2025 Activity Report vol.27:Kwansei Gakuin University

From December 7 to 27, 2025, Wakabayashi Laboratory at the School of Engineering, Kwansei Gakuin University, hosted an international collaborative research program under the JST Sakura Science Program (Collaborative Research Activity). Researchers and graduate students from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER Tirupati), India, participated in this three-week program.

The program welcomed Associate Professor Sudipta Dutta and two Ph.D. students from IISER Tirupati. Professor Wakabayashi and Professor Dutta have maintained a collaborative research relationship for over a decade, focusing on theoretical studies of electronic states and optical responses in two-dimensional materials. Building on this long-standing partnership, the present program aimed to further expand collaborative research activities by actively involving doctoral students in intensive research discussions.

During their stay, a series of research seminars and focused discussions were conducted on topics such as optical responses in two-dimensional materials, topological phases, and valley physics. These sessions provided valuable opportunities for participants to exchange ideas on theoretical models, numerical approaches, and physical interpretations. Active interactions among graduate students significantly contributed to improving their international research communication skills and to fostering new research networks for future collaboration.

In addition to on-campus research activities, the program included visits to leading Japanese research institutions. On December 15, the participants visited the laboratory of Associate Professor Satoshi Kaneko at Institute of Science Tokyo, where discussions were held on electron transport in molecular devices. On the same day, Professor Dutta delivered a research seminar, followed by lively discussions with faculty members and students. On December 16, the group visited the National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), where they discussed electron transport properties in C60-based devices with Dr. Kazuhiko Tsukagoshi, gaining first-hand exposure to Japan's advanced research infrastructure.

Cultural exchange was also an integral part of the program. Participants visited Himeji Castle and Kobe Harbor, experiencing traditional Japanese architecture and history. A tea ceremony at Koko-en Garden offered insights into Japanese aesthetics and cultural values. Furthermore, visits to Nara Park, Kofuku-ji Temple, Todai-ji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine provided opportunities to explore Japanese religious culture and Buddhist art, prompting thoughtful discussions on cultural similarities and differences between Japan and India.

Although the program lasted only three weeks, it proved to be a highly intensive and productive experience, successfully integrating advanced scientific collaboration with meaningful cultural exchange. The outcomes of this program have laid a strong foundation for sustained international collaboration and the continued development of young researchers. Wakabayashi Laboratory intends to further strengthen this partnership and expand international research and human resource development activities in the future.