International Research Center for Elements Science

With the concept of “elemental science” as a base, we create ground-breaking functional materials with element-derived characteristic properties.
This center has two joint laboratories in other divisions.

https://www.scl.kyoto-u.ac.jp/~ircels/en/

Prof NAKAMURA, Masaharu (D Sc)

We are focusing on the discovery, design and developments of new molecules and molecular transformations, which enable efficient utilization of chemical resources, such as universal and ubiquitous metals (Fe, Mg, Al, Si, Zn, etc.), as well as biorenewables (lignin and amino acid, polyols, etc.).

Prof SHIMAKAWA, Yuichi (D Sc)

We investigate the fundamental chemistry and physics of “functional oxides” and seek innovative materials with new functional properties. High-pressure synthesis and epitaxial thin-film growth are our characteristic techniques to prepare new materials. We also focus on research with technological applications such as employing oxide materials for electronic devices.

Prof OHKI, Yasuhiro (D Eng)

The development of efficient processes for energy conversion and material synthesis is one of the key issues to be solved for sustainable societies. We focus on the synthesis of sophisticated “clusters”, which stand for molecules with multiple transition metal atoms. These cluster molecules are then applied as catalysts, for instance in the catalytic reduction of CO2 or N2.

Prof KANEMITSU, Yoshihiko (D Eng)

Quantum optical properties of semiconductors are studied by space-resolved ultrafast laser, and terahertz spectroscopies, with the aim of developing opt-nanoscience and also designing new materials. In particular, we focus on elucidating optical properties of perovskite semiconductors and atomically thin materials and their photoelectric conversion processes for realizing carbon-neutral society.