FrontierLab@OsakaU

Scientific Empowerment Program for International Students INTRODUCTION

Osaka University is at the forefront of Scientific technological innovation in Japan and is recognized as one of the leading Empowerment science universities in the world. FrontierLab@OsakaU of Osaka Program for University is a program designed to nurture creative competency in International students by offering a wide range of Students potential research directions and emphasizing hands-on laboratory experience. It is specifically created for international students seeking to upgrade vital research and analytical skills. Applications from both undergraduate and graduate science and engineering majors are welcome.

1 Why FrontierLab@OsakaU?

Close Supervision by Top Scientists Learning in the Community of Practice in the World The Japanese tradition of the spirit of Osaka University has long been creation is very much alive in the frontier recognized for its world-class research research laboratory. Participants will output and quality training for up-and- have a first-hand experience of the coming researchers. Each participant in Japanese spirit of invention and the FrontierLab Program will be assigned breakthrough through laboratory to an internationally renowned research experiments at Osaka University. group, and thematic studies will be conducted under the close supervision of the faculty who are top in the field.

Interactive and Experiential Learning FrontierLab@OsakaU characterizes itself with small group discussions and one-to- one supervision by faculty, which enable participants to experience interactive and Hands-on experiential learning. Participants select Experience of a topic from basic to applied to the most challenging and cutting-edge and Internationally conduct experiments through peer consultation, group work and interactive Renowned discussions. Science and Technology Fields

2 Information Science and Technology Information Science and Technology http://www.ist.osaka-u.ac.jp/english Graduate School ofInformation Science and Technology [Pure and Applied Mathematics] [Computer Science] [Information Networking] t
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&OHJOFFSJOH As the advanced information society rapidly takes shape in the 21st century

As the advanced information society rapidly takes shape in the (1) The curricula broadly cover from math-related basic theories 21st century, this opens a way for people to engage in a much to advanced application technologies and include various wider range of social activities. To support these developments, information media as the target, covering from hardware, the Information Technology (IT) field must break out of their software and the content itself. old academic constraints and create new technologies and sys- (2) The curricula give full attention to the human interface based tems that enable the transformation to new society. More specifi- on advanced IT such as multimedia engineering, bioinfor- cally, a strong demand has emerged that the curricula and the matic engineering etc. Engineering Science coursework in these areas should be updated and reformed. To meet this social demand, the Graduate School of Information (3) The curricula fully address various social issues inherent in Science and Technology was established in April 2002. By pro- the cyber society supported by advanced information net- viding high quality research and education, the graduate school working technologies. aims to lead the fields of information and network technologies. Based on the above characteristics, we have been conducting One of the mottos of our school is the fusion of life science and Engineering Science education programs (Fostering Advanced Human Resources in information technology, where advanced information science information and Communication titled “IT Spiral: IT Specialist and technologies are developed as learned from living organisms, Program Initiative for Reality-based Advanced Learning” and “IT in other words, the exploration of “bio-inspired information Keys: IT specialist program to promote Key Engineers as securitY technology”. Aiming at achieving this motto, we have been pro- Specialists”). moting several projects (ex. Global COE program titled “Center Engineering of Excellence for Founding Ambient Information Society 74 Infrastructure” and Formation of Innovation Centers for the [Department of Pure and Applied Mathematics] [Division of Electrical, Electronic and FusionInformation of Advanced Engineering] Technologies titled “Intelligent Artificial A dichotomy in Mathematics is: continuous and discrete. The Agents and Information Systems Inspired by Biological Systems former has been the main subject since the invention of infini- Atom-by-Atom Bottom-up NanostructuringDynamics (Yuragi System Project)”. tesimal calculus. At the root of geometry including modern ones Prof. Morita’s research group has been developing a novel bottom-up nanostructuring also lies the notion of continuous objects. We have many advanc- system based on atomic force microscopy (AFM) at room temperature (RT). It can not only observe single atoms (Science 1995), but alsoResearch identify chemical and species Education of indi- es in this direction. While the latter has been rather of marginal Engineering interest, partly because of the lack of appropriate machinery to vidual atoms (nature 2007), and then manipulate selectedThere atom is speciesa powerful to the designed consensus that solutions must be quickly site (Science 2008a), one by one, to assemble complex nanostructures consisted of treat them. found in the 21st century to address the critical “1G and 3E” multi atom species at will. His group has achieved chemical identification of individual Meanwhile the rapid development of computer technology atoms (nature 2007) and constructed protruded “Atomissues Inlay” – that (nature is, issues materials relating 2005) to the genome, electronics, environ- has given a strong impetus for looking at discrete objects, such and also hollowed “Atom Inlay” (Science 2008b), ment,that is, embeddedand energy. atom Asletters the con- technological foundation for solving 70 as DNA code, more seriously. For problems arising in such fields Science sisted of two atom species at RT. theses issues, attention has been focused on IT, biotechnology, the notion of solvability is not sufficient, but the procedures to and nanotechnology; IT in get solutions are more important. Traditionally study in such particular will continue to pro-

Science direction has been given the name “algorithm”. vide the technological under- 50 With such going, new insights for algorithm from Mathematics pinning for the other two. To with its latest advancements are strongly awaited. And this is the address these broad aspects of primary mission of this department. IT, the graduate school offers We hope that in the process new relations with existing curricula with the following Mathematics emerge eventually and enhance the content of characteristics: Mathematics. Protruded atom inlay “Sn” consisted of large Sn (yellow) ComputerHollowed science atom inlay as fundamentals“Si” consisted ofof broadProfessor range Morita of information showing a cover systems of nature, where his atoms substituted in small Ge (red) atoms at RT(nature small Si (a little dim) atoms substituted in figure of chemical identification of individual atoms Multidisciplinary Research Laboratory Systemmaterials for 2005). Future Developments (Σ MRL)large Sn (brighter) atoms at RT (Science appears (nature 2007). Science Engineering Science Engineering Information2008b). Science & The Graduate School of Engineering Science has created, by What is the School of EngineeringTechnology Science? TheX-ray image of theGraduate Cygnus Loop. The black and white image School is taken by ROSAT, while coloredof Science The main objective of the The Graduate School of regions were observed with X-ray CCDs. Square regions where observed by Suzaku and circu- lar regions by Newton. The observations are ongoing. fusing various basic fields, novel research fields such as bioengi- continues its research policies Graduate School of Engineering Engineering boasts a history of neering science, information science, frontier materials science,[Division The ofSchool Sustainable of Science Energy is where and education EnvironmentalThe advanced in science information Engineering] is Observationthat of the focus Cygnus Loop on with X-raya liberal, CCDs onboard lively Suzaku and Newton Science is to develop scientists Prof. Tsunemi’s group of the Department of Earth and Space consists of two components: one is relatively cool, about 0.2~0.3 moreoffered than and 100 the years,mechanisms and has of nature aresociety studied. rapidly takes shape in Science observed the Cygnus Loop with X-ray CCDs on board mathematicalkeV, and the other is hot, about 0.5~0.8 science keV. The cool compo for- social system, etc. In 2002, based on the Suzakuspirit and Newton satellites. and Suzaku is acreativity Japanese satellite nent is the shell and originates from swept-up interstellar matterwith a keen interest in practical sent many students into society the 21st century, paving the way launched in 2005 and Newton is a European satellite launched surrounding the progenitor star. The hot component fills the CollaborationSuppose, for withinstance, Research a question Institute was posed for on theSustainability birth Science and Environmental Risk in 1999. Each carries an X-ray CCD with a field of view of theinside ofabove the shell. Since theprecious hot component originated experience, from it established a unique system about 1/2~1/3unencumbered degree. The Cygnus Loop (see the Figure) is bythe oldejecta of the supernova, its abundance shows the productstechnology, and engineers who whoof theare universe,now playing and in a pursuingleading the answerfor people to that to question, engage in a much a supernova remnant whose age is about 10,000 years. It has a calledof the nucleosynthesis Multidisciplinary at the time of the supernova explosion. Research Laboratory System for Future circular shapeconventions. with diameter about 3 degrees and is brightThe at Prof.School Tsunemi and collaborators found an asymmetry of thehave a firm grasp of the basic Management Training Program X-ray wavelength. The black and white image was taken by the various atomic elements inside the Loop. (These elements will rolemany in various findings fieldswere obtained. of The systematicwider range summarization of social activities. ROSAT satellite using a gas proportional counter. The X-ray Developmentsbe the raw material for the next generation (MIRAILAB) of stars). Taking into which supports and incubates vari- CCDs haveincludes a much better wavelength resolutiona variety that enables accountof thedisciplines, absolute amount of the elements, the mass of thesciences and may use this plasma parameters (temperature, abundance, ionization state, progenitor star can be estimated at about 15 times the solar mass. Theacademyand Division compilation and of commerceSustainable of those bothEnergyfindings and makes EnvironmentalTo upmeet the socialdiscipline demands,ers of with the the collaboration of the Society for Risk Analysis (SRA)- density etc) to be determined ousIf this iskinds correct, the supernova of explosionmultidisciplinary should have created a research projects which are aimed Prof. Tsunemias and cancollaborators foundbe that seenthe Cygnus Loop in neutrondiverse star that should be visible at X-ray wavelength. expertise to create new Engineeringwithin and in outsidecollaboration the withcountry. related initiatives provide Japan. The first period of ERMT completed within FY2008, at the future innovation of creative research fields together with science. “Science” strives for an objectiveGraduate understanding School of of Information departments such as technology. The School consists a wideThe spectrumGraduate of Schoolresearch consistsand educational of opportunitiesScience and in Technology and currently, was Onsite Research Center for Sustainability Design the growth of young researchers and engineers with global stan- nature beyond human preconceptions and emotions. On the Mathematics, Physics, of departments such as sustainability10 divisions science and and the environmental School of risk management.established The in April(ORCSD) 2002, of Graduate School of Engineering inherits its educa- dard in these fields in cooperation with the conventional basic other hand, “engineering” is a discipline where the knowledge Chemistry, Biological Science, Materials Engineering Science, ResearchEngineering Institute has for Sustainability5 divisions, Science (RISS)consisting lead a joint of 7 departments:tional activity and develops “Advanced ERMT” since FY2009. engineering science. From 2007, MIRAILAB enters its second about the mechanisms of nature made clear by science is put Macromolecular Science, and Mechanical Science and projectcovering that expectsfields suchto address as the sustainablePure development and Applied (RISS) Mathematics, http://www.riss.osaka-u.ac.jp stage to strengthen the support. together and fabricated into technologies that are useful for Earth and Space Science. To Bioengineering, and Systems challengeBiotechnology,the welfareby introducing of humanAdaptive an integralbeings. andThe dynamicShinkansenInformation innovation (bullet and train), (ERMT)Physical http://risk.see.eng.osaka-u.ac.jp/ Selected Research Subjects in 2008-2009: system where technology development and social systems design (ORCSD) http://www.orcsd.eng.osaka-u.ac.jp/ meet the needs of society and Innovation. Machinerobot (Pictures) Systems, andSustainable computers are justScience, three Computerexamples of Science, Mechanisms and Applications of Nonlinear Dynamic Systems, play the central role. The project will launch the “Sustainability industry, the School of Science Energyimportant and technolgiesEnvironmental that mankind hasInformation achieved. Technology Systems is not only concernedInternational with Student Network, ScienceEngineering, Educational Applied Program” in October 2007.Engineering, This program Information offersis graduate thus something students the that essential has a knowledgedirect bearing (global on sustain-human beings. fundamental researchPromotion studies of Integration of Humanities and Science, Chemistry, Mechanical Networking, Multimedia ability,A scenario place for design research and analysis,and education management that aims methods, to fuse eval- those two but also with practicalInter-plate applied Earthquakes and Mantle Convection, Engineering, Electrical and Engineering, and Bioinformatic uationdisciplines, tools, etc.) “science”and skills andnecessary “engineering”, to perform into sustainability one is the School research studies.Non Destructive Imaging of Tree Ring using Microwave Engineering. The School has designElectronicand successfully Graduate Engineering, in theSchool industry, of Engineering academia and Science. government. Departments Engineering Science in Neuro-Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Ocean been performing various Finance: Mathematical and Statistical Techniques Thecommitted Division launched to new thedisciplines Environmental such as Risk Biophysical Management Engineering TrainingEngineering,and Program Information (ERMT)Architectural and inComputer October 2004 Sciences asactivities the also first belong com-and working to the actively to prehensiveEngineeringSchool initiative of Engineering and to Civil train Science.environmental riskforge managers closer in cooperation Japan.Engineering. The program To aims harmonize at responding to organizationalbetween the and industry and socialnature needs and by improvinghuman beings, the education and in environmentalacademia andrisk has been utilizing managementto contribute in the to post-graduate the creation level, of developing our researchthe human and development resourcesa safe withsociety, practical the Graduateknowledge and skillsresults in public for sec- the betterment of tors,School providing aims training to “produce, opportunities raise for businesssociety. sectors and promotingand transmit public outreach. wisdom” The and program offers lectures by spe- cialists“contribute with long to business society” experience, based one-learning materials and onlinethe exercises,excellent and wisdom. practical training programs in alliance with Participating Schools industrial associates. The program also developed an external accreditation process and criteria for environmental risk manag- Sustainability Science Educational Program Frame

3 Dentistry

Fig.6. Scanning electron microscopic image showing colonization of human epithelial 61 cells by S. pyogenes.

Fig.5. Microscopic analyses performed by graduate students. Frontier Biosciences MedicineFig.7. Confocal laser microscopic image Institute of Scientific Research Institute for showing spread of S. pyogenes infection and Industrial Research Microbial Diseases Graduate School of Frontier Graduatealong the perimeter School of epithelialof Medicine cells. Biosciences is dedicated to produces numerous world- ISIR was founded in 1939 on the The Research Institute for advancing forefront of life acclaimed research results, as basis of strong desire and the Microbial Diseases was The cutting edge of infection sciences, aiming to nurture well as outstanding researchers. support of the business circles established in Western Japan in students and scientists in our Also, it produces the largest in KANSAI area. In order to 1934 as a five-department - Various microbes use oral cavity as an entry portalactive - research environment so number of published papers in perform our important mission, Research Center for We have been studying oral bacteria that cause dentalthat caries they becomeand have fully been equipped analyzing howJapan S. pyogenes and submits invades aepithelial substantial cells we started to construct the Communicable Diseases. The and periodontal diseases, and recently widened the scopefor taking of biosciencesusing scanning to electron the and numberconfocal oflaser papers microscopy to renowned technolo- Nanotechnology Incubation Institute's outstanding track next height. Established in April our research to include general microbiology, since a number of gies. scientific magazines. The Building. It is the first case of record led to the addition of the 2002, the school has assembled general diseases are initiated by oral pathogens via the oral cav- In order to cause systemic numberand septic of infections, contract research,it is apparent the on-campus Nanotechnology Research Center for Emerging top-level researchers and joint research and donation for ity. Thus, we consider it important for dental graduate students that organisms must escape detection by the host incubation facility in Japan. ISIR Infectious Diseases in 1997. educators who S.are pyogenes experts in a research and education from to understand general microbiology, as they will be expected to immune system and survive in plasma, after which they are able plays a major role in the inter- Today, the Institute has grown wide range of disciplines, private companies accorded to university institutes alliance to include nineteen departments fight all pathogens in oral cavity, which we consider to be the cut- to invade and spread into various organs via the blood stream. including medicine, biology, the school being among the projects and international spanning diversified subjects ting edge of infection. physics, andRecently, engineering. it was reported thathighest infiltrating in Japan. neutrophils were not collaboration, contributing to and to train Master’s and Ph.D. Streptococcus sanguinis is a member of oral streptococci. It is the observed at sites of S. pyogenes infection. The complement system the exchange of ideas and candidates in the medical and first bacterium to colonize tooth surfaces, where it functions as plays an important role in the innate immune system, as it func- discussion with people outside biological sciences. a ‘pioneer’ by forming dental plaque, which leads to dental car- tions as a protective shield in the early phases of infection as well the Institute. ies, periodontal diseases, and alterations of dental restorations. S. as an effector for the acquired immune system. It is important to sanguinis has also been reported to be closely related to infective investigate how S. pyogenes inhibits the complement immune sys- endocarditis, which is frequently caused by oral bacteria entering tem, as the mechanisms used by the bacterium may involve com- the bloodstream following trauma. In a recent study, we identified mon molecules shared among different pathogens. Furthermore, a virulence factor that plays important roles in bacterial coloniza- analyses of virulence molecules could lead to the development of tion and speculated that this molecule may be a reasonable target effective preservation and treatment procedures. in strategies to prevent bacterial infection and disease progression. We have established two prizes to provide economic aid and Group A Streptococcus pyogenes is a Streptococcus mutans family honorable recognition for excellent graduate research studies; member that has been implicated as an etiologic agent of dental the Incentive Award for Outstanding Research of the Osaka caries. S. pyogenes is also known as a human pathogen that causes University Dental Society and the International Travel Award of streptococcal pharyngitis as well as more severe invasive infec- the Osaka University Dental Society. tions, including necrotizing fasciitis, sepsis, and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. The first step of S. pyogenes infection is bacterial adhesion to host epithelial cells by mediating extracel- lular matrix proteins (e.g., fibronectin). We identified several fibronectin-binding proteins of S. pyogenes as adhesins/invasins, International Center for Research Institute for Research Center for Institute of Laser Biotechnology Protein Research Nuclear Physics Engineering (ICBiotech) The Institute for Protein Research Center for Nuclear The Institute of Laser International Center for Research (IPR) was founded as a Physics (RCNP) of Osaka Engineering (ILE) is a pioneering Biotechnology (ICBiotech) is joint-use research organization University is the national research institution of the study dedicated to promote attached to Osaka University to research center for nuclear of “High Energy Density international cooperation play a central role in protein physics and has been producing Physics”. The research among Asian countries in the science in Japan. Emphasis was outstanding results in the field conducted at the ILE includes a aspects of research and laid on studies on the structure of nuclear physics. The facilities wide range of research fields, educational advancement in the and function of proteins and are used for the worldwide such as laboratory astrophysics, field of Biotechnology by their biological significance at collaborations to perform the generation and application of propelling academic interactions the molecular level, as well as physics of the subatomic world, electromagnetic radiation in Asian countries. The research investigations at the cellular the typical length scale is 10 to ranging from terahertz radiation projects revolve mainly on the level. Although IPR started as a the minus 15th meter. Our to gamma rays, and relativistic development and utilization of domestic center, it is now widely facilities were constructed for nuclear science. The ILE’s biological functions, the recognized as an international the study of nuclear physics but research findings contribute to optimization of bioconversion center of excellence for protein are also open to all researches high-tech industries such as processes, and the conservation research. which require the facilities. semiconductor production using of genetic resources. laser-produced extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light.

Participating Schools & Institutes

4 Challenges and Aspirations: Voice from the Participants

Priyanka SONI Fabio DALLA Nitinkumar LIBERA Home University: Home University: California University University of Padova of San Diego Assigned Laboratory: Assigned Laboratory: Department of Systems Department of Frontier Innovation, Graduate Biosciences, Graduate School of Engineering School of Frontier Science Biosciences

Interested in Prof. Akihito OGURA’s work for a long time, Priyanka Fabio came to Japan through an inter-lab exchange program was looking for a way to study at his laboratory. When she found between a lab in Osaka University and the lab in University of out about FrontierLab@OsakaU, she took the initiative to contact a Padova, his home university. He loves to watch Japanese coordinator of the international office and became the first animation, in particular “Gundam”- a world-famous Japanese student from her university to join the program. anime classic. It is partly the reason why he fell in love with robotics. Co-Authorship in the High-Quality International Journal Hands-on Experience with Cutting-edge “What I loved about this program is learning how to read scientific Science as well as Japanese Culture papers in order to apply up-to-date information to my research.” “The best thing about this program is that it offers hands-on By experiencing close supervision and conducting hands-on experience in both academic and cultural settings. I have been research in FrontierLab@OsakaU program during the spring of very interested in Japanese culture, especially Japanese 2009, Priyanka contributed to the publication of an article in the animation, ever since high school, and I started to learn the Journal of Neuroscience Research in December 2010 as one of the Japanese language. I think that you will never be able to know authors. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jnr.22505/ the true essence and real spirit of things, unless you actually do full them or experience them. Osaka University provided me that opportunity by offering me a lively, vibrant Japanese culture and state-of-the-art science.”

Priscille DREUX Mun-seok PARK Home University: Home University: Seoul National School of National University Chemistry and Assigned Laboratory: Engineering Science Department of Systems of Paris Innovation, Graduate Assigned School of Engineering Laboratory: Applied Science Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering

Priscille won the first prize at the final presentation of As an undergraduate, Mun-seok first studied Electrical FrontierLab@OsakaU, held on July 30, 2009. With her improved Engineering for two years and then Management for another research skills and cross-cultural experiences, she landed a job two years. He found himself interested in Financial in a major Japanese company in Belgium, which she started in Mathematics, and Osaka University gave him an opportunity to September 2009. fuse his knowledge in two areas to a new, ambitious field of study. Advancing Research Skills “I was able to enhance my knowledge about my research field Wholesome Experience and improve research skills by devoting myself to experiments. “My personal impression is that the level of Japanese Preparing for the final presentation was also a great learning undergraduate students is no lower than that of the graduate experience. It was a challenge for me to condense my research students. I believe specialized, intensive course work and into ten minutes and simplify it in order to explain it to the personal guidance by the professor make the level of students audience with a completely different research background. In in Japan high. particular, when I was asked a question, I could view my I started to learn the Japanese language after I came to Japan, research from a very different perspective. It made me think and one month before going back to my country, I reached a more of the big picture, and how to make my research level that would allow me to take the first level of the Japanese accessible to a different range of people.” Language Proficiency Test. FrontierLab is a wholesome experience!” 5 Different Labs, Shared Experiences: Feedback from the Participants

Sutima CHATRABHUTI Home University: Chulalongkorn University Jian HUANG Assigned Laboratory: Department of Applied Chemistry, Home University: Shanghai Jiao Tong University Graduate School of Engineering Assigned Laboratory: Department of Mechanical Science and Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering Science

Yuumi MIYAZAWA Home University: University of California, San Diego Assigned Laboratory: Department of Rafal NOGA Biological Sciences, School of Science Home University: University of Valladolidy Chia Fen TSAI Assigned Laboratory: Department of Home University: National Chiao Tung Systems Innovation, Graduate School of University Engineering Science Assigned Laboratory: Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering Strong Support and Supervision Strong Support: “It took just two days to be prepared for joining the research lab after the arrival. It was easy to come here, without worrying much about a visa, accommodation and all the others!” Small Size Classes: “Everyone knows each other well. In classes, lecturers have more conversation with students, so I take less notes. Class is more of talking rather than listening.” Efficient Way of Supervising: “Japanese professors are different in that they give student more time to proceed with their own work. I can bring my data to my supervisor, when I am ready, to get some comments. That way, I know whether I am on the right track.” Excellent Research Opportunities Working with a Well-known Researcher in the World: “I came here to be able to work closely with the supervisor at Osaka U, who is an expert in my field. He is teaching me everything I need for my research!” Easy Access to High-Tech Facilities: “In Japan, all facilities and machines necessary for advanced research are more easily accessible to students. Very convenient!” Strong Theoretical Support for Ph.D Dissertation: “Doing simulation in Japan gives a strong theoretical support for my experimental results. I have already acquired good results for my paper.” Exposure to New Culture and Language Discovering Something New Every Day: “Japan for me is like landing on Mars. Very different society. I discover something new every day!” Love the City of Osaka!: “Great opportunity to be exposed to another culture, completely different educational system and different people around the world. More than anything, I like the city of Osaka!” A Chance to Learn a Local Language: “I was thinking, why do I have to go to America or Europe? I already speak English. I would instead choose another country where I cannot speak a local language. When you overcome that language difficulty, you feel a sense of achievement.” Love to Come Back to Japan! After this program: “I will put all the results together based on simulations that I work on here and get a Ph.D. degree, and then I would like to come back to Japan!” Broadening My Mind: “I did not know exactly what the research was before I came here. But after being exposed to sharing ideas with other classmates, I have more visions for the next step now, including coming back to Japan.” 6 Program

The FrontierLab@OsakaU Program is a student exchange 1. Type of Study program for international students from Osaka University’s Study Plans partner universities which have mutual tuition waiver a. “Special Auditor” (Credit-based research) agreements. i. Applicable for either undergraduate student or graduate student FrontierLab@OsakaU offers students an opportunity to work ii. Fixed exchange period (semester based) with researchers who are at the cutting edge of research. ・1 semester (15 weeks): From Late September to February, Participants in this program will be assigned to a particular or from April to August research group in one of Osaka University’s internationally ・2 semesters (30 weeks): From Late September to August, renowned science and technology fields where they will learn or from April to February thematic studies under the guidance of faculty. Research fields of iii. Applicant will participate in credited supervised research, Osaka University can be found below. and have an option to take other credited courses. http://www.dma.jim.osaka-u.ac.jp/search?m=home&l=en b. “Special Research Student” (Non-credit basis research) i. Applicable only for graduate student ii. Flexible exchange period (three months to full academic year) iii. Applicant will participate in supervised research but not in course works that will grant credits.

2. Language of Instruction English or Japanese

3. Academic Calendar For details specific to each academic year, refer to the university website; http://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/campus/calendar.html

Overview of FrontierLab@OsakaU Program

Fall Intake: Late September New students orientation Spring Intake: Early April

Fall Semester starts October 1st

Year-End/New Year break Late December to Early January

Fall Semester Final Presentation Early February

Spring break Mid-February to End-March

Spring Semester starts Early April

Spring Semester Final Presentation Early August

7 Research Achievements The Final Oral Presentation

The FrontierLab@OsakaU Final Presentation is held twice a year in February and August. FrontierLab@OsakaU students give an oral presentation of their research project for 10 minutes in English in the end of their program. The students are expected to join this final presentation and actively participate in the Q&A session.Each presentation is graded by FrontierLab@OsakaU program coordinators and supervisors based on the following criteria: contents, logical and analytical strength, presentation skills, and response to questions. The best three presenters will receive best presentation awards given by Executive Vice President of Osaka University.

Host School/ Final Presentation Title Home University FrontierLab Supervisor Graduate School Visualization and destruction of cancer cells by multiocolour University of Groningen, The Netherlands Frontier Biosciences Prof. Takeharu NAGAI photosensitizing proteins Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Institute for Protein Kinetic and thermodynamic characterization of PaSDSA1 sulfatase Prof. Yuuji GOTOU Mexico Research How to make an animation with 3D models manipulation without Information Science and National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan Prof. Haruo TAKEMURA traditional timeline Technology Comparing Strengthening Mechanisms of Vapor Grown Carbon Fiber vs. Titanium Carbide Reinforced PM Titanium Metal Matrix University of California, USA Engineering Prof. Katsuyoshi KONDOH Composites Damage and non-damage simulation of a residential fill slope RWTH Aachen University, Germany Engineering Prof. Kenichi TOKIDA during the past large-scale earthquakes Functional analysis of HNF4A and its co-factors in hepatic University of California, USA Pharmaceutical Sciences Prof. Hiroyuki MIZUGUCHI differentiation from human iPS cells Thermodynamics of Histone-like Protein University of California, USA Science Prof. Seiki KURAMITSU Combined treatment therapy of Interleukin-2 and regulatory T cell Technische Universität München, Germany Medicine Prof. Shimon SAKAGUCHI depletion in murine melanoma and renal cell carcinoma models Oxidation of Cu3Au(111) surface by HOMB examined with SR-XPS University of Jyväskylä, Finland Science Prof. Michio OKADA Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Labeling proteins with 19F to investigate interactions Science Prof. Toshimichi FUJIWARA Germany How to Perceive the Human Presence and Make Robots More Smart National Taiwan University, Taiwan Engineering Science Prof. Hiroshi ISHIGURO Facial imitation between human and robot using human face geometry Pierre & Marie Curie University, France Engineering Prof. Minoru ASADA properties Estimation of HVAC energy saving potential in San Diego apartment University of California, USA Engineering Prof. Yoshiyuki SHIMODA units through passive solar shading Joining of Copper Plates By Unusual Wetting on Laser Irradiated University of California, USA Engineering Prof. Toshihiro TANAKA Surface Crevice Structure

8 Syllabus and Student Workload For your creative competency and more chances for hands-on experience

Objective and set the contact hours in the laboratory at between 180 to 420 FrontierLab@OsakaU is a program designed to nurture creative hours/semester depending on the course. This accounts for more competency in international students by offering them opportunities than 50% of the total workload. The program also sets independent for learning in communities of research practice. The emphasis is study hours for revision/review at 90-210 hours/semester, 6-14 on hands-on laboratory experience in a wide range of potential hours/week to read assigned texts and research papers, analyze research directions. It is specifically created for international research data, and prepare for the laboratory research report to be students seeking to upgrade vital research and analytical skills in the presented to the supervisor at the end of the program. The amount fields of Nanotechnology & Molecular Science, Life Science & of assignments and preparation time depends on the assigned Biotechnology, Systems & Robotics, Computing & Information laboratory and the field of study. Science, Advanced Material Science, Photon Science and other Students will receive a combined grade for contact hours (laboratory relevant fields. time), seminar, oral presentations and written report. Each element is considered essential to their success in the program. As study outcomes, students should be able to: Understand research backgrounds and relevant theories; Contact Hours: As the assessment of the level of understanding of Acquire basic laboratory techniques relevant to their field of laboratory procedures and proficiencies will form a basis for the study; overall grade, students are expected to consider the stated contact Formulate a research plan, implement it by conducting hours as a minimum requirement. Through group discussions and experiment-based research, and convey the results in exchange of opinions, students are expected to develop their own scholarly presentations. ideas and formulate specific research plans.

Seminar Presentation and Participation: There will typically be As the basis for continuous development of research skills, FrontierLab@OsakaU also aims at cultivating in students the ability a single seminar per week and seminar presentation/participation is to: essential for student grade. Good presentations as well as active Give constructive criticism by sharing ideas, data and participation in seminars are critical in acquiring a broad base of findings with laboratory supervisors and peers through group knowledge and further developing analytical skills. Failure to work and peers cooperatively; present/participate in seminars on a regular basis will lower the Enhance independent research capabilities; grade. Individual tutorial, either on a regular basis or otherwise, Prepare research reports by assessing progress and describing may be available or required. accomplishments and failures of the research project. Oral Presentations: Students are expected to carry out three oral presentations (or two in the case of students studying for a short Program Description & Grading Policy period such as three months) during the study period. By giving Each participant in the FrontierLab@OsakaU Program will be three presentations, students will be able to integrate ideas and assigned to a particular research group in one of Osaka University's analyses on laboratory results into creative and academically science and technology fields. Thematic studies will be conducted coherent work. The final oral presentation will be attended and under the close supervision of the faculty through experiments, peer evaluated by FrontierLab@OsakaU coordinators and supervisors as consultation, group work and interactive discussions. Students will part of a university-wide program. select one of the FrontierLab A, B, C and D courses with the total Written Report: Submission of laboratory reports at the end of student workload ranging from 350 to 750 hours/semester. The four student participation in the program is required for successfully courses all emphasize laboratory/research experience for students passing the course.

< Credits and Study Hours per 1 semester (15 weeks) >

Course Name FrontierLab A FrontierLab B FrontierLab C FrontierLab D Credits at Osaka University 6 8 10 14 1. Contact Hours (Laboratory time) 180 240 300 420 2. Preparation Hours for Presentations 30 30 30 40 3. Supervised Study (Meeting with a faculty supervisor) 20 15 15 20 FrontierLab@OsakaU 4. Tutorial (Supplementary advice from Study Hours senior students) 10 20 30 30 5. Participation in Seminar 15 15 15 20 6. Independent Study Hours 90 120 150 210 7. Other Laboratory Activities 10 10 10 10 Total Student Workload 350 450 550 750 Student Workload ECTS Equivalent (25 hrs ≒ 1ECTS) 14 18 22 30

NOTE: Numbers indicate hours per semester, 15 weeks. Contact hours in FrontierLab A to D per day will be on the average 2.4, 3.2, 4.0 and 5.6 hours, respectively. The ECTS-compliant workload table is provided to facilitate credit transfer between Osaka University and partner institutions. Osaka University's credits are awarded based on "contact hours (laboratory time)" stipulated under item "1" of the above. The other study hours written under items "2" to "7" are estimates that may vary according to the particular academic discipline, school/faculty/department, and/or individual laboratory.

9 Prerequisites ability to come up with solid research proposals, and analyze Undergraduate students are required to have completed at least two experimental results. They are also expected to show an ability to years of study before participating in the FrontierLab@OsakaU integrate ideas and laboratory research results into creative and program. Both undergraduate and graduate students in science, academically coherent works. Preparation time includes producing engineering and other relevant fields are required to have completed PowerPoint, handouts and other visual aids for use in the science and/or engineering foundation courses. presentations.

Crediting Six to 14 credits/semester, an equivalent of 14-30 credits in ECTS 3. Supervised Study (Meeting with a faculty advisor) unit will be awarded upon successful completion of the Supervised study enables students to discuss the progress of their requirements. research with supervisors. This close supervision by members of the faculty provides an opportunity for students to ask questions and Grading receive constructive feedback about their research projects. Students •Oral Presentation 40% may also be given assignments by their supervisors. The close (Introductory 10%, Mid-term 10%, Final 20%) contact with "Frontier" scientists is one of the most important •Seminar Presentation/Participation 20% aspects of the program. •Written Laboratory Report 40% Assessment of the Contact hours in the laboratory will comprise the general basis for grading. 4. Tutorial (Supplementary advice from senior students)

Score Assessment Tutorial is a time for peer consultation and group work with the laboratory members, during which time senior students often S 90 points and above instruct and mentor their junior counterparts. Students are A 80 points to 89 points encouraged to discuss results obtained in their own experiments B 70 points to 79 points with peers to receive feedback, while providing a similar type of feedback at the work of others. Tutorial provide students C 60 points to 69 points opportunities to learn in a community of research practice, to F 59 points or below motivate and learn from each other, and to be a competent and Textbooks responsible member of a cooperative research team. No specific textbook is required for the program but is instead left to the discretion of the individual laboratory supervisor. 5. Participation in Seminar Course Options and Estimated Workload Students are expected to participate in a seminar usually conducted (Special Auditor only) once a week for 90-120 minutes. Well-prepared presentations and active participation are required to acquire a broad knowledge base FrontierLab@OsakaU program offers four credited courses for and develop analytical and critical thinking skills. students who participate in semester-based study programs. While "FrontierLab D" requires a full workload (750 hours per semester and 50 hours per week), students who register for courses A, B, or C 6. Independent Study Hours may take other courses offered either in English or Japanese. Each Students are expected to study without supervision or direction from FrontierLab course awards 6 to 14 Osaka University credits, while others during independent study hours. Activities include reading lecture courses such as "International Exchange Subjects" offer 2 assignments and relevant papers, analyzing research data and credits per semester. preparing for the laboratory research report to be submitted to the Many FrontierLab supervisors may require "Course D" registration supervisor at the end of the program. for students to achieve satisfactory outcomes from laboratory experiences. Students are thus advised to consult with their supervisors prior to course registration to discuss individual lab 7. Other Laboratory Activities requirements and study needs in other areas. The other laboratory activities are those offered by the assigned laboratory which are not categorized in the above mentioned student workload. These will vary in nature depending on the Description of Study Hours laboratory. These may include activities in the communities of 1. Contact Hours research practice that enable students to communicate and interact Contact hours or laboratory time is time students spend in the more effectively with other students and acquire intercultural assigned laboratory. During contact hours, students conduct communicability. activities related to experiments with their supervisors and other members of the laboratory. To achieve FrontierLab@OsakaU program goals and objectives, which emphasizes hands-on Transfer of Credits laboratory experience, the contact hours are set at between 180 and 420 hours/semester depending on which of the four courses options is being pursued. This accounts for more than 50% of the total Students will be graded on the basis of laboratory work, workload. Through these contact hours, students are expected to participation in seminars, oral presentations and reports. acquire basic laboratory knowledge and techniques to conduct Participants in courses FrontierLab@OsakaU A, B, C and D will be actual research. awarded credits by the School/Faculty at which the student is enrolled upon successful completion of each course. Osaka University will issue an academic transcript to the student's home 2. Preparation Hours for Presentations university. For students enrolled in non-credited During the preparation hours for presentations, students are FrontierLab@OsakaU program, a Certificate of Completion, expected to prepare for three oral presentations, which the program signed by the Executive Vice President and Chief Coordinator will sets as compulsory activities. In the introductory, mid-term and the be issued. final oral presentations, students are expected to display their understanding of basic theories in their discipline, demonstrate the

10 How to apply to FrontierLab@OsakaU Eligibility, deadlines, scholarship

1. Eligibility 4. Tuition

Both undergraduate and graduate students in science, engineering Tuition is waived for students from universities which have a or other relevant fields who are registered at universities that share formal exchange agreement on tuition waiver with Osaka University. a student exchange agreement with Osaka University. Undergraduate students are required to have completed at least 5. Scholarship two years of study before participating in the FrontierLab@OsakaU program. Successful applicant may be eligible to apply for JASSO (Japan FrontierLab@OsakaU requires adequate language proficiency in Student Services Organization) Scholarship and Osaka University either English or Japanese. Incoming Exchange Scholarship (80,000JPY/month). Number of English: TOEFL iBT 80/IELTS 6.0 or higher * scholarship awards varies by semester and year. Japanese: JLPT N2

*Must be able to give a research presentation in English. 6. Accommodation

Osaka University will book a university accommodation for 2. Method of Application participants in or near the campuses.

Prospective students should contact the exchange coordinator or 7. Visa Information international office for application information. Before coming to Japan, accepted students need to obtain a “Student (Ryugaku)” visa, issued by the Japanese Embassy or 3. Application Deadline Consulate in their country of residence. The Support Office for International Students and Scholars of Osaka University will assist Fall Semester Enrollment: End-March with the visa application process. Spring Semester Enrollment: Late October

11 Contact

International Student Affairs Division, Osaka University 1-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871 JAPAN Phone: +81-6-6879-4026 Email: [email protected] Program web page: http://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/international/inbound/exchange_program/frontierlab University website: http://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/

Schools/Graduate Schools/Institute participating in the FrontierLab@OsakaU Program

School/Graduate School: Science, Medicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering, Engineering Science, Information Science and Technology, Frontier Biosciences

Research Institute: Research Institute for Microbial Diseases Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research Institute for Protein Research Joining and Welding Research Institute International Center for Biotechnology Research Center for Nuclear Physics Cybermedia Center Institute of Laser Engineering Immunology Frontier Research Center

12 Cultural backgrounds of the program A blend of tradition and innovation

Spirit of Creation The FrontierLab@OsakaU Program reflects the tradition of Osaka University, which has long been recognized for its world- class research output and quality training for up-and-coming researchers. This is achieved in myriad ways but most recognizably in a sustained commitment to the integration of basic science with applied fields of study and the early introduction of laboratory experience so as to nurture the spirit of innovation and breakthrough. Many Japanese university laboratories, at least in the fields of science and engineering, still possess a traditional style of teaching and collaborative learning, and often offer opportunities for training in leadership and collaboration with others. This approach can be called "learning in the communities of research practice." This emphasis on practical skills, even in the modern university laboratories, originates in the history of Japan. Respect of "craftsmanship" - the Japanese tradition of "monozukuri" or the "spirit of creation" in other words, is still very much alive in the cutting-edge research laboratories today.

Osaka University Osaka University is recognized as one of the leading research universities in the world and at the forefront of technological innovation in Japan. Its strong orientation toward innovation, partnership with the local community and industry, and pioneering efforts in interdisciplinary research and education, all reflect the university’s unique history and characteristics. Osaka University traces its beginnings to the Edo Period, to the foundation of Tekijuku in Osaka in 1838. Reaching further back, scientific and educational development in Osaka was enhanced by the establishment of Kaitokudo in 1724 by five local merchants. Osaka University takes pride and inspiration from these two educational institutions, not founded by Japanese feudal lords but by local citizens. Both Tekijuku and Kaitokudo pursued scientific truth and knowledge while cultivating virtue and socio- cultural awareness in students. In 1931, the University was established as Osaka Imperial University, relatively late among seven other Imperial Universities. It has grown rapidly in these 80 years, not only in size but also in terms of its contributions to the scholarly community. It is now a comprehensive research university with 16 graduate schools, 11 undergraduate schools, 5 research institutes, 3 national joint-use facilities, 21 joint-use facilities, 2 hospitals, and 4 libraries on 3 campuses of Suita, Toyonaka, and Minoh. As of May 1, 2014, 2012 international students studied at Osaka University out of a total of about 25,000 students. Osaka University takes pride in being a first-class university in both domestic and international settings and is committed to make contributions to society, based on the University’s motto “Live Locally, Grow Globally.”.

13 Osaka on the World Map

WeWe areare f herehere

14 Information published in this brochure is subject to change. Please check the latest information at the following website. http://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/international/inbound/exchange_program/frontierlab For further information, please contact International Student Affairs Division, Osaka University. [email protected] ©Osaka University

March 2015