We investigate the diversity, ecology, and public health impacts of microorganisms in the environment — from the air we breathe to water sources and soil. Our laboratory combines cutting-edge metagenomics and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis with field sampling, including aircraft-based atmospheric collection, to understand how bacteria (including antimicrobial-resistant strains) travel through the environment and affect human health.
Students joining through the 3+1 Program will have the opportunity to participate in one of the following research themes:
* Bioaerosol Science: Sampling and analyzing airborne microorganisms using our unique bioaerosol chamber housed in an ISO Class 100-equivalent cleanroom facility.
* Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in the Environment: Investigating drug-resistant bacteria in water and air samples using genomic approaches — a critical topic for global One Health initiatives.
* Portable Pathogen Detection: Contributing to the development and field testing of rapid, portable detection systems for pathogens such as avian influenza — technology designed for use in resource-limited settings.

Approximately two participants (to be discussed)

* No specific prerequisites in microbiology are required; students with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, environmental science, agriculture, or public health are welcome.
* Our laboratory has active international collaborations with institutions in Chile, Brazil, the United States (DOE Joint Genome Institute, Harvard University), and Spain (ISGlobal Barcelona), offering exposure to a truly global research network.
* Working language in the laboratory is English.
* Applicants should demonstrate curiosity about environmental health challenges and a willingness to learn new laboratory and bioinformatics techniques.

Please submit the required documents through IAAS. The application deadline is 5:00 pm (JST) on Thursday, March 19th, 2026.  

For more details of the required application documents in the program, please refer to the application guideline. You need to clearly indicate in your application materials, such as your resume, how you meet the additional requirements from the lab. 

To register for IAAS, please visit the following website: 

IAAS (International Admissions Assistant System)

Please note that applications are exclusively open to students from our partner universities. Partner universities will announce the application details to their students when the application period begins.

The selection process begins with a review of applicants' submitted documents. Candidates who pass this initial document screening will be invited for an interview.

Final acceptance will be based on the interview results, with successful applicants demonstrating the ability to effectively carry out the research activities required from each laboratory. Document screening will take place in March-April, and interviews for shortlisted candidates will be conducted in May-June.