Philosophy and Goals of Education and Research Purpose of Human Resource Development We aim to cultivate advanced science and engineering professionals and researchers who possess extensive knowledge and critical thinking skills in Earth science, biology, and environmental science, and who can contribute to a sustainable society. In line with this goal, students will acquire in-depth expertise in Earth science, biology, and environmental science as core academic disciplines within the field of science. Profile of Graduates We foster advanced science and engineering professionals and researchers who have acquired broad knowledge in the core academic fields of Earth science, biological science, and environmental science, and who can contribute to a sustainable society. Features of the Sustainable Global Environmental Studies Program Main Research Areas Geological ScienceWe conduct educational and research activities aimed at elucidating the mechanisms of material circulation and chemical reactions over Earth’s 4.6-billion-year history, which control the distribution of underground resources and changes in the global environment. Specifically, we explore material circulation, chemical reactions, thermal history, and surface environmental changes from the birth of the Earth to the present day, based on precise geochronology using solid materials that record Earth’s history, such as minerals, rocks, and strata. Geophysics of Atmosphere, Ocean, and CryosphereAs global warming progresses, extreme weather events are becoming more severe and frequent. The Hokuriku region is also affected by this large-scale climate change, facing increased risks of regional disasters such as heavy snowfall, lightning, heatwaves, and storm surges. To protect safe urban functions and a rich social life from these risks, we conduct research on the mechanisms of climate system variability from a global perspective and foster human resources with advanced capabilities to apply this knowledge to solving regional issues. Solid Earth GeophysicsWe provide education and conduct research on the structure and various spatiotemporal variations of the solid Earth through physical approaches such as seismology, geodesy, geomagnetism, and rock physics. In particular, we study the crustal structure, earthquakes, volcanoes, and environmental changes in central Japan, including the Hokuriku region, through observation, surveys, and experiments. By deepening our understanding of the structure and mechanisms of solid Earth dynamics, we aim to foster human resources who can contribute to disaster prediction, prevention, and mitigation in the region. Regulatory biologyFrom the responses of individuals and populations to external environments surrounding living organisms, we conduct education and research on adaptation mechanisms in natural environments from a broad perspective, incorporating chronobiology, sleep science, endocrinology, and behavioral physiology. Life information scienceWe conduct education and research on the molecular mechanisms of cell and organ differentiation in higher plants, the transmission and expression of genomic information in the nucleus and plastids, and the reception and signaling mechanisms of environmental cues such as light and hormones. Living structure scienceWe conduct education and research to clarify the fundamental principles underlying various biological processes such as development, morphogenesis, structural characteristics, phylogenetic relationships, diversity, behavioral ecology, and evolution. This is achieved through comparative studies that place particular emphasis on biological structures. Environmental and analytical chemistryWe conduct education and research on the fundamental theories of chemical substance separation and detection, the development of analytical methods for trace components in water and techniques for removing harmful substances from wastewater, as well as the study of the origin, circulation, and distribution of substances and changes in environmental conditions using trace components and stable isotopes. Environmental BiologyWe conduct education and research on the functions of organisms, which are key components of the biosphere, across molecular to ecosystem levels. In particular, we focus on the effects of environmental factors such as light, water, metal ions, and chemical substances on physiological functions, as well as the impacts of global environmental changes and interactions between individuals or species. Environmental Sustainability ScienceWe conduct education and research on environmental science from the perspectives of utilization and conservation, focusing on various issues necessary for building a sustainable society. Our studies target natural ecosystems, farmland, plantations, and green spaces. Geological ScienceWe conduct educational and research activities aimed at elucidating the mechanisms of material circulation and chemical reactions over Earth’s 4.6-billion-year history, which control the distribution of underground resources and changes in the global environment. Specifically, we explore material circulation, chemical reactions, thermal history, and surface environmental changes from the birth of the Earth to the present day, based on precise geochronology using solid materials that record Earth’s history, such as minerals, rocks, and strata. Geophysics of Atmosphere, Ocean, and CryosphereAs global warming progresses, extreme weather events are becoming more severe and frequent. The Hokuriku region is also affected by this large-scale climate change, facing increased risks of regional disasters such as heavy snowfall, lightning, heatwaves, and storm surges. To protect safe urban functions and a rich social life from these risks, we conduct research on the mechanisms of climate system variability from a global perspective and foster human resources with advanced capabilities to apply this knowledge to solving regional issues. Solid Earth GeophysicsWe provide education and conduct research on the structure and various spatiotemporal variations of the solid Earth through physical approaches such as seismology, geodesy, geomagnetism, and rock physics. In particular, we study the crustal structure, earthquakes, volcanoes, and environmental changes in central Japan, including the Hokuriku region, through observation, surveys, and experiments. By deepening our understanding of the structure and mechanisms of solid Earth dynamics, we aim to foster human resources who can contribute to disaster prediction, prevention, and mitigation in the region. Regulatory biologyFrom the responses of individuals and populations to external environments surrounding living organisms, we conduct education and research on adaptation mechanisms in natural environments from a broad perspective, incorporating chronobiology, sleep science, endocrinology, and behavioral physiology. Life information scienceWe conduct education and research on the molecular mechanisms of cell and organ differentiation in higher plants, the transmission and expression of genomic information in the nucleus and plastids, and the reception and signaling mechanisms of environmental cues such as light and hormones. Living structure scienceWe conduct education and research to clarify the fundamental principles underlying various biological processes such as development, morphogenesis, structural characteristics, phylogenetic relationships, diversity, behavioral ecology, and evolution. This is achieved through comparative studies that place particular emphasis on biological structures. Environmental and analytical chemistryWe conduct education and research on the fundamental theories of chemical substance separation and detection, the development of analytical methods for trace components in water and techniques for removing harmful substances from wastewater, as well as the study of the origin, circulation, and distribution of substances and changes in environmental conditions using trace components and stable isotopes. Environmental BiologyWe conduct education and research on the functions of organisms, which are key components of the biosphere, across molecular to ecosystem levels. In particular, we focus on the effects of environmental factors such as light, water, metal ions, and chemical substances on physiological functions, as well as the impacts of global environmental changes and interactions between individuals or species. Environmental Sustainability ScienceWe conduct education and research on environmental science from the perspectives of utilization and conservation, focusing on various issues necessary for building a sustainable society. Our studies target natural ecosystems, farmland, plantations, and green spaces. Educational Objectives, Goals, and Three Policies Diploma Policy Policy for Completion Certification and Degree Conferment In the Doctoral Program of the Graduate School of Science and Engineering (Sustainable Global Environmental Studies Program), we aim to foster researchers with original research capabilities and highly skilled engineers who can serve as core members of regional industries. These individuals will be able to respond to the advancement of science and technology in the newly emerging interdisciplinary field of Sustainable Global Environmental Studies, through the active integration of science and engineering. Based on this educational objective, students who complete the prescribed curriculum and achieve the following learning outcomes will be awarded the degree of Doctor of Science. Learning Goals and Indicators Fundamental Competencies Learning Outcomes: Broad academic knowledge supporting research and dissemination in science and engineering, and a comprehensive perspective for solving interdisciplinary issues. English proficiency for understanding original research papers and disseminating research findings. Indicators: Reading comprehension, logical thinking, and language skills for understanding original papers. Expressive and language skills for communicating research results. Specialized Knowledge Learning Outcomes: Ability to understand world-class research achievements and methodologies in Sustainable Global Environmental Studies, and competencies for specialized professions. Indicators: Ability to understand advanced achievements and methodologies in the field. Ethics Learning Outcomes: Awareness of research ethics. Indicators: Ethical awareness and ability to conduct research in accordance with ethical standards. Creativity Learning Outcomes: Ability to plan and conduct original research based on prior studies, and to present results in academic formats. Indicators: Research planning, implementation, and dissemination skills. Curriculum Policy Policy for Curriculum Organization In the Doctoral Program of the Graduate School of Science and Engineering (Sustainable Global Environmental Studies Program), a systematic curriculum is organized to help students acquire the four competencies outlined in the diploma policy. Policy for Curriculum Implementation Over the course of three years, the curriculum is designed to enable students to learn proactively and independently. In addition to required courses such as seminars and special research, students can choose lecture courses from both their own program and other programs. Evaluation is based on objective grading criteria that assess the degree to which students have achieved the learning goals for each competency. Content, Methods, and Evaluation of Learning Outcomes Fundamental Competencies Content: Acquire knowledge and a broad perspective necessary for identifying and solving new problems in various fields of science and engineering, including interdisciplinary areas with medicine and pharmaceutical sciences. Methods: Take courses offered by their own program or other programs. Evaluation: Instructors evaluate students through exams, reports, and presentations. Specialized Knowledge Content: Take advanced courses in the field of Sustainable Global Environmental Studies, read academic papers, and participate in academic conferences. Through seminars and discussions with supervisors, students plan and conduct doctoral research, compile results into academic papers, and present them. Methods: Study subjects related to their research theme, read academic papers, and participate in conferences. Evaluation: Faculty members evaluate students through final exams, presentations, and submitted academic papers. Ethics Content: Develop ethical awareness regarding research conduct, including compliance with laws and regulations. Methods: Attend various workshops or study using e-learning materials. Evaluation: Evaluation is based on reports or completion of learning materials, depending on the activity. Creativity Content: Acquire the ability to plan, conduct, and present original research based on prior studies. Methods: Conduct research, write papers, and present at academic conferences and workshops. Evaluation: Faculty members evaluate students through final exams, presentations, and submitted academic papers. Admission Policy Policy for Accepting Students The Doctoral Program in Science and Engineering (Sustainable Global Environmental Studies Program) seeks students who have a strong interest and foundational abilities in the fields of Earth science, biological science, and environmental science. We welcome those who aspire to become engineers and researchers capable of contributing to a sustainable society and human welfare by utilizing their specialized knowledge and skills to drive technological innovation and cultural advancement. Basic Policy for Student Selection (Types of Entrance Examinations and Evaluation Methods) To provide multiple opportunities for applicants and to evaluate a diverse range of students, the following types of entrance examinations are offered. General Entrance Examination Evaluation is based on oral examination, interview, and document review, focusing on English proficiency, subjects related to the desired field of study, the master’s thesis, and the proposed research plan after admission. Special Entrance Examination for Working Professionals Evaluation is based on oral examination, interview, and application documents, including subjects related to the desired field of study, academic papers, achievement reports, patents, and the proposed research plan after admission. Special Entrance Examination for International Students Evaluation is based on oral examination, interview, and application documents, focusing on language proficiency required for doctoral-level education, subjects related to the desired field of study, the master’s thesis, and the proposed research plan after admission. Desired Qualities and Abilities Fundamental Competencies Students should be motivated to acquire broad knowledge in various academic fields centered on science and engineering, and possess basic academic skills equivalent to a master’s degree, including comprehension, logical thinking, and expressive abilities. Specialized Knowledge Students should have a deep interest in the field of Sustainable Global Environmental Studies and be eager to acquire specialized knowledge and applied skills through research, aiming to contribute to society. Ethics Students should have a sense of responsibility and ethics as members of society, and be committed to conducting research that contributes to the sound development of science and technology. Creativity Students should possess strong research motivation and flexible thinking skills to tackle unknown and cutting-edge issues, with the aim of contributing to both local and global communities. Curriculum Model Curriculum Model Research Theme: Development of environmentally friendly pest control methods that contribute to achieving the SDGs Profile of Graduates: Highly specialized professionals who contribute to a sustainable society in the field of agriculture based on biological science Common Graduate School Courses Common Department Courses Program-Specific Courses Advanced Lecture Courses Special Seminar / Special Research Year 1 1T Special Seminar in Sustainable Global Environmental Studies Program 4 Special Research in Sustainable Global Environmental Studies Program 10 2T 3T Interdisciplinary Presentation Seminar I 1 4T Year 2 1T Interdisciplinary Research Experience 1 2T Long-Term Internship 1 3T Interdisciplinary Presentation Seminar II 1 Advanced Symbiotic Biology 2 4T Year 3 1T 2T 3T 4T Credits Earned 2 2 2 14 16 Total Credits Earned: 20 credits Research Theme: Environmental Monitoring of Substances in Aquatic Environments such as Oceans, Contributing to the Achievement of the SDGs Profile of Graduates: Researchers who conduct studies on the conservation of aquatic environments based on environmental science at universities and research institutions Common Graduate School Courses Common Department Courses Program-Specific Courses Advanced Lecture Courses Special Seminar / Special Research Year 1 1T Advanced Environmental Water Measurement Chemistry 2 Special Seminar in Sustainable Global Environmental Studies Program 4 Special Research in Sustainable Global Environmental Studies Program 10 2T 3T Interdisciplinary Presentation Seminar I 1 4T Year 2 1T Cross-Disciplinary Research Experience 1 2T Pre-FD Workshop 1 3T Interdisciplinary Presentation Seminar II 1 4T Year 3 1T 2T 3T 4T Credits Earned 2 2 2 14 16 Total Credits Earned: 20 Career Information Career Paths After Completion Manufacturing (Food industry: Management related to global procurement and control of food materials) Chemical Industry (Management related to environmental safety) Agriculture (Management related to production) Public Service (Science and engineering professionals and researchers) Academic Research, Professional and Technical Services (Science and engineering researchers at universities and public research institutions) Faculty Members Research Area Faculty Name Research Theme Link Geological Science Professor Yasuo Ishizaki We conduct education and research for unveiling the origins of underground resources and changes in the global environment during 4.6 billion years of the Earth history. The primary targets of our study are solid substances that record the Earth history such as minerals, rocks, and sedimentary strata. From the targets, we explore the material cycle, chemical reaction, heat history, and environmental changes of the Earth from its birth to the present on the basis of accurate age dating. Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Shin-ichi Sano Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Ken-ichi Yasue Researcher Profile (Pure) Junior Associate Professor Ai Kawamura Researcher Profile (Pure) Assistant Professor Hikaru Sawada Researcher Profile (Pure) Assistant Professor Toru Nakajima Researcher Profile (Pure) Geophysics of Atmosphere, Ocean, and Cryosphere Professor Kazuaki Yasunaga As global warming progresses, extreme weather events are becoming more severe and frequent. The Hokuriku region is also affected by these significant climate changes, facing increased risks of various local disasters such as heavy snowfall, thunderstorms, heatwaves, and storm surges. To protect safe urban functions and rich social life from these risks, we aim to study the mechanisms behind climate system changes from a global perspective and develop highly capable individuals who can apply this knowledge to solve local problems. Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Kazuma Aoki Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Konosuke Sugiura Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Bunmei Taguchi Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Masahiro Hori Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Wataru Shimada Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Atsushi Hamada Researcher Profile (Pure) Solid Earth Geophysics Professor Tohru Watanabe Our education and research are aiming to advance our understanding of the structure of the solid Earth and its dynamics, especially around the Central Japan. We are investigating the crustal structure, seismic and volcanic activities, and environmental changes in this area through geophysical observations, field surveys, and laboratory experiments. Students are trained to contribute to the prediction, prevention and mitigation of natural disasters. Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Naoto Ishikawa Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Kazuo Kawasaki Researcher Profile (Pure) Assistant Professor Kohei Hotta Researcher Profile (Pure) Regulatory biology Professor Kouhei Matsuda Education and research are conducted on adaptive significance of biological rhythms and sleep system, endocrine system, and behavioral system of an individual organism or population in changing external environments. Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Masayuki Ikeda Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Kimiko Shimizu Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Tomoko Yoshikawa Researcher Profile (Pure) Junior Associate Professor Norifumi Konno Researcher Profile (Pure) Junior Associate Professor Tomoya Nakamachi Researcher Profile (Pure) Junior Associate Professor Eri Morioka Researcher Profile (Pure) Life information science Professor Ichirou Karahara We study the molecular mechanisms underlying cell differentiation and organ development, as well as genome structure, inheritance, and gene expression in diverse plant species. We also investigate how plants perceive, transduce, and respond to environmental and endogenous signals, including light and hormones. Researcher Profile (Pure) Specially Appointed Associate Professor Tomoaki Nishiyama Researcher Profile (Pure) Junior Associate Professor Masayuki Yamamoto Researcher Profile (Pure) Junior Associate Professor Daisuke Tamaoki Researcher Profile (Pure) Living structure science Associate Professor Yuji Yamazaki We analyze various processes in the biological developments, morphogenesis, structural features, phylogenetic relationships, diversity, behavioral ecology and evolution through comparative study in living structures. Thus, we conduct education and research to understand the fundamental principles and rules. Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Kiyoto Maekawa Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Tsutomu Tsuchida Researcher Profile (Pure) Assistant Professor Kyouko Sato Researcher Profile (Pure) Assistant Professor Gohta Kinoshita Researcher Profile (Pure) Environmental and analytical chemistry Professor Jing Zhang Our group focuses on exploring techniques from chemical approaches in solving and clarifying environmental problems. For example, we are developing simple and rapid analytical methods to measure harmful components related to environmental pollution. The dynamics of these components are then studied, and based on these findings, we perform basic research to remove the pollutants from waste water. Furthermore, our research also includes geochemical monitoring of CO2 which consists of water rock interaction in geothermal fields. We also clarify and evaluate material cycling systems and mechanisms and changes in oceanic and terrestrial water systems, using major ions, trace elements, and stable isotopes. Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Hideki Kuramitsu Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Keiji Horikawa Researcher Profile (Pure) Junior Associate Professor Kazuto Sazawa Researcher Profile (Pure) Assistant Professor Takanori Kagoshima Researcher Profile (Pure) Specially Appointed Assistant Professor Hidetaka Kobayashi Researcher Profile (Pure) Environmental Biology Professor Daisuke Tanaka We conduct research on the functions of organisms, which are important components of the biosphere, from the molecular to ecosystem level. In particular, education and research will be conducted on the effects of environmental factors such as light, water, metal ions, and chemical substances on the physiological functions of organisms, the effects of global environmental change, and interactions between individual organisms and between species. Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Hiroshi Ishii Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Hiroyuki Kamachi Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Kenji Kashiwagi Researcher Profile (Pure) Junior Associate Professor Akihiro Sakatoku Researcher Profile (Pure) Assistant Professor Tamihisa Ohta Researcher Profile (Pure) Environmental Sustainability Science Professor Naoya Wada Our group’s primary focus is advancing environmental sustainability through rigorous research that emphasizes the conservation and responsible management of natural ecosystems, including land use land cover (LULC) and forestry, agricultural landscapes, plantations, coastal and marine seascapes, and urban green spaces. We mentor Ph.D. candidates in exploring methodologies for protecting, restoring, maintaining, and sustainably using ecological systems. Our research includes detailed analysis of land-use practices and ecosystem services in environmental systems such as freshwater and marine fish habitats, water resources, and agroecosystems from a sustainability science point of view. Additionally, we develop and implement sustainable management frameworks designed to ensure the long-term viability and resilience of environmental systems. Researcher Profile (Pure) Professor Geetha Mohan Researcher Profile (Pure) Associate Professor Chakraborty Shamik Researcher Profile (Pure) Assistant Professor Shishir Sharmin Researcher Profile (Pure) Assistant Professor Peterson Miles Isao Researcher Profile (Pure)
