PRESTO

Japan Science and Technology Agency Strategic Basic Research Programs
Strategic Basic Research Programs

[Measurement and Anlysis Foundation] Year Started : 2025

Hirofumi Akamatsu

Building a Knowledge Base for Crystal Structure Distortion Mechanisms

Grant No.:JPMJPR25J1

Researcher : Hirofumi Akamatsu
Photo:Hirofumi Akamatsu

Associate Professor
Graduate School of Engineering
Kyushu University

Outline

Crystal structure distortions and related phase transitions are closely linked to material properties. In this study, we will systematically investigate distortions in crystalline compounds using group theory, first-principles calculations, crystal-chemistry analysis, and machine learning. We aim to build a knowledge base that clarifies the mechanisms and driving forces of structural distortions through both verbal and visual representations. This will advance the theoretical understanding of structure–property relationships and support the discovery and development of new materials.

Takashi Ichii

Probing Two-Body Interactions in Molten Metals: A Theoretical Framework Based on Compositional and External Field Responses

Grant No.:JPMJPR25J2

Researcher : Takashi Ichii
Photo:Takashi Ichii

Associate professor
Faculty of Engineering
Kyoto University

Outline

Interactions between objects in molten metals are crucial for the development of dispersion-strengthened alloys and high-purity metal refining processes, yet they have been challenging to measure. In this research, we will develop an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) for molten metals, capable of high-speed and high-sensitivity analysis at high temperatures, to directly measure these interactions. Furthermore, we will build a system to introduce external fields, such as electric fields and light, at the molten metal/solid interface. By measuring the resulting modulation of interaction forces, we aim to establish a theory of two-body interaction forces in molten metals.

Ayumi Kasagi

Development of a High-speed XAFS Spectrum Analysis Method Using Multimodal Deep Learning

Grant No.:JPMJPR25J3

Researcher : Ayumi Kasagi
Photo:Ayumi Kasagi

Assistant Professor
Office for Research Initiatives and Development
Doshisha University

Outline

This project aims to develop a method that enables even non-experts to rapidly analyze XAFS spectra, which have traditionally required skilled researchers employing databases and supercomputers. By harnessing multimodal deep learning, it will establish real-time analysis techniques capable of handling the massive data obtained at synchrotron radiation facilities such as NanoTerasu. Furthermore, the developed model will enable the detection and discovery of unknown structures through anomaly detection, thereby building a foundation for industry–academia collaboration and constructing a novel analysis process that advances fundamental science.

Sooyeon Kim

Establishing a 3D optical imaging platform for the analysis of material formation processes

Grant No.:JPMJPR25J4

Researcher : Sooyeon Kim
Photo:Sooyeon Kim

Assistant Professor
Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
The University of Tokyo

Outline

While the hierarchical formation pathways of supramolecular materials are essential for determining their final structures and performances, these processes remain largely unexplored due to the limitations of conventional methods in capturing real-time structural changes in solution. In this study, I will establish a 3D optical imaging platform that enables visualization of the formation processes and internal structures of supramolecular materials. Furthermore, by integrating molecular information and physical properties, an analytical framework will be constructed to elucidate the correlations between structure and function.

Kaoruho Sakata

Multimodal Characterization of Electrode Solid–Liquid Interfaces Using Quantum Beams

Grant No.:JPMJPR25J5

Researcher : Kaoruho Sakata
Photo:Kaoruho Sakata

Associate Professor
Institute of Materials Structure Science
High Energy Accelerator Research Organization

Outline

In this study, we aim to develop and advance real-time operando analytical techniques using quantum beams, such as soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy and infrared absorption spectroscopy, to observe chemical reactions occurring at electrode solid–liquid interfaces during electrochemical processes. Furthermore, we employ first-principles calculations to provide theoretical support for the experimentally observed reaction intermediates. Through this research, we seek to deepen our understanding of catalytic activity, reaction dynamics, and the properties contributing to activity in electrode-catalyzed reactions.

Shun Hashiyada

Establishing Optical Spin and Orbital Angular Momentum Control Techniques for Chiral Light Dichroism Spectroscopy

Grant No.:JPMJPR25J6

Researcher : Shun Hashiyada
Photo:Shun Hashiyada

Assistant Professor
Research Institute for Electronic Science
Hokkaido University

Outline

This project seeks to establish a measurement platform for the highly sensitive and quantitative extraction of optical dichroism arising from the geometric chirality of matter, by employing chiral light endowed with both spin and orbital angular momentum. Specifically, I will develop modulation and analysis techniques of optical angular momentum applicable to spatial scales relevant to nanomaterial characterization (nanoscale regions beyond the diffraction limit) and to energy scales ranging from the ultraviolet to the infrared. By enabling the visualization of forms of chirality that have remained inaccessible through conventional methodologies, this research will establish a new principle of Chiral Light Dichroism Spectroscopy.

Ryota Fukuzawa

Establishing the Fundamental Principles of Heat and Carrier Transport through the Development of Novel Nanometrology Methods

Grant No.:JPMJPR25J7

Researcher : Ryota Fukuzawa
Photo:Ryota Fukuzawa

Assistant professor
Graduate School of Science and Technology
Nara Institute of Science and Technology

Outline

Heat and charge are closely related in solids, and understanding both heat and charge transport is essential for elucidating transport phenomena and thermoelectric properties. This research aims to develop a novel method, based on advanced atomic force microscopy, that enables simultaneous analysis of temperature and potential distributions at the nanoscale. Furthermore, the developed technique will be applied to the characterization of thermoelectric materials, with the goal of establishing the fundamental principles of heat and charge transport at the nanoscale.

Hiroyuki Fujii

Spectroscopy based on light scattering and propagation models

Grant No.:JPMJPR25J8

Researcher : Hiroyuki Fujii
Photo:Hiroyuki Fujii

Associate Professor
Faculty of Engineering
Hokkaido University

Outline

Evaluating particle properties, such as the distribution of nano- and micro-sized particles and the degree of agglomeration, in dense colloidal suspensions is of great importance in various industries, such as chemical and food engineering. However, most existing techniques require destructive pre-processing, including dilution or solidification of the sample, which can alter its original state. This research project aims to develop a non-destructive, quantitative spectroscopic method for evaluating particle properties in dense suspensions. The approach leverages simulation data derived from models of light scattering by colloidal particles and light propagation through the suspension.

Koki Yamada

Coherent diffraction imaging with formula-driven deep learning

Grant No.:JPMJPR25J9

Researcher : Koki Yamada
Photo:Koki Yamada

Associate Professor
Institute of Engineering
Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology

Outline

In coherent diffraction imaging (CDI), numerous studies have explored the use of information science to compensate for inherent measurement limitations. However, the high measurement cost and related constraints make it difficult to obtain large-scale training datasets, which has prevented the broader application of deep learning. In this study, we will establish pipeline for generating large volumes of high-quality, computer-simulated training data that closely replicate actual measurement conditions, using formul-driven supervised learning. Based on this pipeline, we aim to develop a deep learning model that addresses the measurement limitations .

Yuichi Yokoyama

Establishing a foundational framework for synchrotron radiation science via Bayesian multimodal hierarchical modeling

Grant No.:JPMJPR25JA

Researcher : Yuichi Yokoyama
Photo:Yuichi Yokoyama

Researcher
Industrial Application and Partnership Division
Japan Synchrotron Radiation Research Institute

Outline

The foundation of next-generation synchrotron radiation science lies in the multimodal integration of data from synchrotron radiation and other advanced measurements. This research will focus on the hierarchical structure underlying the measurement data to build a framework for integrating multimodal data at the level of physical phenomena. I will also address the critical challenge of estimating the unique background of each measurement method, which is key to successful integration. Furthermore, by embedding this framework into the experimental apparatus, I will create a powerful synergy between measurement and analysis.

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