Education at RIES

I am Rio Terauchi, a first-year master’s student in the Nakagaki Laboratory, where members study the behavior of protozoa such as amoebae using mathematical models and physical methods. I chose this lab because I am interested in elucidating life phenomena from mathematical and physical perspectives.

Currently, I am measuring the force (traction force) exerted on the ground by Amoeba proteus, a type of large amoeba, as it walks and moves across the surface. When we let the amoeba walk on a gel substrate embedded with beads, the gel deforms under the cell’s forces, causing the beads to move. By analyzing the displacement of these beads, we can estimate the magnitude and location of the traction force generated. We expect that clarifying the relationship between the spatial distribution of traction force and cell movement will not only deepen our understanding of cell movement mechanisms but also lay the groundwork for applications such as the development of soft robotics based on these principles. Moving forward, I plan to pursue doctoral studies and engage in international research activities.

RIES offers an environment where one can engage with cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research. Within a relatively flexible research style, it fosters the ability to independently set research goals and act. For those interested in joining the Institute, I highly recommend visiting the laboratories to experience the research atmosphere firsthand.

I’m Kenta Nakamura from the Nanosystem Optical Manipulation group. I chose this lab because I am fascinated by research that uses light to control matter—such as optical tweezers and nano-actuators—and because Prof. Tanaka’s phrase, “Let’s work on truly interesting research,” strongly resonated with me.

My current research focuses on optical angular momentum, the “rotation” carried by light. I aim to develop a new measurement system and use it to reveal spin–orbit angular momentum conversion caused by interactions between light and nanostructures. In simple terms, I am building a tool to measure the rotational information of light and understand how nanoscale structures modify it.

After completing my master’s program, I plan to pursue a PhD and advance this work toward a deeper understanding of light–nanostructure interactions. If possible, I would also like to gain international experience through overseas research, presentations, and collaborations.

My name is S L Aneesha, and I am a Ph.D. student in the Laboratory of Photonic Nanomaterials under Prof. Biju at the Research Institute for Electronic Science (RIES), Hokkaido University.
I was inspired to join RIES because of its interdisciplinary research environment, where chemistry, physics, and materials science converge. I chose the Laboratory of Photonic Nanomaterials for its research on semiconductor nanoparticles and quantum dots, integrating photophysical analysis with advanced time-resolved spectroscopy techniques to gain deeper insights into excitonic and charge carrier dynamics.

My research focuses on halide perovskite nanocrystals and their assembly into supercrystals. I investigate how these nanoscale building blocks are precisely aligned and how charge carriers interact within these ordered supercrystals to develop high-quality quantum optical materials.

Looking ahead, I aim to advance quantum nanomaterials research as an academic scientist and dedicated teacher. To students considering RIES, it offers world-class research facilities within a dynamic and international academic community.

My name is Natsume Motohashi, a first-year doctoral student in Professor Nagayama’s laboratory. Since my undergraduate years, I have been fascinated by mathematical modeling of natural phenomena — using equations to uncover the universal laws behind complex events.

My current research focuses on the mathematical analysis of self-propelled motion driven by surface tension. I study how a substance creates a surface-tension gradient at the liquid interface and moves spontaneously due to that non-uniformity — a camphor fragment on water being a classic example. This field is actively studied worldwide and has promising future applications in medicine, such as drug delivery systems. I strive to contribute these insights to society.

RIES brings together researchers from physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics — an ideal interdisciplinary environment for this work. We warmly welcome anyone considering joining us to visit the laboratory.

I am Mitsuki Yoshimura, a PhD candidate at the Laboratory of Functional Thin Film Materials (Prof. Ohta Lab). At Ohta Lab, we specialize in fabricating high-quality oxide thin films with atomically flat surfaces to develop next-generation functional devices.

Currently, I am developing “thermal switches” by electrochemically controlling the physical properties of oxide thin films. This research is deeply rewarding, combining the scientific challenge of unravelling thermal behaviors with the engineering novelty of dynamic control. I hope our work will contribute to the advancement of thermal management technologies.

RIES provides a vibrant international exchange and an interdisciplinary environment. Simultaneously, the serene nature surrounding the campus offers a perfect retreat for deep reflection. If you wish to settle into this peaceful environment and take on the challenge of unknown frontiers, I encourage you to visit our lab and experience this atmosphere for yourself.