Research fields: Photochemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, Functional Molecular Materials, Photomedicine, Solar Energy Conversion My research focuses on the creation, mechanistic understanding, and application of novel photofunctions that emerge from the self assembly of organic dye molecules. In particular, I study supramolecular assemblies formed by ionic pi conjugated molecules in water, where intermolecular electronic interactions induce photoinduced charge separation and unusual excited state dynamics. When molecules assemble, new photochemical pathways can emerge that are not accessible in isolated molecules. These processes often lead to long lived charge separated states and radical reactions, resulting in new forms of photochemistry. In this context, I have proposed the concept of Aggregation Induced Charge Separation (AICS), in which charge separation is generated through molecular aggregation. My research aims to elucidate the general principles underlying this phenomenon by combining spectroscopic analysis, theoretical calculations, and molecular design. Building on these supramolecular photochemical principles, I am also developing applications in photodynamic therapy (PDT) and solar energy conversion materials. In particular, I am working on supramolecular photosensitizers capable of sustained radical generation through charge separation, which may overcome the limitations of conventional photomedicine under hypoxic conditions. More broadly, my research integrates supramolecular photochemistry with biomedical and energy related applications. By combining experimental chemistry with AI and robotic technologies for materials discovery, I aim to accelerate the development of next generation photofunctional molecular materials.

有機色素の分子集合や空間配置を精密に制御することで、非発光性の暗状態（Dark States）と発光状態（Bright States）の双方を活用し、新しい光機能の創出を目指しています。
左図では、水中でのイオン性色素の自己集合によって分子間電荷分離を促進し、従来は発光消光の原因と考えられてきた暗状態をラジカル光化学反応に利用する研究を示しています。これらの研究を基盤として、光触媒反応や光線力学療法（PDT）への応用を進めています。
右図では、シクロデキストリンなどのキラルな分子足場上に複数の発光団を集積し、励起状態相互作用やエキシマー形成を制御することで、高輝度の円偏光発光（CPL）を実現する研究を示しています。さらに、分子認識機能との融合によるセンシングやバイオイメージングへの展開を目指しています。