Graduate School of University of Tsukuba
Since the 2013 fiscal year, the Museum has been collaborating with the University of Tsukuba to provide research guidance to its graduate students.
The Museum possesses a vast collection of specimens not found at universities or other research institutions. Students who wish to conduct research that leverages the museum's unique features, particularly its collection, can now receive guidance from
researchers at the National Museum of Nature and Science.
Currently, the six researchers below from the Museum are providing such guidance.
Mammalian Paleontology
Naoki Kohno, Professor
We study the patterns and processes of mammalian phylogeny and adaptive radiation through detailed morphological, ecological, behavioral, biogeographical, and geochemical analyses. Our work particularly focuses on aquatic adaptation during the evolutionary diversification of mammals.
To “About Our Researchers”Molluscan Paleontology
Yasunari Shigeta, Professor
We conduct research in evolutionary paleontology using fossil mollusks from the Mesozoic and Paleozoic eras, with a focus on cephalopods such as ammonites. We aim to understand ancient environments, biodiversity, and ecosystem dynamics by deciphering the wealth of information held in fossils through detailed field surveys and specimen observations.
To “About Our Researchers”Aquatic Botany
Norio Tanaka, Professor
Through field surveys and DNA analysis, we seek to understand the processes and mechanisms by which the diversity of aquatic plants has developed over time and space, focusing on their phylogenetic systematics, adaptive evolution, distribution, and geographic genetic structure. Furthermore, while investigating the reasons why many aquatic plant species are facing the risk of extinction, we conduct conservation research aimed at their coexistence with humans.
To “About Our Researchers”Phylogenetic Systematics of Fungi
Kentaro Hosaka, Associate Professor
Utilizing our accumulated specimens of fungi, particularly mushrooms, we aim to enhance new collections, as well as advance our analysis of environmental samples (such as soil, air, and water) and the DNA extracted from them. Through a comprehensive analysis of these materials, we aim to address not only scientific questions related to the evolutionary phylogeny, distribution, diversity, and extinction of mushrooms, but also anthropological questions regarding their use as a food source by humans.
To “About Our Researchers”Geochronology
Yukiyasu Tsutsumi, Associate Professor
We determine the age of rocks and minerals, primarily through zircon dating. "Age determination" is not just about assigning a timeline to geological phenomena, but also for purposes such as estimating the origin of rocks.
To “About Our Researchers”Marine Mammalogy
Yuko Tajima, Associate Professor
Focusing on marine mammals, our research centers on studies of their physical forms (including comparative anatomy, morphology, and histology) and diseases (including conservation medicine, health assessment, pathology, and environmental assessment). Our research focuses on both wild and captive animals. Because much about this taxonomic group remains unknown, a wide range of studies are being pursued based on the researcher’s interests and ideas.
To “About Our Researchers”