Based on the spatially and temporally controlled and induced excited molecular chemistry of light and radiation, we study reaction-controlled chemistry that exploits the steric, temporal, electronic, structural, and chemical properties of molecules and reaction fields. Nanosecond to femtosecond laser flash photolysis, pulse radiolysis, and space-time resolved single molecule fluorescence microscopy are used to promote the following research.

• 1. Excited molecular chemistry using multi-wavelength, multi-laser, multi-step excitation
  2. Photocatalysis
  3. Development of methods for biomolecular analysis and diagnosis at the single molecule level
  4. Dynamics of conformational change and chemical reaction of biomolecules
• 5. Bioscience using light and radiation

Topic 1

「Highly Active Excited-State Chemistry with Light and Electron Beams」

Since the control of excited states as precursors is essential for controlling excited reactions in the liquid and solid phases, we are investigating the molecular and material chemistry of highly active excited states by irradiating light or electron beams in a spatially and temporally controlled manner. Using ultrafast spectroscopy as the main measurement tool, we are clarifying fundamental physical chemistry such as dynamics and reactivity specific to highly excited states of molecules and materials, and are also developing applications such as enhancement of photocatalytic activity based on charge-transfer dynamics.

Topic 2

「Development of chemical technologies that use light and radiation to reveal the mechanisms of life」

The objective of this project is to develop innovative chemical technologies for imaging and controlling living cells by means of light and radiation. By freely utilizing photochemical reactions and radiation chemistry, and designing and synthesizing photofunctional hybrid molecules and materials, we will develop methods for biological imaging and optical manipulation, develop energy-conversion materials, and develop methods for biological imaging and manipulation of functions by light, thereby developing applied research in bioscience. We develop the materials for energy conversion and the methods to manipulate the functions by bio-imaging and light.