAMAMOTO Yuko S. yamayu＠jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］surface enhanced spectroscopy, quantum optics, catalysts［Keywords］Spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, surface enhanced spectroscopy, surfaceenhanced Raman scattering (SERS), tip-enhanced Raman scattering, nanomaterials

Exploring the nanoworld using
surface enhanced spectroscopy
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students“I love research activity!” “I enjoy scientific experiments!” “I love creating new materials!” “I want to improve the world with my great discovery!” At least one of these should apply to you because such motivations
are essential for starting researches in our lab. I teach you the knowledge necessary to make achievements and the method of learning new techniques. Students with grand ambitions are particularly welcome.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
The ability to open new horizons through your own efforts. This skill is of use in many areas of our life, but there are few opportunities
to learn it. I recommend you to have several skills in our lab: (1) sensitively perceive the present situation to forge your own path to new
possibilities, (2) an appropriate awareness of the present issues and possess the solving skills of these issues, (3) a high level of linguistic
ability, including presentation skills, communication skills, and written composition skills, (4) strong interpersonal skills to obtain funding
and build consensus. I support you as you learn these through advancing your research. I also support you in studying abroad or starting aventure business during or after your time in our laboratory.
【Job category of graduates】Chemistry manufacturers, start-ups, etc.
conventionally been considered to require the energy of ultraviolet light, have been realized withthe visible light using a new heterogeneous photocatalyst discovered in the early 2010s, andthis research is progressing globally to investigate the new phenomenon of such heterogeneous
photocatalysts.
In our lab, we focus on the photochemical reactions which occur on a surface of metal
nanoparticles with plasmon resonance, monitored by surface-enhanced Raman scattering with
irradiation of visible light.

Research outline
What actually happens in the world at a nanometer scale? We explore the “nanoworld” using
surface-enhanced spectroscopy. Generally speaking, spectroscopy makes us possible to obtainthe chemical composition of measuring targets with irradiating the laser light or other lightsources and careful analysis of the absorption, reflection and scattering of light. Surface-enhanced spectroscopy is a technique of dramatically increasing the intensity of the absorption,reflection and scattering of light using the surface of nanostructures which composed of freeelectron-rich metals such as silver or gold. This phenomenon enables us to measure the chemical composition of measuring targets at a very small scale – nanometer-order.
In our lab, we constructed an original surface-enhanced spectroscopic system which enable tomeasure even single molecule, so we believe there are great expectations from the aspects ofboth research and industrial applications.

2.Looking ahead to surface-enhanced Raman scattering

About 50 years have passed since the surface-enhanced Raman scattering effect was discovered in the 1970s. Although the mechanism of the surface-enhanced Raman scattering
phenomena is becoming increasingly deeply understood, there are mysteries that still remain.
Our lab focuses on these mysteries and explores the most advanced areas of surface-enhanced
Raman scattering. At the same time, we are working to discover new physical or chemical
phenomena that emerge from surface-enhanced Raman scattering and understand their mechanisms.
If you would like to see references or papers on research results, please feel free to email to
Yamamoto (yamayu＠jaist.ac.jp) or visit Yamamoto’s office. I will give you copies of our papers.

Key publications
1. Judith Langer, Yuko S. Yamamoto et al, “Present and Future of Surface
Enhanced Raman Scattering”, ACS Nano, 14, 28-117, 2020.
2. Yuko S. Yamamoto*, Yuya Kayano, Yukihiro Ozaki et al, “SingleMolecule Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Spectrum of Non-Resonant Aromatic Amine Showing Raman Forbidden Bands”, arXiv:1610.08270, 2016.
3. Yuko S. Yamamoto*, Tamitake Itoh*, “Why and how do the shapes of
surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectra change? Recent progressfrom mechanistic studies”, J. Raman Spectrosc., 47, 78-88, 2016.

Figure. Schematic of surface-enhanced Raman scattering measurement.

Based on “surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy”, one of the surface-enhancement spectroscopy, we can obtain the information on the vibration level of molecules.
Our lab promotes both fundamental researches and applied researches. Current research topics
of us are as follows:

1.Surface analysis of catalytic chemical reactions using surface-enhanced Raman
scattering
In recent years, nanostructures made of coinage metals such as gold and silver, showing strong
plasmon resonance in the visible light region are considered very promising as next-generation heterogeneous photocatalyst materials. A conventional heterogeneous photocatalysts
such as titanium dioxide (TiO2), which is well-known for its Honda-Fujishima effect, requires
ultraviolet light to produce the catalytic effect. Meanwhile, chemical reactions such as water
splitting(2H2O →2H2＋ O2) and dissociation of hydrogen molecules (H2→ H ＋＋ H ＋ ), which had

Equipment
Surface-enhanced Raman microscope (homemade)Density functional theory (DFT) calculation system

Teaching policy［Website］URL：(under construction)

I have personally studied what kind of environment is suitable for the basic research. As a result, I found that a free and unfettered research environment is the best for effective basic research. Therefore, our laboratory basically does not have a core time.
Information exchanges with members in our lab and confirmation of progress with peers are conducted in the weekly general meeting and seminars. I encourage students to come our lab who can autonomously manage their own research activities properly.
I recommend all the students in our lab to make presentations in domestic/international conferences about once a year to express our research results to the world. To the best of my skills, research themes of students are established taking into consideration the range and direction of each students’ interests and according to their preferences, with consideration of the research theme presented by me. Basically, we aim to publish our research results in the international journals.
Of course, I always provide individual guidance for each students as needed. Students are encouraged to actively make use of my knowledge and experiences.

31

TAKAMURA Lab.

E-mail：Senior Lecturer：HIROSE Daisuke d-hirose@jaist.ac.jp［Research areas］Functional oxides, biosensors, liquid processes［Keywords］MOD method, thin-filmtransistor, biomolecule detection,
biochip, printed electronics

Creation of highly functional materials from liquids
for visualization of biology and the environment
Skills and background we are looking for in prospective students
Curiosity, the challenge of research, and the will to enjoy unexplained and unknown phenomena.
No special knowledge is required, as we will guide you from the basic level of knowledge. We welcome students from any field.

What you can expect to learn in this laboratory
In our research, we will be conducting experiments in a variety of fields.Through research, you learn research perspectives and ideas thatare not bound by your field of study. You obtain the ability to solve problems through logical thinking and task-performance skills.Throughpresentations at conferences and seminars, you will be able to acquire the ability to make presentations and communicate effectively.

【Job category of graduates】Semiconductor manufacturing equipment maker, Electronic component companies, Measuring equipment companies

Research outline
We are creating products based on the metalorganic decomposition (MOD) method. his method is a technique to produce oxides
with various electrical properties. Furthermore, we have discoveredthat oxides and intermediates fabricated by this MOD method havespecific characteristics. Our research and development of new
sensing devices and patterning methods are based on the combination of these features and semiconductor processes.

Highly sensitive oxide sensing devices

We have been researching and developing oxide thin-film transistor-type nucleic acid sensors that enable rapid and sensitive measurement.

Key publications
1. Submicron titania pattern fabrication via thermal nanoimprint
printing and Microstructural analysis of printable titania gels,
D.Hirose, H. Yamada, T. Jochi, K. Ohara and Y. Takamura, Ceramics International, online, (2024)
2. Rapid and Highly Sensitive Detection of Leishmania by Combining Recombinase Polymerase Amplification and Solution-Processed Oxide Thin-Film Transistor Technology, W. Wu, M. Biyani,
D. Hirose and Y. Takamura, Biosensors, vol. 13, 8, p. 765, (2023).
3. Origin of the thermal plasticity property of zirconium oxidegels for use in direct thermal nanoimprinting, D. Hirose, J. Li,
Y.Murakami, S. Kohara and T. Shimoda, Ceramics International,
vol.44, p. 17602, (2018).

Equipment
Electronic device fabrication equipment (photolithography, sputtering,nanoimprinting), electrical characteristics evaluation equipment(semiconductor parameter analyzer, impedance analyzer), shapeevaluation equipment (SEM, AFM), material properties evaluationequipment (TG-DTA, FT-IR, UV-vis, XRD, XPS, contact angle meter)

Oxide Mold Formation Technology

We have developed a low-energy, low-cost direct printing method
for oxides using nanoimprinting. This technique enables easy fabrication of sub-micron scale patterns.

Teaching policy
Our laboratory aims to visualize biology and the environment based on MOD technology to produce functional oxides fromliquids. We are targeting all kinds of molecules around us and applying them to society and our daily lives.
We are now at a stage of great growth. Let's combine your ideas with our technology to create new visualization sensors!
In our research, we will set a theme in line with your interests. We will support you to clear your subjects one by one toward your
goal.

32

Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
School of Materials Science