Philosophy and Goals of Education and Research Objective of Human Resource Development Our goal is to cultivate highly skilled science and engineering professionals with broad knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities in material chemistry, which encompasses both the fundamentals and applications of life sciences and chemistry. These individuals will contribute to the scientific pursuit of “human and environmental health,” where these academic fields are deeply interconnected. Students will acquire foundational capabilities and advanced expertise in life engineering, material chemistry, and related disciplines. They will also develop a strong sense of ethics and creativity to generate new knowledge. Based on life engineering and material chemistry, we aim to nurture professionals who can thrive in interdisciplinary areas that bridge chemistry, industrial chemistry, physics, and biology. Ideal Candidate Profile Highly skilled science and engineering professionals with broad knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities in material chemistry, which encompasses both the fundamentals and applications of life sciences and chemistry. Features of Life Science and Material Chemistry Program Main Research Areas Physical ChemistryMolecular spectroscopy explores the properties of molecules with the interaction between light and molecules. In this area, we will clarify the ultrafast dynamics of molecules, weak interaction between molecules, etc. using labo-build spectroscopic measurement systems, targeting molecular groups related to solar energy conversion and emitting devices. Biomaterials Process EngineeringBiofabrication of living tissue-like structures in vitro would contribute to recover the vital function that was lost due to organ failure or congenital disease. Therefore, we have aimed to fabricate large-scaled tissues by assembling and laminating tiny “bio-parts” composed of various types of cells and/or biomaterials. Catalyst and Energy Materials EngineeringDeveloping New Catalytic Synthesis Process for Carbon-Neutral Chemicals and Energy Products Tsubaki laboratory is studying new catalyst, reactor and process to synthesize carbon-neutral olefin, aromatics, jet fuel, gasoline and so on, using green-house gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (natural gas). We launched several national projects with Japanese companies, being scheduled to commercialize these new carbon-zero chemical synthesis processes during several years. Computational Applied ChemistryThe recent rapid development of computer technology has enabled us to analyze a large molecular system by the method of computational chemistry based on all-atom simulation. In this research field, we have addressed a lot of issues that cannot be solved only via experimental methods by making full use of theoretical methods such as electronic structure calculations and molecular simulations. Physical ChemistryMolecular spectroscopy explores the properties of molecules with the interaction between light and molecules. In this area, we will clarify the ultrafast dynamics of molecules, weak interaction between molecules, etc. using labo-build spectroscopic measurement systems, targeting molecular groups related to solar energy conversion and emitting devices. Biomaterials Process EngineeringBiofabrication of living tissue-like structures in vitro would contribute to recover the vital function that was lost due to organ failure or congenital disease. Therefore, we have aimed to fabricate large-scaled tissues by assembling and laminating tiny “bio-parts” composed of various types of cells and/or biomaterials. Catalyst and Energy Materials EngineeringDeveloping New Catalytic Synthesis Process for Carbon-Neutral Chemicals and Energy Products Tsubaki laboratory is studying new catalyst, reactor and process to synthesize carbon-neutral olefin, aromatics, jet fuel, gasoline and so on, using green-house gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (natural gas). We launched several national projects with Japanese companies, being scheduled to commercialize these new carbon-zero chemical synthesis processes during several years. Computational Applied ChemistryThe recent rapid development of computer technology has enabled us to analyze a large molecular system by the method of computational chemistry based on all-atom simulation. In this research field, we have addressed a lot of issues that cannot be solved only via experimental methods by making full use of theoretical methods such as electronic structure calculations and molecular simulations. Educational Objectives, Goals, and the Three Policies Diploma Policy Policy on Completion and Degree Conferment The Graduate School of Science and Engineering aims to explore the depths of academic theory and application in science, engineering, and related fields. It seeks to cultivate profound academic knowledge, exceptional abilities, and a strong sense of ethics necessary for professions requiring advanced expertise, thereby contributing to the advancement of natural sciences and technology. Based on this educational objective, the Master’s degree in Science and Engineering will be awarded to those who acquire foundational capabilities and advanced expertise in life engineering, material chemistry, and related fields, develop ethical awareness and creativity to generate new knowledge, and achieve the following learning outcomes. Learning Goals and Indicators Foundational Competencies Learning Outcome: Possesses a broad academic foundation in life engineering and material chemistry, English proficiency for global engagement, and logical thinking skills, along with the ability to view diverse issues from a multifaceted perspective. Indicator: Demonstrates rich academic knowledge in science and engineering, English proficiency, logical thinking, and the ability to take a comprehensive view of various challenges. Specialized Knowledge Learning Outcome: Acquires specialized knowledge and research skills in life engineering and material chemistry, as well as the expertise required for highly specialized professions. Indicator: Demonstrates advanced specialized knowledge and research capabilities in life engineering and material chemistry, along with practical skills needed for highly specialized careers. Ethical Awareness Learning Outcome: Develops a strong sense of research ethics necessary for professionals and researchers in life engineering and material chemistry. Indicator: Demonstrates awareness of ethical standards in research. Creativity Learning Outcome: Possesses the ability to create new knowledge in scientific fields such as life engineering and material chemistry, generate additional value from that knowledge, and propose innovative solutions to societal challenges. Indicator: Demonstrates the ability to create new knowledge in life engineering and material chemistry, generate further value, and propose solutions to societal issues. Curriculum Policy Curriculum Design Policy The Life and Material Chemistry Program organizes a systematic curriculum to develop the four competencies outlined in the Diploma Policy. Curriculum Implementation Policy Over the course of two years, the curriculum is designed to encourage students to learn independently and actively. In addition to required courses such as lectures, exercises, and special research, elective courses are offered through various formats including lectures, exercises, experiments, and practical training. Student performance is evaluated based on objective grading criteria aligned with the achievement of learning outcomes for each competency. Content, Methods, and Evaluation of Learning Foundational Competencies Content: To develop broad academic knowledge and a comprehensive perspective, students study subjects outside their specialization and acquire English proficiency for understanding and communicating global information. Method: Students take university-wide and graduate school-wide common courses offered by the Graduate School of Science and Engineering. Evaluation: Assessed through exams, reports, and presentations in each course. Specialized Knowledge Content: Students acquire specialized knowledge and practical skills necessary for research and professional practice in life engineering and material chemistry. Method: Students take specialized courses in the Life and Material Chemistry Program offered by the Graduate School of Science and Engineering. Evaluation: Assessed through exams, reports, and presentations in each course. Ethical Awareness Content: Students gain knowledge of information security and research ethics to develop ethical awareness. Method: Students take university-wide common courses that foster ethical awareness. Evaluation: Assessed through exams, reports, and presentations in each course. Creativity Content: Through research, presentations, and discussions in life engineering and material chemistry, students develop creativity and problem-solving skills. Method: Students engage in special research and write a master’s thesis. Evaluation: Assessed through a final examination and presentation. Admission Policy Policy on Student Admission The Life and Material Chemistry Program seeks students who possess basic academic skills in fields such as life engineering, chemistry, and applied chemistry, and who are motivated to acquire advanced expertise and research capabilities to contribute as highly skilled professionals. Basic Policy on Student Selection (Types of Entrance Exams and Evaluation Methods) To provide multiple opportunities and evaluate a diverse range of applicants, the following types of entrance examinations are offered: General Entrance Examination Comprehensive evaluation based on interviews (including oral academic tests) and application documents (academic records, external English test scores, etc.). Recommendation-Based Entrance Examination Comprehensive evaluation based on interviews (including oral academic tests) and application documents (letters of recommendation, academic records, external English test scores, etc.). Special Entrance Examination for Working Adults Comprehensive evaluation based on interviews (including oral academic tests) and application documents (academic records, etc.). Special Entrance Examination for International Students Comprehensive evaluation based on interviews (including oral academic tests) and application documents (academic records, etc.). Desired Qualities and Abilities Foundational Competencies Possesses academic abilities equivalent to a university graduate and is motivated to acquire broad knowledge not only in science and engineering but also in related disciplines. Specialized Knowledge Has basic academic skills in life engineering and material chemistry and is motivated to acquire advanced expertise and research capabilities to contribute as a highly skilled professional. Ethical Awareness Has a sense of responsibility and ethics as a member of society and is committed to conducting research that contributes to the sound development of science and technology. Creativity Possesses a strong desire to tackle unknown and cutting-edge challenges in life engineering and material chemistry, along with a broad perspective and flexible thinking. Curriculum Model Curriculum Model Research Theme: Study on the Structure-Activity Relationship of Chemical Substances Targeted Human Resource Profile: Advanced science and engineering professionals and researchers who, based on life engineering and material chemistry, also understand interdisciplinary areas with physics and biology, and can contribute to research and development in the fields of life and organic chemistry. Graduate School Common Courses Interdisciplinary Common Courses Program Specialized Courses Specialized Courses Research Guidance Year 1 1st Term Research Ethics 1 Academic Writing in English I 1 Introduction to Social Implementation of Natural Sciences (Chemistry / Applied Chemistry) 1 Photochemistry 2 Advanced Topics in Biotechnology 1 Special Research in Life and Material Chemistry 10 2nd Term Intellectual Property Law 1 Advanced Laboratory Safety I 1 Introduction to Social Implementation of Natural Sciences (Biology / Life Engineering) 1 Advanced Biomacromolecular Chemistry 1 Advanced Electroanalytical Chemistry 1 3rd Term Science, Technology and Sustainable Society 1 Advanced Radiation Biotechnology 1 Advanced Pharmacology and Genetic Engineering 1 Advanced Protein System Engineering 1 Advanced Computational Molecular Chemistry 1 4th Term Joint Internship in Science and Engineering I 1 Advanced Drug Discovery Engineering 1 Advanced Interface Molecular Chemistry 1 Year 2 1st Term 2nd Term Interdisciplinary Research Experience (Life and Material Chemistry Program) 1 3rd Term 4th Term Credits Earned 4 4 12 10 22 Total Credits Earned: 30 Research Theme: Development of Novel Functional Metal Compounds and Mechanisms of Functional Expression Targeted Human Resource Profile: Advanced science and engineering professionals and researchers who, based on life engineering and material chemistry, also understand interdisciplinary areas with physics and biology, and can contribute to research and development in inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry. Graduate School Common Courses Interdisciplinary Common Courses Program Specialized Courses Specialized Courses Research Guidance Year 1 1st Term Research Ethics 1 Academic Writing in English I 1 Introduction to Social Implementation of Natural Sciences (Chemistry / Applied Chemistry) 1 Photochemistry 2 Advanced Radiation and Isotope Science I 1 Special Research in Life and Material Chemistry 10 2nd Term Academic Writing in English II 1 Advanced Laboratory Safety I 1 Introduction to Social Implementation of Natural Sciences (Clean Energy) 1 Advanced Coordination Reaction Chemistry 1 Advanced Frontier Science I 1 3rd Term Science, Technology and Sustainable Society 1 Advanced Computational Molecular Science 1 Structural Inorganic Chemistry I 1 Advanced Frontier Science II 1 4th Term Joint Internship in Science and Engineering I 1 Structural Inorganic Chemistry II 1 2nd Year 1st Term Advanced Solid State Materials Science for Clean Energy I 1 2nd Term Interdisciplinary Research Experience (Life and Material Chemistry Program) 1 Advanced Solid State Materials Science for Clean Energy II 1 3rd Term 4th Term Credits Earned 4 4 12 10 22 Total Credits Earned: 30 Career Information Licenses, Qualifications, and Exam Eligibility Advanced Teaching License for Junior High School (Science) Advanced Teaching License for High School (Science) Career Paths After Completion Highly skilled science and engineering professionals and researchers who can contribute to the chemical industry, pharmaceutical industry, chemical analysis, and life-related industries, as well as science teachers at junior and senior high schools. Faculty List Research Area Faculty Name Research Theme Link Nano Materials Chemistry Junior Associate Professor Hiroyasu Nishi We are conducting research on the synthesis, physical properties, and functional development of metallic and compound semiconductor nanomaterials, as well as the development of novel nanofabrication technologies based on electrochemical and photoelectrochemical methods. Researcher Profile (Pure) Physical Chemistry Professor Koichi Nozaki We are conducting research on the photophysical properties of photo-functional materials, as well as on electron and energy transfer and structural relaxation dynamics. Researcher Profile (Pure) Physical Chemistry Associate Professor Honoh Suzuki We are studying the reactivity of molecular assemblies in solution, such as liposomes and nanoshells, using infrared pulsed lasers. Researcher Profile (Pure) Physical Chemistry Junior Associate Professor Munetaka Iwamura We are conducting research on the photoexcitation dynamics of metal complexes involved in light energy conversion. Researcher Profile (Pure) Physical Chemistry Assistant Professor Tsukasa Takanashi Researcher Profile (Pure) Coordination Chemistry Professor Kiyoshi Tsuge We are conducting research on the synthesis and properties of luminescent complexes and complexes that respond to external stimuli. Researcher Profile (Pure) Coordination Chemistry Associate Professor Hideki Ohtsu We are conducting research on the transformation reactions and mechanisms of ubiquitous small molecules using light energy mediated by metal complexes. Researcher Profile (Pure) Organic Chemistry Professor Naoto Hayashi We are conducting research on the structure, physical properties, functions, and reactivity of organic compounds in crystalline and amorphous states. Researcher Profile (Pure) Organic Chemistry Assistant Professor Junro Yoshino We are conducting research on the synthesis, structure, and physical properties of functional organic molecules that utilize the characteristics of elements. Researcher Profile (Pure) Natural Products Chemistry Associate Professor Masahiro Miyazawa We are developing novel asymmetric reactions using homogeneous complex catalysts and conducting stereoselective synthesis of highly functionalized natural products. Researcher Profile (Pure) Natural Products Chemistry Junior Associate Professor Hajime Yokoyama We are conducting research aimed at achieving the SDGs, including the total synthesis of bioactive natural products related to biological phenomena, the development of novel reactions and methodologies that enable such synthesis, and chemical biology studies based on these natural products. Researcher Profile (Pure) Biofunctional Chemistry ProfessorYoshiya Ikawa We are conducting research on elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which nucleic acid polymer RNA exhibits advanced biological functions, and on the artificial creation of novel RNA structures and functions based on these mechanisms as design principles. Researcher Profile (Pure) Biofunctional Chemistry Junior Associate Professor Shigeyoshi Matsumura We are developing microfluidic technologies for manipulating microdroplets and using them as artificial cell-like structures to evolve RNA within them. Researcher Profile (Pure) Organic Electrochemistry Assistant Professor Kazuhiro Okamoto We are developing organic synthesis reactions utilizing electrode electron transfer. In particular, we focus on the reactivity of radicals and cationic intermediates generated by the electrochemical oxidation of nitrogen-containing compounds in the synthesis of bio-related molecules. Researcher Profile (Pure) Genetic Information Engineering Professor Nobuyuki Kurosawa We conduct education and research aimed at biotechnology applications through the analysis of gene expression regulation mechanisms and intracellular signal transduction mechanisms related to diseases in humans and mammals, as well as the systematic analysis of immune-related molecules including antibodies. Researcher Profile (Pure) Genetic Information Engineering Associate Professor Tatsuhiko Ozawa Researcher Profile (Pure) Genetic Information Engineering Junior Associate Professor Seiichi Koike Intracellular organelles play a fundamental role in cellular functions, and dysfunctions in these organelles can lead to various diseases. In our laboratory, we aim to elucidate and modify organelle functions to contribute to understanding disease mechanisms and solving environmental issues through education and research. In particular, we are tackling these challenges using a novel synthetic biology approach: creating “super cells” equipped with artificial organelles synthesized using liposomes. Researcher Profile (Pure) Genetic Information Engineering Assistant Professor Maki Moriwaki We conduct education and research on the discovery and efficient production of valuable compounds using various microorganisms such as bacteria and filamentous fungi, with applications in biorefineries and pharmaceuticals. We also study the biosynthetic mechanisms in microorganisms and the mechanisms of action in animal cells. Researcher Profile (Pure) Bioinformatics Pharmacology Associate Professor Ichiro Takasaki We conduct education and research on analyzing the pathogenesis of diseases such as chronic pain, itch, neurological and psychiatric disorders, and cancer. Our work also focuses on the discovery of novel organic small-molecule therapeutics and the evaluation of their efficacy and pharmacological mechanisms. Researcher Profile (Pure) Biochemistry Junior Associate Professor Michio Sayama We conduct education and research on the metabolism and pharmacokinetics of drugs and toxins, and their relationship to pharmacological and toxicological effects. Our work also includes the purification of metabolic enzymes and the conversion of environmental pollutants into useful substances using enzymes and microorganisms, as well as the application of enzymes in organic synthesis and analytical chemistry. Researcher Profile (Pure) Cellular Electrical Engineering Junior Associate Professor Minoru Suga We conduct education and research on analyzing cellular behavior from the perspective of electrical properties by utilizing electrical engineering techniques and observing cell responses under alternating electric fields, with applications in activity evaluation and related fields. Researcher Profile (Pure) Brain and Neural Systems Engineering Professor Shigenori Kawahara We conduct education and research on uncovering the underlying principles of the brain and nervous system from a biophysical perspective. This includes elucidating the mechanisms of learning and memory through neural activity recording and pharmacological experiments, as well as exploring their engineering applications. Researcher Profile (Pure) Materials Process Engineering Assistant Professor Shintaroh Iwanaga We conduct education and research on the processing of cells and biomaterials necessary for creating artificial tissues that closely resemble human organs and systems, utilizing technologies from chemical engineering, polymer chemistry, and biomedical engineering. Researcher Profile (Pure) Biofunctional Molecular Engineering Professor Naoki Toyooka We conduct education and research on the design, synthesis, and activity evaluation of bioactive organic small molecules, such as pharmaceuticals, that function effectively within the human body. Researcher Profile (Pure) Biofunctional Molecular Engineering Associate Professor Takuya Okada We conduct education and research on the synthesis and biological activity evaluation of organic small molecules, such as natural products and pharmaceuticals with unique structures, based on organic synthesis. Researcher Profile (Pure) Process Systems Engineering Associate Professor Taketoshi Kurooka We conduct education and research on design methods, operation techniques, and monitoring and control strategies for safely and efficiently operating complex systems involving interactions between humans and machines, such as industrial plants and automobiles. Researcher Profile (Pure) Protein Systems Engineering Associate Professor Tomonao Inobe We conduct education and research aimed at understanding how proteins—essential to sustaining life—are produced and degraded within cells from the perspectives of protein science and biophysics, and at developing technologies to artificially control their life cycles and exploring their applications. Researcher Profile (Pure) Catalyst and Energy Materials Engineering Professor Noritatsu Tsubaki We are engaged in the development of novel catalytic chemical synthesis reactions with low environmental impact. Our education and research focus on catalytic chemistry and chemical engineering related to the advanced utilization of natural resources such as biomass, carbon dioxide, and shale gas, the development of alternative energy sources to petroleum, and the creation of new functional nanomaterials. Researcher Profile (Pure) Catalyst and Energy Materials Engineering Associate Professor Guohui Yang Researcher Profile (Pure) Environmental Functional Molecular Chemistry Professor Shigehiro Kagaya We conduct education and research on the development of element separation materials that utilize the unique functions of various molecules, and the establishment of element separation technologies using these materials. These technologies are applied to environmental analysis, waste and wastewater treatment, and the recovery of rare and valuable resources. Researcher Profile (Pure) Environmental Functional Molecular Chemistry Associate Professor Makoto Gemmei We conduct education and research on understanding adsorption and desorption phenomena at solid–liquid interfaces, and on developing surface modification technologies and functional materials that resist contamination based on this understanding. Researcher Profile (Pure) Inorganic Industrial Chemistry Professor Sen-ichi Aizawa It has been revealed through studies on the physiological and pharmacological effects of metal complexes that they can exhibit exceptionally high functionality. From the perspective of engineering applications of these properties, we conduct education and research on the development of high-performance materials and reagents using metal complexes, by correlating their structures and electronic states with their reactivity. Researcher Profile (Pure) Inorganic Industrial Chemistry Associate Professor Akira Miyazaki We conduct education and research on the design and synthesis of molecular solid-state systems based on organic compounds, transition metal complexes, and organometallic compounds that exhibit novel properties such as conductivity and magnetism, as well as the measurement and analysis of their physical properties. Researcher Profile (Pure) Computational Applied Chemistry Professor Tatsuya Ishiyama We conduct education and research that utilize rapidly advancing computer technologies to elucidate chemical phenomena not only through experiments but also through theoretical calculations. Our curriculum includes understanding the fundamentals of electronic structure calculations and molecular simulation methods, and applying them to real-world problems. Researcher Profile (Pure) Functional Chemistry of Biomolecules Associate Professor Masafumi Sakono We conduct education and research aimed at developing functional materials derived from biological resources and probes for understanding biological phenomena. By combining precisely designed biomolecules with functional molecules obtained through organic synthesis, we contribute to the fields of biochemistry and biomaterials through innovative creation. Researcher Profile (Pure) Pharmaceutical Engineering Professor Hitoshi Abe We conduct education and research on the creation of new functional substances such as pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals that support modern society, using bioactive natural organic molecules as lead compounds. Researcher Profile (Pure) Environmental Analytical Chemistry Professor Koji Tohda We conduct education and research on the development of novel analytical methods for heavy metals and hazardous organic substances in the environment, as well as the development of electrochemical and optical sensors and their applications in environmental and clinical chemical analysis. Researcher Profile (Pure) Environmental Analytical Chemistry Assistant Professor Akira Kanno Researcher Profile (Pure) Environmental Conservation Chemical Engineering Assistant Professor Guiqing Liu We provide education and conduct research by understanding the principles of fundamental chemical operations such as pyrolysis, combustion, adsorption, absorption, and fluidized beds, and addressing various energy-saving and environmental conservation issues. Our research and development also focus on fluidized bed granulation processes, novel adsorbents for carbon dioxide, and methods to suppress acidic gases in pyrolysis and combustion exhaust. Researcher Profile (Pure) Biomaterial Design Engineering Associate Professor Tadashi Nakaji We provide education and conduct research on the fundamentals and applications of creating biomaterials, which are powerful tools in regenerative medicine—a promising field in next-generation healthcare. In particular, we aim to develop materials using polymers and biomolecules (such as proteins and hormones), deepening our understanding of the chemical and physical properties of polymers, as well as the hierarchical structure of proteins and cells, and applying this knowledge to rational and practical material design. Researcher Profile (Pure) Hydrogen Isotope Science Professor Takayuki Abe We are conducting research on the functionality of hydrogen isotopes as hydrogen energy and fusion reactor fuel, as well as on functional materials. Our research also focuses on isotope effects of hydrogen and decay effects of tritium. Researcher Profile (Pure) Hydrogen Isotope Science Professor Masanori Hara We are conducting research on the measurement of tritium, a radioactive hydrogen isotope, and the isotope effects observed in reactions between hydrogen isotopes and materials. Researcher Profile (Pure) Hydrogen Isotope Science Associate Professor Hidehisa Hagiwara We are conducting research on hydrogen production through solar energy conversion using inorganic semiconductor photocatalysts. Researcher Profile (Pure) Hydrogen Isotope Science Junior Associate Professor Akira Taguchi We are conducting research on the synthesis of ordered porous materials such as zeolites, and their application to methane conversion catalysts, adsorbents, and separation materials for hydrogen isotopes. Researcher Profile (Pure) Hydrogen Isotope Science Assistant Professor Satoshi Akamaru We are conducting research on methods to control the magnetic and electrical conductivity properties of materials using hydrogen isotopes, as well as the development and application of such functional materials. Researcher Profile (Pure) Environmental Chemical Measurement Professor Hideki Kuramitz We are developing analytical methods (such as sensors and bioassays) to evaluate the concentration and toxicity of environmental pollutants, and conducting monitoring of freshwater and soil environments using these methods. We are also working on the development of water treatment technologies using adsorption and electrochemical techniques. Researcher Profile (Pure)
