Graduate School of Science

Professor Hisao Kobayashi

We are improving tools and methods to study special materials, which have unique properties due to quantum physics. Our goal is to discover new ways these materials can be used especially for energy related technologies. This could lead to breakthroughs that support a sustainable society by finding innovative uses for these materials and understanding how they work.

Graduate School of Science

Professor Yoshihito Tanaka

The interaction of X-rays with materials has led to a variety of measurement methods. If X-rays can be transmitted through fiber optics, we will be able to use X-rays much more easily than now, just like fiber-optic cable communication networks. We are developing a method to introduce synchrotron radiation X-rays into a hollow glass fiber to control the irradiation position, and to transmit visible light lasers at the same time to efficiently measure optical properties.

Graduate School of Engineering

Professor Yusuke Kikuchi

In Japan, about 50% of electricity is consumed by electric motors. Reducing motor power consumption by inverters using next-generation power semiconductor devices such as SiC will contribute to energy conservation, prevention of global warming, and development of electric vehicles and electric aircraft. This research aims to develop advanced electrical insulation technology for SiC inverters under reduced pressure at aircraft flight altitudes to support higher voltages and frequencies.

School of Human Science and Environment

Associate Professor Naoki Masuhara

Aiming to evaluate synergies and trade-offs among goals, which is one of the characteristics of the SDGs, we are studying the linkages among goals on the subjects of water, energy, and climate change, and researching under what circumstances trade-offs can occur. Conversely, we are proposing policies in Hyogo, Kyoto, and other cities to create synergies that will enable us to resolve issues such as the environment and the economy, and the environment and society.

Graduate School of Engineering

Professor Syogo Ito

For such a goal, a highly durable perovskites solar cell was completed. (That is what I am holding in my hands in the picture.)

I am also doing research and development into hydrogen fuel cells with ultra-durable catalyzers and platinum-free catalyzers, in order to use that energy. (A hydrogen cabinet is pictured on the right side of the picture. Pictured on the left side is an air tank.) We will keep on creating amazing developments.

Institute for Policy Analysis and Social Innovation

Professor Atsushi Fukumi

In developing nations in Asia, in India in particular, research is being conducted from the simple awareness of the question of “Why are the necessary public assets not appropriately provided?” In recent years, progress is being made with regards to research, with a focus on the differences in electrical infrastructure between states, on the effects on economic policies and accumulation of public assets due to Indian’s complex social structure, including factors such as caste and religion, .

Graduate School of Engineering

Associate Professor Naohisa Takagaki

The violent winds, high tides, and heavy rainfall from typhoons cause major damage to society. In that regard, my graduate school is developing a highly accurate forecasting model of typhoons using an ultra-large mock ocean experimental tank called a “typhoon simulation tank”, the only one of its kind in Japan.

Moreover, being able to modify typhoons, much like suppressing global warming, will create a society with fewer disasters, so we are also investigating that potential.

We are also utilizing engineering to develop ocean energy technologies.

Graduate School of Engineering

Associate Professor Kensuke Kanda

I am developing elements for effectively utilizing minute energy that can be found in the vibrations, wind, and rain in our daily lives.

The goal is to use power source elements in IoT sensors and the like in order to realize autonomous systems that contain no batteries and are environmentally friendly.

With an outlook on future sensor integration, I am developing MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems) using semiconductor manufacturing processes.

Graduate School of Engineering

Professor Osamu Kawanami

Heat is a source of energy and a waste product in its final form. For example, at the data centers that are necessary for cloud technologies, approximately 40% of the power consumption is for the energy necessary to cool electrical components, which generate heat. With regards to heat-related problems, we are developing new technologies for heat management and utilization and research that contributes to lowering energy consumption.

Graduate School of Science

Professor Hiroki Wadati

Conventional microscopes are expensive and large, and everyday microscopic measurements are difficult.

We are developing an inexpensive and small microscope using a 3D printer. We hope that these portable microscopes would create major changes at research and education sites.

In particular, I believe that looking at the magnetic domain structure of magnets will lead to the development of new types of computer memory using domain wall displacement.