2025 Activity Report vol.7:Okayama University

We invited eight young researchers and graduate students from Nagaland University and related institutions in Nagaland, India, from October 26 to November 1, 2025, and implemented a Course A "Science and Technology Experience Course" under the exchange theme "Fundamentals, Environmental Adaptation, and Applications of Photosynthesis." Through this program, we aimed to deepen academic exchange between young researchers and graduate students from Japan and India, while also providing the participants with opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese science, technology, culture, traditions, and history.

[Day 1]

The group arrived at Kansai International Airport in the afternoon. The program coordinator welcomed them at the airport and accompanied them to Okayama by train.

[Day 2]

The group visited the Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (RIIS) at Okayama University's Tsushima Campus.
　First, the program coordinator provided an overview of the program and introduced Okayama University, which was followed by a lecture on Japanese plant ecology by Professor Makiko Mimura. Afterwards, a campus tour was conducted together with our graduate students, during which participants observed the vegetation on campus. After the program, the group visited KORAKUEN garden and OKAYAMA CASTLE.

[Day 3]

The group again visited the RIIS and toured the laboratories of the photosynthesis research group guided by Prof. Jian-Ren Shen. The participants were shown equipment for cultivating photosynthetic organisms, purifying and analyzing photosynthetic proteins, and instruments used for protein structural analysis. Professor Michi Suga then gave a lecture on structural analysis of proteins. Subsequently, the group observed the cryo-electron microscope facilities and a sample preparation system for tomography located in the neighboring Innovation Center. The participants showed strong interest in the state-of-the-art facilities for protein complex structural analysis, which represent one of the major strengths of the RIIS.

[Day 4]

The group visited the Institute of Plant Science and Resources (IPSR) at Okayama University's Kurashiki Campus. On the way from the station, they toured the historical Kurashiki Bikan District, known for its traditional Edo-period townscape. In the afternoon, Professor Wataru Sakamoto introduced the research activities of the Institute, Professor Michael Hippler presented recent research progress in photosynthesis, and Professor Matthias Rögner discussed the importance of photosynthesis research.
　Additionally, Ms. Neingusanuo Kire introduced the culture, traditions, and natural environment of Nagaland, and Dr. Meguovilie Sachu gave a research presentation on photosynthesis inhibitors using cyanobacteria.

[Day 5]

The group traveled from Okayama to Kyoto. They visited Professor Kentaro Ifuku at Kyoto University for research exchange and later toured Kyoto City, including temples such as Kiyomizu-dera and Kōdai-ji, which represent traditional Japanese temple architecture.

[Day 6]

At the Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Professor Ifuku gave a lecture on photosynthesis in algae such as green algae and diatoms. The group then toured the laboratory and engaged in discussions with graduate students and young researchers (photo07). In the evening, the group moved to a hotel in Rinku Town near Kansai Airport.

[Day 7]

The group checked out of the hotel before 8:00 AM and traveled from Rinku Town to Kansai International Airport.

Despite being a short-term program, we were able to conduct meaningful academic exchange on the fundamentals, environmental adaptation, and applications of photosynthesis at both Okayama University and Kyoto University. The participants also had valuable opportunities to experience Japanese culture and history in Okayama and Kyoto. We express our sincere gratitude to all faculty and staff at Okayama University and Kyoto University for their generous support and cooperation, which made the program highly successful.