Voice of Students and Alumni
Voice of Students and Alumni|Department of Ocean Technology,Policy, and Environment Graduate School,The University of Tokyo
I am conducting research on the automatic tracking of marine animals using an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). This method utilizes machine learning to analyze sonar and camera data to enable the detection of marine animals, eliminating the need for prior capture, as required in biologging, and facilitating the observation of deep-sea animals. Studying marine life is essential for understanding biodiversity and plays a crucial role in maintaining the Earth’s ecosystems.
With the support of senior researchers, supervisors, and staff members in our laboratory, I have conducted a series of experiments both on campus and in real marine environments, gaining valuable experience in AUV operation and data acquisition. Furthermore, regular discussions in our meetings provide diverse perspectives, and we actively incorporate the feedback we receive to refine our research. In this enriching environment, I am engaged in a fulfilling and rewarding research journey.
I am studying on underwater visible light communication (UVLC). UVLC offers advantages such as high speed and large capacity in medium range compared to conventional acoustic or RF (radio frequency) communication. Enabling communication in water as freely as in the air could enhance the utilization of marine environments. I believe visible light communication technology is crucial for achieving this. Outside research, I am preparing for entrepreneurship with fellow students in the laboratory. In this program, we benefit from esteemed professors, diverse collaborations, and well-equipped facilities, fostering an environment for research and welcoming challenges in external settings. Join us in exploring the depths of marine research!
When I was an undergraduate looking for a suitable research topic I could focus on, the difficulty was in choosing the right one out of a number of departments and research groups. In the end, the atmosphere of the campus, department, and research group attracted me. The Kashiwa campus is located on a quiet area with beautiful scenery, and we can receive a thorough education thanks to the relatively small department. I can concentrate on my research and spend a peaceful daily life in this great environment.
Currently, I am trying to reveal the characteristics of gas hydrates behavior in sediment under the sea. The goal of our group is to realize stable storage of carbon dioxide or domestic production of natural gas. Although Japan has a huge exclusive economic zone: EEZ, it is hard to utilize the EEZ because there is no established industry to base on such as offshore oil production. For the utilization, different ocean technologies must collaborate. The department of OTPE can and will be the hub of those ocean technologies, leading the nation and the world. I highly recommend this young department and look forward to studying together with you.
My research focuses on investigating the morphology and permeability of gas hydrate-bearing sediments, aiming to expand my expertise and contribute to advancements in gas hydrate research. Supported by knowledgeable and supportive professors, our regular meetings, seminars, and workshops facilitate the progress of my research. Additionally, UTokyo’s renowned reputation and provision of scholarships and funding further enrich our research experience. Beyond our academic pursuits, ample opportunities exist to shape our future career paths.
The natural surroundings offer a picturesque and convenient backdrop for both daily life and research endeavors, fostering a friendly and supportive community where mutual assistance is the norm. Engaging in sports teams, hiking, and communal activities adds to the enjoyment of our time together. As an international student, I find a welcoming environment that feels like home.
In summary, UTokyo offers an excellent environment for graduate studies and research, making it a compelling choice for prospective students.
As a PhD student specializing in multiple autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) navigation methods, I’m dedicated to advancing marine exploration and environmental monitoring. With experience from underwater robot companies in Canada and Japan, I’m committed to leveraging marine robot technology for societal benefit.
Our research, including artificial fish reef surveys in the Kada district of Wakayama City and Kobe City’s Suma Marine Fishing Park, enhances our understanding of oceanography and marine engineering. Collaborating with researchers worldwide enriches our perspectives and drives our research forward.
Join us in pioneering a future where human development aligns with global environmental preservation.
I decided to do a master’s degree and Ph.D. at the OTPE because I have a strong interest in marine environments. During my master and PhD, I worked on the development of an advanced in-situ chemical analyser for deep-sea mineral deposits. This gave me the opportunity to not only apply what I learnt in the coursework, but also work independently on a project with literature studies and experiments. I also joined research cruises, where I got first-hand experience of how data is collected at sea and had the opportunity to exchange thoughts and learn from other scientists.
Currently, I work as a researcher at the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), developing optical techniques to monitor changes in the marine environment caused by global pollution and climate change. What I learnt in classes is vital for this project, and the sea-going experiences strongly helped develop a device fit for deployment in the open sea. On top of that, the connections with international researchers as well as companies I have built proved invaluable in tackling global environmental problems.
I am glad that I chose to do my master and Ph.D. at the OTPE, as it broadened my horizon and helped me pursue an exciting career.
I am a Japanese-Brazilian, obtained a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from University of São Paulo, and a PhD from University of Tokyo. Research on new topics and methodologies is always challenging, and I was very fortunate to have a very good environment, in which to tackle this in my doctoral program, thanks to my supervisor and the OTPE staff.
I am now working at the CO2 Storage Group at INPEX Corporation. I am almost finishing my first year and most of it focused on training in the petroleum industry, involving a fire hazard practice in Malaysia (pictured). I just started working on simulations about Carbon Capture & Storage. My PhD definitely formed the basis of my current work.
I pursued this department in response to my interest in the field of oceanography and engineering. As anticipated, this department provided me with a comprehensive understanding of both scientific and engineering aspects of the ocean, understanding a wide topic including environmental issues and maritime policies. And I also had the opportunity to join research expeditions in the Arctic and Antarctic Ocean for my research, and to participate in discussions with researchers around the world at conferences and research symposiums.
I plan to join a classification society and I will be involved in classification rules for vessels, as well as their assessment. I also aim to contribute to research and development related to maritime and ocean sciences. Using the knowledge and experiences during this department, I want to play a role in enhancing the utilization of the ocean and improving ocean environments.
I believe that this major provides a unique perspective by allowing you to gain a holistic view of the nature of the ocean and specialize in engineering and science. Through lectures, research activities, and various activities, this department can offer invaluable experiences both within and outside the department.
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