Young Researcher: Lecturer Yasuomi YAMAZAKI

Lecturer　Department of Applied Chemistry ｜Nishibayashi Laboratory 

Biography

To realize a carbon-neutral society, our laboratory focuses on “artificial photosynthesis”, i.e., the photocatalytic conversion of ubiquitous small molecules (such as dinitrogen, carbon dioxide, and water) into useful compounds that can serve as energy carriers or chemical feedstocks, utilizing renewable solar energy.

We are daily challenging ourselves to develop unprecedented, groundbreaking chemical reactions based on the following core research fields:

1. Development of High-Performance Molecular Catalysts: Designing and developing advanced molecular catalysts to efficiently convert dinitrogen into ammonia, or carbon dioxide into carbon compounds such as carbon monoxide and formic acid.

2. Construction of Photochemical Systems: Constructing solar-driven photochemical systems that supply electrons and protons from water or commodity organic compounds to drive the aforementioned catalytic reactions.

While continuing our pursuit of developing world-first reactions, achieving world-leading catalytic activity, and elucidating reaction mechanisms, we aim for the practical application of our technology. In particular, we are dedicated to developing catalysts that combine industry-level durability with sufficient reaction rates, as well as cost-effective reaction systems with minimal operational constraints, thereby contributing to the realization of a carbon-neutral society. 

Outside of my research, I always strive to take on personal challenges to turn "I want to do" into "I can do." This photo captures the time I tried my hand at baking bread. Lately, I’ve been into weight training, working hard to smash my personal targets.

Nishibayashi Laboratory: https://park.itc.u-tokyo.ac.jp/nishiba/en/
PRESS RELEASE
・Amilestone for developing green ammonia production (2025/05/23)

・Catalytic nitrogen fixation using visible light energy (2022/12/2)

  *Affiliations and titles are as of the time of the interview.