Yamagishi Laboratory

— Create life-like reactions and small devices using chemistry and physics —

Message

We explore one of the most fundamental questions in science: What makes matter come alive? To explore this topic, we design minimal molecular systems capable of self-replication and evolution—mirroring what molecules were supposed to be in the very beginning of life 4 billion years ago.
Our interests also extend to creating small organic devices that bridge the gap between living and nonliving matter, including optical probes, sensors, lasers, and displays designed to function under biologically relevant conditions.

Positions Available

Postdoctoral Scholars: No available position at this time. If you have any independent funding, please send an email to Hiroshi Yamagishi.
Graduate Students: Prospective graduate students are encouraged to contact Hiroshi Yamagishi by email. Fellowship programs offered by MEXT and the University of Tsukuba—subject to availability—may cover most of your accommodation fees.
Undergraduate Students: Prospective students in the College of Engineering Sciences and in the IDE programs are encouraged to contact Hiroshi Yamagishi by email.

Research

Topic 1: Molecular machines and sensors operative in human body

The human body is a complex and dynamic system, still full of mysteries waiting to be uncovered. One straightforward strategy for probing its inner workings is to implant miniature sensors capable of detecting biological signals and transmitting them as optical outputs. In our lab, we design and assemble micrometer-scale organic laser devices that function within physiological environments, aiming to enable precise, real-time diagnostics within the body.

    Related articles

  1. Chem. Commun. 2023, 59, 1477.
  2. Science 2022, 377, 673.
  3. ACS Appl. Polym. Mater. 2022, 4, 1065.

Topic 2: Life-like flexible or fluidic laser devices

The human eye is an extraordinary optical system, offering high-resolution imaging along with automatic focus and angle adjustment. Inspired by these biological capabilities, we believe that soft, organic materials—rather than rigid, traditional components—hold the key to replicating such complex functions. Guided by this vision, our lab is developing flexible and fluidic laser devices, including optical fibers, lasers oscillators, and displays, that mimic the adaptability and performance of living systems.

    Related articles

  1. Adv. Mater. 2025, 37, 2413793.
  2. Laser Photonics Rev. 2023, 377, 2200874.
  3. Adv. Opt. Mater. 2022, 4, 2101808.

Topic 3: Artificial Life

The boundary between artificial matter and living systems remains one of the most profound scientific mysteries. We aim to bridge this gap by assembling molecular systems that mimic the simplest forms of life. Our research focuses on chemical self-replication and evolution—key processes to underpin the origin of life. To approach this challenge, we integrate concepts and techniques from optical physics and molecular biology.

    Related articles

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