Human and Life Science

In aims of realizing cities, houses, and mobility where people can be in “well-being^*1” and establishment of a design methodology of products and services supporting the well-being, we conduct research on the mechanisms of human physical functions, cognitive functions, emotions, and sociality based on life science and ergonomics.
In addition to monitoring physical and mental condition as well as biological aspects where people live, we work on the research of devices and systems to augment the physical and cognitive functions. Furthermore, we conduct research on the analysis of natural environments and ecosystems that aim to increase the sustainability and biodiversity of the earth and society, as well as on biomanufacturing technologies which utilize the function of living organisms.
*1: Well-Being: A state of complete physical, mental and social condition

Core Technologies

Applied Microbiology, Plant Molecular Biology and Physiology, Biomedical Engineering, Human Machine Interface, Experimental Psychology, Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, System Genome Science

Symbiotic Spaces with Plants and Microorganisms

Symbiosis with nature is a challenge that we must consider for a well-being future society. We focus on various powers of nature and clarify their scientific mechanisms. Our goal is to create a symbiotic space that nurtures people’s health and love for nature by incorporating natural factors into daily living spaces. We also work on creating spaces where people can be healthy, creative, and more based on environmental DNA analysis that reveals the biodiversity of nature and rich microbial flora. We also study the mechanisms by which visual, auditory, and olfactory stimuli affect people.^*2
*2: Collaborative project with Toyota Motor Corporation

A symbiotic space with plants and microbes based on a greened office

Digital Human Model

We have been working on experimental analysis and numerical modeling of driver’s, passenger’s and pedestrian’s body to create safe automobiles that reduce injuries during collisions and provide a comfortable ride. The model and insights from the researches are utilized in model-based design of automobiles. Our research targets are currently expanded to include emotions, creativity, and sociality. We conduct research to clarify and model their neural and biochemical mechanisms. We also acquire big data related to each individual’s motion, physiological and psychological state, behavior, team productivity in intellectual activities, which are utilized in analysis of correlation and causality between the wellbeing and such measurable data.