In the laboratory, graduate students and postdoctoral researchers work together with the
principal investigators as a
team to elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing gene expression regulation involved in
morphogenesis. Each student
has an independent research theme. We embrace the originality in thinking and respect the
enthusiasm in research
attitude.
Most of our graduate students have taken entrance examinations to join us from schools other
than Kyoto
University. We invite you to join us in our quest to elucidate new “molecular mechanisms” of living
organisms through a steady yet efficient research lifestyle. If you have any questions about
specific research topics,
research environment, or the atmosphere of our laboratory, please feel free to contact us.
Laboratory tours and academic
counseling are available at any time, on-line or in-person.
Join us!
Contact *Please convert <at>to @
Tomohiko TSUGE
tsuge<at>scl.kyoto-u.ac.jp
Message from the members
Message from the members
The first surprise as a graduate student was discovering that “not much is known about nature”. Understanding each uncharted area of mother nature has been a fascinating journey in my science. Generating viewpoints and ideas that are unique to me, has been something I have cherished most. Come join us in embracing that AHA! moment together!
To elucidate the mechanisms involved in plant cell morphogenesis, my research focuses on genetic approaches using Arabidopsis thaliana and observation using confocal laser microscopy. Contact us for further information on the research.
I am originally from Iran. I am fascinated by plant morphogenesis, particularly the regulatory pathways that assist plants in this process. In my Ph.D. project, I worked on cell biogenesis during root hair development. When I am not in the lab, I enjoy watching anime, listening to audio books, and riding a bicycle. Being part of the Molecular Biology Lab provided me with a valuable opportunity to deepen my understanding of plant biology and gain insights about myself.
In this laboratory, PhD students can develop the skills to manage entire research process from plant growth and preparation of equipment to research presentations. It is a valuable environment where supervisors, rather than senior mentors, directly provide detailed guidance such as how to handle chemicals and how to choose terminology in presentations. By the time you complete your PhD, you will have expertise to conduct your own research in any laboratory.
As an undergraduate I became interested in genetics, however, I was assigned to a plant physiology laboratory. Though the research was interesting there, my interest in genetics became stronger. Finally joining this lab as a graduate student, I specialize in plant molecular genetics and plant physiology. I enjoy learning genetics and being surrounded by flowers every day, while making use of the knowledge I gained in my undergraduate studies.
I applied to this lab considering the spacious bench space and the thorough supervision. The two to three ratio of students per supervisors allows attention and guidance we need. In preparation for my entrance examination, I was encouraged by the generous advice from the lab members. Two years have passed since I joined the lab, and I am enjoying my time here. I also like the fact that Uji is a quiet environment which allows me to concentrate on my research.
Here I share my experience during my preparation for the entrance exam. When I applied to graduate school, I had to study a slightly different field from what I had specialized in at undergraduate studies. My preparation for the exam began with obtaining the textbook “Essential Cell Biology”. After 3 weeks of serious studying with the textbook, I managed to pass the exam! Now, I am enjoying my time here every day!
Unlike the exam for master's program, Ph.D. program, requires English as the only written exam. The level of the questions is not difficult, but the time is limited. You can bring a dictionary, but it should be used as a last resort. Currently, you can submit your English scores from certain outsourced exams. Carefully read the latest application guidelines. My presentation interview came with tough and unexpected questions. It is best to discuss your future research plan with the lab in advance.
Entrance examination
All students in our laboratory are enrolled in the "Biomolecular Information Science" course, Biophysics Department, Biological Science Division in the Faculty of Science, at Kyoto University.
For international applicants, graduate school admission schedule of Kyoto University is here.
Scholarships are available here. Schedule ahead of time!
About our lab
Research environment
Approachable faculty members with flexible supervision.
Location
Location at the Institute for Chemical Research allows interdisciplinary collaborative research. Spacious and cozy lab environment brews novel science with the spice of multi-cultural members. See more in the "Lab tour" page.
Members graduated from:
University of the Philippines Mindanao, Shiraz University, Shanxi University, Ochanomizu University, University of Hyogo, Kumamoto University, Nara Women's University, Kobe University, Osaka City University, Osaka Prefecture University, Kyoto Institute of Technology, University of Tsukuba, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Yokohama National University, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Saitama University, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ehime University,
After graduation:
National University of Singapore, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Nagoya University, Maruho Co., TAKII & Co., TransGen Biotech Co., Fukujuen, Hamilton Company Japan, Nestlé Japan, Olympus Co., Kirin Holdings Co., YAMATO NOEN Co., etc.
Collaboration
RIKEN Institute, University of Tokyo, Nagoya University, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Yamaguchi University, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Ochanomizu University, Waseda University, Yale University, Peking University, University of Rome "La Sapienza”, CNR-IBBA, CNB-CSIC, Adam Mickiewicz University, Bielefeld University, University of Cambridge, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Dong-A University, University of Amsterdam, Rockefeller University, etc.
History
Established in 1981 carrying a mission to advance nucleic acids research in Japan (MEXT funded facility). We have been frontiers of DNA/RNA research ever since.