学部・大学院区分
Undergraduate / Graduate

理学部

時間割コード
Registration Code

0680390

科目区分
Course Category

専門科目
Specialized Courses

科目名　【日本語】
Course Title

[G30]物理学特別実験

科目名　【英語】
Course Title

[G30]Graduation Research-Experiments

コースナンバリングコード
Course Numbering Code

担当教員　【日本語】
Instructor

野口巧 ○

担当教員　【英語】
Instructor

NOGUCHI Takumi ○

単位数
Credits

開講期・開講時間帯
Term / Day / Period

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授業形態
Course style

実験
Laboratory

学科・専攻
Department / Program

G30 Physics

必修・選択
Compulsory / Selected

See the “Course List and Graduation Requirements for your program for your enrollment year.

授業の目的　【日本語】
Goals of the Course(JPN)

実験コースを選択する学生は各実験系研究室に所属し、各研究室が用意する実験テーマのうち1つを選択して、1年間にわたって実験を行う。最先端の実験物理を通して物理学の知識を深めることを目的としている。

授業の目的　【英語】
Goals of the Course

Students who choose the experimental course belong to each laboratory and carry out physics experiments for one year in each laboratory.
The aim of this course is to deepen students' knowledge of physics through state-of-the-art experimental physics.

到達目標　【日本語】
Objectives of the Course(JPN))

各研究室で1年間に渡って行った実験結果と考察について発表できること。各研究室の具体的な研究内容については, 授業内容」の欄を参照のこと。

到達目標　【英語】
Objectives of the Course

By the end of the course, students will be able to present the results and discussions of experiments carried out in each laboratory over a year. For the specific research content of each laboratory, refer to the "Course content and structure".

授業の内容や構成
Course Content / Plan

Particle Physics

●F laboratory (Fundamental Particle Physics Laboratory)
Since 1980's, we have been carrying out researches for elementary particles physics with nuclear emulsion,which can individually record tracks of elementary particles in sub-micron accuracy. In 2000, for example, we succeeded to find tau neutrino for the first time in the world and established the existence of muon neutrino to tau neutrino oscillation in 2015.
The following are the themes of our current studies. We are also making efforts to develop and improve detectors related to particle physics and astrophysics to promote these themes.
F-1　Study of neutrino physics
The existence of neutrino mass was confirmed by the observation of neutrino oscillation. However, many characteristics are still unknown such as absolute value and hierarchy of mass. Does right-handed neutrino exist? Is the neutrino Majorana particle? Is the CP-violating phase in the lepton sector non-zero? Tackle these challenging issues.
F-2　Directional dark matter detection
NEWSdm is the experiment for dark matter (WIMPS) search with ultra-fine grain nuclear emulsion, which is possible to detect the very short trajectory of the recoil atom caused by collision of with nucleus and dark matter. The goal is to demonstrate its existence and incoming direction of dark matter. This experiment is being started at Gran Sasso Laboratory in Italy. We also promote experimental research to explore the possibilities of dark matter candidates other than WIMPS.
F-3　Balloon borne gamma-ray telescope
Unknown gamma-ray sources exist in Universe such as galactic center gamma-ray excess. To investigate these objects, we promote the GRAINE project, which is balloon-borne gamma-ray telescope with the world's largest diameter ultra-high resolution nuclear emulsion telescope.
We are currently analyzing the Australian flight data in May 2018 and are aiming to demonstrate imaging at the world's highest resolution of gamma-rays imaging. The next flight will be scheduled in 2023 and we are developing the largest telescope, which have the capability of scientific observation as well.
F-4　Development of particle detectors based on technologies including nuclear emulsion’s
We will progress with development of detectors based on nuclear emulsion technology.
Example 1) Detection of unknown short-range force: detection and measurement of wavefunctions of neutrons using ultra-fine grained nuclear emulsion.
Example 2) Development of automatic readout system for nuclear emulsion (speeding up, improvement of image detection)
Example 3) Production of nuclear emulsion from chemical substances and its development.
●N laboratory (High Energy Physics Laboratory)
N-1, N-2, N-3, N-4　Experimental Particle Physics
The goal of particle physics is the understanding of fundamental principles of elementary particles and their interactions. According to the Standard Model (SM), six quarks and six leptons are the fundamental constituents of the matter, and their interactions are mediated by the gauge bosons such as the photon and the W bosons. The SM explains the origin of particle masses by the Higgs mechanism. The N laboratory contributed to the verification of the SM; we confirmed the Kobayashi-Maskawa theory that explains the asymmetry between particles and antiparticles, and more recently discovered the Higgs boson. Now, the researches at the N laboratory focus on the searches for physics beyond the SM. We promote “Super B-Factory Experiment”, “LHC-ATLAS Experiment”, and “Muon g-2/EDM Experiment”. Our research would answer some of the fundamental questions in the Universe, e.g. “What is the Dark Matter?” and “How is the present matter-dominated Universe produced?”. The courses prepared for the fourth-grade students are shown in the following.
N-1　Super B-Factory Experiment
The B-factory experiment uses the KEKB collider located at the High Energy Accelerator Organization in Japan. The N laboratory played a leading role in the observation of CP violation in B meson decays, which verified the Kobayashi-Maskawa mechanism. Now, we are searching for physics beyond the SM via precision measurements of the B-meson and tau-lepton decays at the Super-KEKB collider, which provides 30 times higher luminosity than the KEKB. Research topics for students include analyses of data obtained at KEKB and Super-KEKB colliders and their simulation studies. The researches utilize high-quality computers owned by the N laboratory.
N-2　LHC-ATLAS Experiment
The LHC-ATLAS experiment is held at CERN located at Geneva, Switzerland. Proton-proton collisions are provided with the highest energy in the world. The N laboratory played a leading role in the development and the operation of the muon detectors, which were essential for the observation of the Higgs boson. We measured the top quark properties, studied the origin of muon mass, and searched for supersymmetric particles. Further searches for physics beyond the SM are ongoing. The students are expected to learn the basics of the LHC-ATLAS experiment through the development and the operation of the muon detectors as well as the analyses of the data.
N-3　Muon g-2/EDM Experiment
The g-2 is the anomalous magnetic dipole moment, a fundamental parameter of particle physics. The current measurement of muon g-2 is deviated from the SM prediction, which would be a hint of the physics beyond the SM. Aiming for more precise measurement with different sources of the systematic uncertainties, the N laboratory is preparing for a new experiment using the muon beam of the J-PARC accelerator at the High Energy Accelerator Organization in Japan. The students are expected to contribute to the development of a new system of the transportation and the diagnostics of the muon beam, a key element of the experiment.
N-4　Advanced Experimental Techniques
Frontiers of particle physics have been explored by advanced experimental techniques. In the N laboratory, a new particle detector called “TOP counter” was developed and installed for the super B-factory experiment. The TOP counter identifies the particle types by precise measurements (10 pico-second order) of Cherenkov photons generated in the quartz radiator. New photon detector for the TOP counter upgrade is under study. For the LHC-ATLAS experiment, a new attempt is ongoing for detecting the signatures of the physics beyond the SM by combinations of FPGA and machine learning. We also work on the techniques of muon acceleration, big data analysis, and applications of machine learning to data analyses and particle identifications. The students can contribute to these researches, which will possibly play essential roles in future discoveries.
●Φ laboratory (Laboratory of Particle Properties)
Experimental approaches to elementary particle physics can be categorized into two criteria: (1) direct observation of high energy particle reactions using high-energy accelerators (2) indirect observation of high energy phenomena in precision measurement of the contribution of higher-order quantum-loops of high-energy phenomena in low-energy processes. In the Phi-lab., slow neutrons from the most luminous pulsed neutron source at J-PARC (Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex) will be mainly used to probe the properties of elementary particles. We also use muon beam. The following is out list of on-going research items. We encourage students to consider to invent new approaches and welcome motivated students.
Φ-1　Neutron Decay Rate (Lifetime)
Neutron decay rate is a key parameter to define the weak interaction for quarks and also the primordial nucleosynthesis. Its experimental accuracy is still insufficient for precise verification of theoretical models. We are going to improve our understanding by improving accuracy and to search for non-standard interactions.
Φ-2　Study of the breaking of the symmetry under spatial-inversion and time-reversal in neutron-induced compound nuclei
Large violation of the symmetry between matter and antimatter is required in order to explain our universe. We are now studying the enhancement of the symmetry breaking in neutron-nuclei reactions. The search for the symmetry breaking in some reactions is independent of and competitively sensitive to that of neutron EDM. We are also developing some techniques for neutron spin control, polarization of target nuclei, and high-speed neutron detection to improve the sensitivity beyond standard model of particle physics.
Φ-3　Breaking of Time Reversal Symmetry (Neutron Electric Dipole Moment)
Neutron does not have the electric dipole moment (EDM) as long as the time-reversal symmetry is a valid symmetry. In reality, any non-zero value of neutron EDM has been measured so far. However, the asymmetry between matter and antimatter in the universe implies a finite value of EDM. The determination of neutron EDM is one of the most important observables to find a clue to the origin of the asymmetry. Extremely slow neutrons, that are sufficiently slow to be confined in bottles, are commonly applied for improving experimental sensitivity to the neutron EDM. We will study to apply precision neutron optics for measurements of neutron EDM. We are also trying to search the neutron EDM by measuring the effects of neutron wave through the non-centrosymmetric crystal.
Φ-4　Exotic Medium-range Forces (including extra-dimensions)
Gravitational interaction has been known to us before the physics was established, but least known in elementary particle physics due to its extraordinary weakness. However, the motion of slow neutrons apparently affected by geo-gravity since the neutral first order electromagnetism is missing for neutrons, that is electrically neutral. The advantage will be applied in the search for exotic medium-range forces including the search for possible effects of extra-dimensions and dark energy.
Φ-5　Muonium Hyperfine Structure
Muonium is an atom that consists of a positive muon and an electron. Its hyperfine structure can be analyzed theoretically due to the simple system only with two leptons. Ultra-precise spectroscopy of the hyperfine structure can be used to verify the standard theory of particles physics. Muonic helium, which is a helium atom with one negative muon instead of a electron, can be also used to study the fundamental symmetry of physics through its hyperfine structure.
In addition to above research items, we study “search for the violation of baryon number conservation law (also B-L violation) in neutron anti-neutron oscillation”.
●μ laboratory (Laboratory of Cosmic-Ray Imaging)
In this laboratory, we are developing a technology for non-destructive imaging of the interior of huge man-made structures and natural objects such as pyramids and volcanoes by visualizing cosmic-ray muons (cosmic ray imaging) with a track detector such as a nuclear emulsions. We are developing a nuclear emulsion, which is a technology for detecting cosmic rays, as well as application research specific to the visualization target of cosmic ray imaging, and furthermore, social implementation of the technology. We welcome students with a broad range of interests and motivation that are not bound by the existing framework of physics.
μ-1　Development of basic technology for cosmic ray imaging
We will develop fundamental technologies for cosmic ray imaging: 1. development of new nuclear emulsions with long term stability required for cosmic ray imaging by introducing technologies such as organic chemistry, 2. development of simulation technologies for cosmic ray imaging, 3. Development of technology to reconstruct three-dimensional density distribution of observed objects.
μ-2　Development of survey techniques for archaeological sites such as pyramids
Since 2015, we have been promoting the ScanPyramids project to explore the unknown internal structure of the pyramids in Egypt. We have discovered two unknown cavities inside the pyramid of Khufu, and we will continue to study the pyramid of Khafra and other pyramids as new research targets. We are developing new survey methods that do not damage archaeological sites all over the world, such as the temple pyramids of the Mayan civilization in Central and South America, including Honduras and Guatemala, and the Greek underground ruins in downtown Naples, Italy.
μ-3　Development of technologies for underground structure exploration and inspection of social infrastructure, including civil engineering structures
In recent years, cave-ins caused by underground cavities, river bank breaches caused by torrential rains, and aging social infrastructures have become social problems, and we are developing technologies to prevent such accidents by visualizing the interior of underground structures and civil engineering structures using cosmic ray imaging. These researches need to be carried out in cooperation with research institutes specializing in the visualization target, local governments and companies that have problems, and the development will be carried out with a view to social implementation.
μ-4　Development of new targets for cosmic ray imaging
We will develop new investigation targets, such as diagnosis of trees and deterioration of bridges, internal visualization of the giant volcano Mt. Fuji and so on.

Astrophysics

●A laboratory (Radio Astronomy Laboratory)
Understanding how stars and galaxies formed and have been evolved across the Hubble time is one of the biggest challenges in modern astrophysics. We are trying to address those big questions by millimeter / submillimeter observations of interstellar gas and dust in the Milky Way and external galaxies far away.
A-1　Submillimeter-wave observations of distant galaxies in the early universe
Distant star-forming galaxies which are rich in interstellar medium, such as gas and dust, give off a vast amount of energy in the far-infrared, which is cosmologically-redshifted and can be observed in the submillimeter wave in the present-day Universe. Students will exploit a series of multi-wavelength data, especially those taken with the ALMA submillimeter telescope, to investigate how star-formation and supermassive black hole growths are going in galaxies from the epoch of reionization (~100 million years after the Big Bang) to the present day. The students will learn data analysis techniques and radiative processes of interstellar media and study the physical properties of gas and stars in galaxies.
A-2　Development of instruments for the next-generation radio telescopes
Our research includes development of technologies for the next-generation submillimeter telescopes; (1) development of millimetric adaptive optics for instantaneously correcting radio wavefront disturbed by atmosphere and deformation of telescope optics, (2) development of data-scientific method to design the structure of a telescope, and (3) development of ultra-wideband spectrometers for high-redshift galaxy surveys, especially in terms of signal processing and data analysis software. We also plan to install those instruments on existing radio telescopes, such as the Nobeyama 45 m telescope, the ASTE 10 m telescope in Chile, and the 50 m Large Millimeter Telescope in Mexico. The students will join one of the projects and learn instrumentation basics.
A-3　Submillimeter-wave and microwave observations and data analyses of molecular and atomic clouds in the Galaxy and nearby galaxies.
Revealing the distribution and nature of the molecular and atomic gas clouds in the Galaxy and nearby galaxies is important for understanding formation of stars, planets and their birth clouds. For this sake, students join observations of spectral lines of molecules (e.g., CO, OH) and atoms (e.g., hydrogen and carbon), by using the NANTEN2 4 m submillimeter telescope we are operating in Atacama, Chile (remotely) and/or JAXA's Usuda 64 m microwave antenna in Nagano (on site) to learn how the telescope system works. The students will also learn how to analyze the data taken for the Galactic Center, high-latitude diffuse gas clouds, low/high mass star forming regions, supernova remnants, a Galactic micro-quasar, and nearby galaxies, etc.
A-4　Developments of the multi-beam heterodyne receiver system and software
In order to enhance NANTEN2's capability exploiting the good sky transparency in Atacama, we develop a new multi-beam receiver system and related software for telescope control and data analysis. We also develop cryogenic microwave receivers and data analysis software for the Usuda 64m antenna. Students will join development of those instruments, such as receivers, spectrometers, and software for instrument control and data analysis.
●U laboratory (Space Astronomy Laboratory)　
U-1, 2, 3, 4　Infrared Astrophysics （Uir）
The main purpose of our research is to understand the properties of dust grains and gas under various environments in galaxies through near- to far-infrared observations using space-borne and ground-based　telescopes. We have developed a far-infrared imaging spectrometer for AKARI, a Japan-led infrared　astronomical satellite. (U-1) We are analyzing AKARI data, in addition to other space and ground-based infrared observational data extensively, to pursue the above scientific researches. We are responsible for producing AKARI all-sky diffuse maps in the mid-infrared, which are uniquely designed to trace the distribution of organic matter in the interstellar space. (U-2) We are developing cryogenic optics and mid-/far-infrared detectors for future infrared astronomy satellite projects. (U-3) We are developing a near-infrared spectrometer as a new focal-plane instrument for the IRSF 1.4 m telescope in South Africa. We are also developing a far-infrared spectrometer to be carried aboard the balloon-borne 1 m telescope in India.
(U-4) Search for life in the universe toward understanding of the life.
More than 5000 planets have been discovered since 1995. Some of them may harbor life. To search for life in the universe, we will perform spectroscopy of the atmospheres of the planets orbiting nearby stars. This study aims to identify the life we search for by investigating how life co-evolved with Earth for 3.8 billion years. To establish the path to the search for life, we also develop a balloon-borne infrared interferometer with NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. A formation-flying interferometer using multiple small satellites will be realized with the space engineers of the Univ. of Tokyo.
U-5　Development of new instruments for X-ray and MeV gamma-ray astronomy (Uxg)
Universe is filled with hot and energetic phenomena, emitting strong X-rays. As these photons cannot penetrate our atmosphere, X-ray observation requires observatories in orbit. We are developing new devices to improve X-ray and MeV gamma-ray observations, such as; new X-ray telescope technology, innovative thermal control membrane technology, new hard X-ray imaging spectrometer and future sub-MeV Compton camera. Research on MeV gamma-ray emission from thundercloud is also on-going.
U-6　Observational X-ray astronomy (Uxg)
Using existing X-ray observatories and those to be launched soon, we are analyzing the X-ray observational data of high energy celestial objects, such as: stellar flares, Galaxy X-ray emission, Clusters of galaxies, black holes, neutron stars and others.

Condensed Matter Physics

●I laboratory (Solid State Magnetic Resonance Laboratory)
In our laboratory, The current research interests are focused on unraveling anomalous physical properties (quantum spin liquid, superconductivity, excitonic insulator) appearing in the condensed matter, 3d, 4d, 5d transition metal compounds or quantum fluid such as liquid helium.
First you learn magnetism, superconductivity, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) via some “Seminar” in our laboratory. Then you synthesize their interesting samples, performing x-ray diffraction and macroscopic measurements (electric resistivity, magnetic susceptibility) for its confirmation. You mainly perform NMR measurements to investigate their electronic properties. Based on the obtained experimental data, you discuss origin and mechanism of their magnetism and superconductivity. In the 4th grade, students will learn how to proceed with experimental research through research on the following experimental themes, and how to understand the physical properties of actual matter using the quantum mechanics, statistical physics, electromagnetism that you have learned so far.
I-1　Study of various and novel physical properties for strongly correlated electron system in which the degrees of freedom of charge, spin, and orbit are entwined.(quantum spin liquid, electronic nematic state)
I-2　For various iron-based superconductors, study of the mechanism of superconductivity from macroscopic physical quantities and microscopic ones. We also explore the electronic states of the related matters to iron-based superconductivity (transition metal chalcogenides/pnictides).
I-3　Studies of new helium quantum fluid with controlled dimensionality by confining helium into nano size pores by measure the thermal properties and magnetism.
I-4　Development of NMR probes used at high pressure and high temperature. Development of NMR-data-analysis programs and the expansion of the automation of NMR measurement. Development of cutting-edge technologies such as optical detected magnetic resonance. [These have the potential to lead to the design of new high-temperature superconductors in the future, and the core technology of quantum computers and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) that surpass conventional performance.]
●J laboratory (Laboratory of Nanomagnetism and Spintronics)
The group’s research focus is on nanoscale magnetism and spin related effects, aiming at discovering novel concepts in condensed matter physics. Research study in nanostructures allows us to address the challenging questions in the field of spin-related phenomena by artificially designing and fabricating nanostructures. A number of remarkable new physical effects have been already discovered by designing artificial interfaces, where strong electron-phonon-spin coupling emerges at nanoscale. Quite the opposite, revealing the physics underlying provides a fundamental basis and means for manipulating the physical phenomena. In this course, you will be trained in state of the art techniques such as growth of nanoscale materials, fabrication, and magnetic and transport measurements, and will enjoy the superb flavor of condensed matter physics. The group’s current research programs are divided into the following key themes.
J-1　Cross-correlations in multiferroic heterostructures
J-2　Spin dynamics in heterostructures with topological textures
J-3　Magnon propagation in exchange-biased heterostructures
J-4　Static and dynamic spin phenomena in artificial antiferromagnets
J-5　Electron correlations at magnetic/superconducting interfaces
●V laboratory　 (Laboratory of Condensed-Matter Physics of Functional Materials)
We are interested in the sample syntheses and precise measurements for useful and interesting materials. Our research field covers a wide variety of functional properties in correlated electron systems; a large thermoelectric power in transition-metal oxides, nonlinear conduction phenomena in organic conductors, and magneto-dielectric behavior in novel low-dimensional materials. Basic understanding of electromagnetism, thermal/statistical physics, and quantum mechanics is prerequisite for graduate research. Typical subjects are listed below:
V-1　New physical phenomena from competing orders
V-2 Search for colossal responses in new semimetals
V-3 New functional materials with unique crystal structure
●Y laboratory　 (Materials Response Laboratory)
Our group focuses on various response properties of materials, including the dielectric response, the optical response, the magnetic response, the thermal response, and the mechanical response. Based on their fundamental mechanisms clarified from a viewpoint of the structure-property relationship, we address designing of functional materials, which lead innovation in science and technology. Current themes in our lab are listed below:
Y-1 Environmentally-friendly functional dielectric materials
Y-2 Novel ferroelectric materials
Y-3 Novel properties in quasicrystals
Y-4　Search for new quasicrystals and approximants

Biophysics

●D laboratory　(Laboratory of Biomolecular Dynamics and Function)
Proteins are inherently dynamic molecules that undergo structural changes and interactions with other molecules over a wide timescale range, from nanoseconds to milliseconds or longer. Furthermore, protein motions play various important biological roles on assembly into protein complexes, ligand binding and enzymatic reactions. Therefore, understanding the dynamic behavior of a protein is a requisite for gaining insight into their function mechanisms. We develop novel methods for directly observing proteins’ dynamics based on high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM), which is one of scanning probe microscopy, and exploit new paradigm of dynamic structural biology. Also we analyze structural dynamics of rhodopsin at atomic resolution using X-ray crystallographic technics for understanding the molecular mechanism and creating new functional GPCRs.
D-1　Direct observation of dynamic behavior of biological molecules and elucidating theirs function mechanisms
Unique functions of proteins are often elicited by global conformational changes after local ones due to environmental change, ligand bind and molecular interactions. We observe the conformational dynamics of molecules such as motor and membrane proteins with HS-AFM and elucidate molecular mechanisms of the protein’s functions.
D-2　Developments of novel microscopy techniques for single-molecule biophysics
In biological molecules, not only structures but also local electric and mechanical properties play crucial roles for physiological functions. We develop novel functions of HS-AFM enabling local mapping of various properties in addition to topography of biological molecules. Further we develop combined systems of HS-AFM with state-of-art single-molecule imaging techniques such as single-molecule fluorescence microscopy towards analysis of more complex biological systems.
D-3　Development and Application of Novel Methods for Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Artificial Polymer Materials
HS-AFM has recently attracted attention as a technique for investigating the nanoscale structure and mechanical properties of artificial supramolecules, polymer gels, and polymer films. We study the mechanical stability of polymer particles and their water dispersions (synthetic latex) with sizes ranging from several tens of nanometers to several micrometers, and the control factors of particle degradation in response to multiple stimuli by nanoscale measurement using high-speed AFM.
D-4　X-ray structural biology of rhodopsin
We perform structural analysis on conformational dynamics of rhodopsin during the photocycle using advanced synchrotron radiation and newly developed X-ray free-electron laser to understand the molecular mechanism of activation rhodopsin. We also challenge to create novel functional rhodopsins on the basis of these accurate structures.
●G laboratory　(Photo-Bioenergetics Laboratory)
Proteins are extremely elaborate ‘nano-devices’ that have been formed during evolution for 4 billion years. Photosynthesis performed by plants and cyanobacteria realizes light-energy conversion with an extremely high quantum yield using a number of pigments and metal ions embedded in proteins. To understand this most basic and significant biological process, it is necessary to clarify the mechanisms of light-energy conversion in the photosynthetic ‘nano-devices’. In our laboratory, we investigate the molecular mechanisms of the reactions in photosynthetic proteins using various physical methods such as vibrational spectroscopy, electron spin resonance, and quantum chemical calculations. Students in the 4th grade challenge their own research themes mastering basic experimental and analytical techniques, like preparations of biological samples, spectroscopic measurements, and analyses using computer calculations.
G-1　Mechanism of light-energy conversion in photosynthetic proteins
In photosynthesis, successive processes of light absorption, excitation transfer, charge separation, electron transfer, and proton transfer take place upon light illumination in the time scale from femtoseconds to milliseconds. It is also possible to trap the intermediate states after charge separation at cryogenic temperatures. The molecular mechanism of light-energy conversion in photosynthesis is investigated by detecting reactions and intermediates in photosynthetic proteins using various spectroscopic methods.
G-2　Molecular mechanism of photosynthetic oxygen evolution
The mechanism of photosynthetic oxygen evolution remains to be the biggest mystery in photosynthesis researches. Although oxygen evolution is known to be performed by water oxidation at the Mn4CaO5 cluster in photosystem II protein complexes, the detailed reaction mechanism has not been well understood. We challenge the clarification of water oxidation mechanism utilizing spectroscopic methods such as infrared spectroscopy and electron spin resonance.

●K laboratory　(Laboratory of Cellular Signaling Biophysics)
Our laboratory aims at understanding the mechanisms of the information conversion and communication occurring in biological systems at the molecular and cellular levels. We focus on the mechanisms of protein folding / complex formation as the research at the molecular level (K-1). We also focus on the mechanisms of communication between nerve cells at the synapse as the research at the cellular level (K-2). The specific aims and the details of the research are described below.
K-1　Protein folding mechanisms
Proteins are biological macromolecules consisting of a series of amino acids, and indispensable in almost all aspects of biological phenomena. Proteins play their roles in biological systems only after they form their own specific three-dimensional structures and often multimeric complex. The conversion from an ensemble of the unstructured conformations without biological functions to the specific native structures is referred to as protein folding. There are many questions to be addressed in their physicochemical mechanisms although the protein folding / assembly is important in that these phenomena are associated with biology as well as molecular science. For the purpose of addressing the questions, our laboratory studies the mechanisms of proteins folding / assembly by means of our own ultrarapid mixing devices and spectroscopy. The details of the course are molecular biology to construct variant proteins, expression and purification of proteins, spectroscopic measurements of proteins and kinetic measurements of protein folding / assembly.
K-2　Research on the mechanism of synaptic transmission
In the nervous system, communications between nerve cells are executed through chemical synapses. In the presynaptic process, inflow of Ca2+ through Ca2+ channels opened by an action potential triggers the exocytosis of neurotransmitter through the fusion of synaptic vesicles with presynaptic membrane. When nerve is repeatedly stimulated, the amount of transmitter released gradually increases. This phenomenon, synaptic plasticity, is essential for higher function of brain as memory and learning. You study about the presynaptic mechanism and its regulation, especially modulation of transmitter release and dynamics of divalent cations, with the preparation of frog neuromuscular junction synapses using electrophysiological methods and ion-imaging techniques.

Heliospheric and Geospace Physics

●AM laboratory (Atmospheric and Environmental Science Laboratory)
The atmospheric environment on the Earth has been affected by various anthropogenic causes of human activities since the industrial revolution, including the recent increase of greenhouse gases and the depletion of the ozone layer. On the other hand, the atmosphere is also affected by a variety of natural causes, such as changes in UV radiation and solar wind associated with the solar activities, galactic cosmic rays from space, and volcanic activities on the Earth. In order to predict the future atmospheric environment more accurately, it is necessary to clarify the mechanisms and effects of the atmospheric changes by the natural and anthropogenic factors. In AM Laboratory, we use state-of-the-art millimeter-wave (radio) and infrared remote sensing techniques to study the mechanism of

履修条件
Course Prerequisites

実験系研究室に配属が決定していること。

Allocation to the experimental laboratory has been made.