Department of Materials Science

Please tell us about the characteristics of your department and major.

The Department of Materials Science at Waseda University was established in April 2019, building on Waseda’s long-standing tradition of education and research in materials. The distinctive feature of this new department is its exploration of materials science from the integrated perspectives of science of matter, mathematical science, and mechanical science. Central to this curriculum is the required course “Advanced Mathematical Modeling of Materials,” which, along with the fundamental principles of thermodynamics, crystallography, and structural mechanics, enables students to understand the behavior of materials from a mathematical perspective and apply this knowledge to the development of real materials. Additionally, by incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives and methodologies in their research, students gain the ability to excel in the cutting-edge fields of materials science.

Could you tell us what your department and major aims to achieve and the type of person you are looking for?

This department aims to advance both fundamental and applied research in materials science essential for the development of our country’s core industries. Beyond traditional academic frameworks, it incorporates mathematical perspectives and insights related to next-generation materials, striving to cultivate and produce talent involved in research and development for future key industries. Through the department’s research guidance and lectures, students acquire mathematical thinking, a multifaceted perspective, and a pioneering spirit in exploring new methods. They are trained to apply these skills in core materials industries. Graduates are expected to excel in a wide range of fields, from steel and other material industries to various core industries and research institutions. We encourage students to develop flexible thinking and adaptability through collaboration with other disciplines, enabling them to create new value.

Please give us a brief introduction to your specialty.

My expertise lies in researching the atomic-level structure and dynamics of amorphous materials. Unlike crystalline materials with periodic atomic arrangements, amorphous materials exhibit disordered atomic configurations. One of my goals is to discover order within this apparent randomness. We aim to understand these disordered structures and elucidate the mechanisms governing their material properties through advanced measurement techniques, computational simulations, and mathematical analysis.

In particular, we employ a method called computational topology as part of our mathematical analysis. Topology, often referred to as “rubber sheet geometry,” studies whether objects can be continuously deformed. Even in materials like amorphous solids where there is no regular atomic arrangement, we believe that topology can reveal hidden orders or patterns. This motivates our research to uncover these insights.

The joy of research lies in making new discoveries, yet the process is challenging. However, the satisfaction of testing my ideas with various methods and confirming their validity is unparalleled. I encourage students to experience the essence of research and find joy in their own discoveries.

Please give a message to prospective students (entrance exam candidate).

In the Department of Materials Science, our goal is to advance the field of materials science, essential for humanity’s sustainable development, by integrating perspectives from traditional disciplines along with mathematical and mechanical sciences. If you have a passion for exploring natural sciences and aspire for your discoveries to contribute to human progress, then our program offers an ideal environment. We invite you to join us in making the future of materials science. We eagerly await your enrollment.