School of Science

Professor Mito Takeshi

The properties of many materials are determined by the state of the electrons they contain. One of the themes we have been intensively researching recently is Dirac electrons, which are considered to have zero mass and are expected to be applied in future low-power devices and quantum computers. Our research group was the first in the world to reveal, through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments using superconducting magnets, that Dirac electrons emerge when black phosphorus, an allotrope of phosphorus, is pressurized.

School of Engineering

Associate Professor Junichi Inamoto

Power generation using renewable energy requires the use of stationary storage batteries for power leveling. Lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used as storage batteries, use resources such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper, and there is a risk that the batteries will not be manufactured in the future due to soaring raw material prices or supply disruptions. Therefore, we are engaged in research and development to realize secondary batteries that use inexpensive raw materials with no resource supply risk.

School of Science

Assistant Professor Motoharu Kitatani

Superconductivity is a phenomenon where electrical resistance drops to zero at low temperatures, making it promising for applications such as lossless energy storage. Recently, it has also been used as an element in quantum computers, with potential applications across various fields. The biggest challenge in advancing these real-world applications is the low temperature at which superconductivity occurs. To address this issue, we aim to elucidate the mechanisms of superconductivity through theoretical calculations and design superconducting materials that operate at higher temperatures.

Graduate School of Science

Professor Tomohiro Agou

From displays and lighting to solar cells, our lives are based on technologies that convert electrical and light energy. Improving the efficiency of energy conversion between electricity and light is a crucial challenge for achieving a sustainable society. By leveraging the characteristics of various main group elements, I am developing functional materials based on organic chemistry, such as 'blue light-emitting materials for organic EL,' 'near-infrared light-absorbing dye materials,' and 'high-transparency polymer materials'.

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.