Japan had suffered from severe environmental problems such as pollutions during high economic growth period. Currently we reached highest environmental standard in the world. We aim to foster leaders in the field of environmental science and administration by providing education on history of environmental field in Japan, environmental law, restoration techniques, process of environmental administration, and current method of environmental management.
The objectives of this course are, to learn several basic and introductory issues in the environmental science and to understand the current environmental problems such as ecosystem and land use.
Introduction to Global Environmental Management
In this lecture class, international issues of various environmental problems including Japanese experiences are taken up and discussed them with students from various countries. The problems are shared with each other and the measurements to protect the environments are discussed.
Advanced Course in Environmental Pollution Comparison
The main participants of this course should be international students who are responsible for protecting environments for the next generations of industrially developing countries. In this lecture, students will understand the geology, geography and natural environment of their own countries and learn from both success and failure experiences in Japan and other countries.
Introduction to Renewable Energy
Installation of renewable energy may contribute to reduce CO2 emission and creating jobs locally while the unregulated installation may damage ecosystem, and water and food resources. Therefore, the installation needs to be verified from various viewpoints after assessing sufficiently the energy potentials and impacts to the environment. Referring to the precedents and development experiences inside or outside of Japan, this lecture will help understand comprehensively current situations and issues of renewable energy by recognizing characteristics of each energy source.
Evolutionary ecology of sexual reproduction: sexual selection, reproductive interference, and community structure
Daisuke Kyogoku (The Museum of Nature and Human Activities)
In sexually reproducing organisms, mating with individuals of the opposite sex is necessary to produce offspring. Mating process raises competition for mating opportunities among same-sex individuals (i.e. sexual selection) and the conflict of evolutionary interest between the sexes (sexual conflict), which drive the evolution of reproductive traits. Because reproductive traits can mediate interspecific interactions (e.g. reproductive interference), reproductive trait evolution can eventually influence the community structure. In this talk, I present three different studies that are related to the evolutionary ecology of sexual reproduction, and by doing so I discuss ways in which sexual reproduction is relevant to the origin and/or maintenance of biodiversity. First, I show a likely case of sexual conflict in a sexually reproducing dandelion, where the timing of flower closure is influenced by the identity of the pollen deposited on the stigma. Second, I present a case study of how reproductive trait evolution due to within-species sexual selection can mediate the strength of reproductive interference in a pair of seed beetle species. Third, I present a simulation model of secondary contact with genetically incompatible hybridization. This model suggests that habitat segregation can evolve without tradeoff in resource use ability and that habitat segregation is more likely to be found in nature than species recognition divergence, which has historically been more appreciated than habitat segregation in this context. I will also briefly present some of my ongoing projects and discuss future research plans.
Special Grant Program for International Students / Research Assistant Program of Graduate School of Environmental Science (April 2022)
This program will select students, who can likely contribute internationally in their research field, from those students applying to doctoral courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
It is very meaningful to participate in research as a Research Assistant (RA) for the development of your research ability. Each Research Assistant must serve to achieve the objective of a research subject directed by a faculty member of the Graduate School of Environmental Science. The research subjects are listed below.
Period
Maximum 3 years since the first year although the achievement of the objective must be evaluated each year by the committee of the faculty.
Qualifications of application (Eligibility):
Students (mainly from developing countries) who are going to seek admission to the doctor courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
Payment Exemption / RA Allowance:
Payment Exemption: Total amount of school fees are entirely covered by Hokkaido University (i.e., entrance exam fee of 30,000 yen, admission fee of 282,000 yen, and annual tuition fee of 535,800 yen for each of three years). RA Allowance (depending on the actual working time): Total: 3 million yen (1 million yen for each of three years) Travel expenses of entrance exam should be paid by applicant.
Application Period
Until December 13 Monday, 2021
Application for the program:
Applicants are required to submit the documents listed below. The documents should not be written in a language other than English.
Curriculum vitae with the applicant's photograph
Academic transcript
Graduation certificate
List of publications and presentations in scientific meetings
Research proposal
Direction and comments of potential supervisor and at least one co-supervisor, including proofs of communication between you and the potential supervisors
Master's thesis or other documents in proof of your research ability
Reference and address to apply
Kyoumu-Tantou
Graduate School of Environmental Science
Hokkaido University
Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0810 Japan
E-mail: kyomu (at) ees.hokudai.ac.jp
Forest cover almost one third of the earth’s surface and are recognized to have an impact on the global climate. Deforestation and forest degradation is one of the major causes of increase of greenhouse gases. Forests biophysical parameters (viz. height, structure, density and biomass) are essential for sustainable management. However, in-situ measurement of biophysical parameters are time and labour extensive. Therefore, the goal of the proposed research is to use advanced InSAR and PolInSAR techniques to monitor forests biophysical parameters. Successful candidate is required to have knowledge of geospatial data and tools to engage in relevant research.
This program deals with the meridional overturning in the North Pacific Ocean, which is controlled by Dense Shelf Water (DSW) formation in the Sea of Okhotsk. DSW entrains a lot of materials, such as dissolved oxygen, CO2 and iron, and carries them to the North Pacific through the intermediate layer of the ocean. The overturning intensity due to the DSW formation is determined by salinity along the northern coast of the Sea of Okhotsk. One of controlling factors is surface salinity anomaly originating in the North Pacific Ocean, which propagates into the Sea of Okhotsk via the Kuril Straits. Here, we propose to investigate the effects of freshwater discharges from the Eurasian and North American continents on the overturning circulation in the North Pacific. The riverine freshwater causes salinity anomaly along the continental margins, reaches the region of the DSW formation, and controls the overturning circulation efficiently. We pay attention not only to the effects of the freshwater discharge in the present days but also to those in the Last Glacier Maximum, during which rapid ice sheet discharge occurred around the Gulf of Alaska preceding the Heinrich events.
Novel semiconductor materials are necessary for next-generation energy
efficient optoelectronic and photovoltaic applications. Such materials
should be environment friendly and cost-effective. Also, characteristics
such as efficient absorption of light, low exciton binding energy,
minimal nonradiative carrier recombination, and defect-free structures
are some of the pre-requisites of high quality semiconductors for
optical and photovoltaic applications. Superlattices of such quantum
dots offer many-fold opportunities to develop energy efficient photonic
and photovoltaic devices. The purpose of this research is to develop
novel non-toxic and low bandgap semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) and
preparation of their superlattices for efficient utilization and
harvesting of energy. A successful candidate is expected have a Masters
Degree in Chemistry at the time of joining and he/she is required to
have the knowledge of wet chemical reactions, and fundamentals of
electronic spectroscopy.
EPEES: English Program of Environmental Earth Science for a Sustainable Society (Graduate School of Environmental Science)
EPEES application period for the enrollment in April 2022 has ended.
Admission Requirements for the EPEES
Master’s Course applicants must:
have finished (or be expected to finish) 16 years of education by the month before the enrollment period;
hold a Bachelor’s degree in any field.
Doctoral Course applicants must:
have finished (or be expected to finish) 18 years of education by the month before the enrollment period;
hold a Master’s degree in any field.
Regular Admission
Regular entrance examination application documents should be submitted to the Academic Affairs Office by a designated deadline of each entrance examination. See the Graduate School of Environmental Science (GSES) website for details of the regular entrance examination: https://www.ees.hokudai.ac.jp/?page_id=2720&lang=en
Pre-arrival Admission
Several applicants may qualify for pre-arrival admission, which enables them to take entrance examinations in their own countries by using the equipment like the Zoom, Skype or Polycom meeting system if it is settled in their universities. If it is difficult to take the interview by using the equipment, there are some cases we cannot accept their applications. To apply for pre-arrival admission, submit the documents listed below for screening by November 12, 2021 by email. If interested, contact the Academic Affairs Office of GSES before proceeding for further information.
1. Admission Application form with ID photo (The designated form must be used, and will be provided upon request. The photo should be taken on August 12, 2021 or later, 4 x 3 cm, upper body, facing forward with no headwear).
2. Curriculum Vitae (The designated form must be used, and will be provided upon request)
3. Graduation Certificate (or Certificate of Expected Graduation)
4. Academic Transcript
5. Copy of passport “face page”
6. For the Master’s Course, a 1,000-word essay on the reasons for the application and your research plan within the program
7. For the Doctoral Course, a 1,500-word essay on the reasons for the application and your research plan within the program
8. Applicants should submit a copy of TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS score sheet. The validity of the score sheet is within 2 years preceding the date of entrance examination. 9. Applicants from EEA member countries should submit a Consent to Transfer and Process Personal Data.
Announcement of Pre-arrival Examination Candidates
Applicants selected as candidates for pre-arrival examination based on document screening will be notified by the beginning of January 2022 and should send all additional forms for the entrance examination. These forms must be submitted with the examination fee (JPY 30,000) by January 21, 2022 after receiving the notification. * See the GSES website for details of the regular entrance examination.
Entrance Examination and Interviews in Candidates’ Own Countries
Entrance examinations and pre-arrival examination interviews may be held in candidates’ own countries by using the equipment like the Zoom, Skype or Polycom meeting system on a day designated individually. Information on exact dates, times and locations will be provided after screening. Interviewees will be asked about their Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis and future plans for study on the Master’s or Doctoral courses, respectively.
Enrollment without Pre-arrival Examination
Applicants not qualifying for pre-arrival examination can take the regular entrance examination. Applications must be submitted by a designated deadline of each entrance examination.
This program will select students, who can likely contribute internationally in their research field, from those students applying to doctoral courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science (GSES). It is very meaningful to participate in research as a Research Assistant (RA) for the development of your research ability. Each Research Assistant must serve to achieve the objective of a research subject directed by a faculty member of the GSES.
Period
Maximum 3 years since the first year although the achievement of the objective must be evaluated each year by the committee of the faculty.
Qualifications of application (Eligibility):
Students (mainly from developing countries) who are going to seek admission to the doctor courses of GSES.
Payment Exemption / RA Allowance:
Payment Exemption: Total amount of school fees are entirely covered by Hokkaido University (i.e., entrance exam fee of JPY 30,000, admission fee of JPY 282,000, and annual tuition fee of JPY 535,800 for each of three years).
RA Allowance (depending on the actual working time): Total: 3 million yen (1 million yen for each of three years)
Travel expenses of entrance exam should be paid by applicant.
Applicants are required to submit the documents listed below. The documents should not be written in a language other than English.
Curriculum vitae with the applicant’s photograph
Academic transcript
Graduation certificate
List of publications and presentations in scientific meetings
Research proposal
Direction and comments of potential supervisor and at least one co-supervisor, including proofs of communication between you and the potential supervisors
Master’s thesis or other documents in proof of your research ability
Special Program for Graduate School of Environmental Science “Environmental Conservation Leaders for Post SDGs”
The International Priority Graduate Programs (IPGP)
Graduate School of Environmental Science (GSES) has conducted the International Priority Graduate Programs (IGBP) supported by the MEXT since 2015.
This program provides excellent foreign students with a good opportunity to learn and research environmental sciences in Japan, as well as with a scholarship and other supports.
Special Grant Program for International Students / Research Assistant Program of Graduate School of Environmental Science (October 2021)
This program will select students, who can likely contribute internationally in their research field, from those students applying to doctoral courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
It is very meaningful to participate in research as a Research Assistant (RA) for the development of your research ability. Each Research Assistant must serve to achieve the objective of a research subject directed by a faculty member of the Graduate School of Environmental Science. The research subjects are listed below.
Period
Maximum 3 years since the first year although the achievement of the objective must be evaluated each year by the committee of the faculty.
Qualifications of application (Eligibility):
Students (mainly from developing countries) who are going to seek admission to the doctor courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
Payment Exemption / RA Allowance:
Payment Exemption: Total amount of school fees are entirely covered by Hokkaido University (i.e., entrance exam fee of 30,000 yen, admission fee of 282,000 yen, and annual tuition fee of 535,800 yen for each of three years). RA Allowance (depending on the actual working time): Total: 3 million yen (1 million yen for each of three years) Travel expenses of entrance exam should be paid by applicant.
Application Period
Until June 21 Monday, 2021
Application for the program:
Applicants are required to submit the documents listed below. The documents should not be written in a language other than English.
Curriculum vitae with the applicant's photograph
Academic transcript
Graduation certificate
List of publications and presentations in scientific meetings
Research proposal
Direction and comments of potential supervisor and at least one co-supervisor, including proofs of communication between you and the potential supervisors
Master's thesis or other documents in proof of your research ability
Reference and address to apply
Kyoumu-Tantou
Graduate School of Environmental Science
Hokkaido University
Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0810 Japan
E-mail: kyomu (at) ees.hokudai.ac.jp
Globally, the number of disasters are increasing dramatically. The main cause of this increase is the high frequency of extreme weather events. Typhoon and landslides are one of the catastrophic hazards affecting forest ecosystem. The impact of these hazards can be minimized using various management approaches. Geospatial data have a potential to monitor and assess forest damage and recovery after these hazards. The aim of this study is to apply geospatial and ground-based information to monitor forest cover changes. Successful candidate is required to have knowledge of geospatial data and tools to engage in relevant research.
EPEES: English Program of Environmental Earth Science for a Sustainable Society (Graduate School of Environmental Science)
EPEES application period for the enrollment in October 2021 has ended.
Admission Requirements for the EPEES
Master’s Course applicants must:
have finished (or be expected to finish) 16 years of education by the month before the enrollment period;
hold a Bachelor’s degree in any field.
Doctoral Course applicants must:
have finished (or be expected to finish) 18 years of education by the month before the enrollment period;
hold a Master’s degree in any field.
Regular Admission
Regular entrance examination application documents should be submitted to the Academic Affairs Office by a designated deadline of each entrance examination. See the Graduate School of Environmental Science (GSES) website for details of the regular entrance examination: (https://www.ees.hokudai.ac.jp/?page_id=2720&lang=en)
Pre-arrival Admission
Several applicants may qualify for pre-arrival admission, which enables them to take entrance examinations in their own countries by using the equipment like the Zoom, Skype or Polycom meeting system if it is settled in their universities. If it is difficult to take the interview by using the equipment, there are some cases we cannot accept their applications. To apply for pre-arrival admission, submit the documents listed below for screening by May 12, 2021 by email (our office will be closed from May 1 through 5 during national holidays). If interested, contact the Academic Affairs Office of GSES before proceeding for further information.
1. Admission Application form with ID photo (the designated form must be used, and will be provided upon request. The photo should be taken on February 12, 2021 or later, 4 x 3 cm, upper body, facing forward with no headwear).
2. Curriculum Vitae (the designated form must be used, and will be provided upon request)
3. Graduation Certificate (or Certificate of Expected Graduation)
4. Academic Transcript
5. Copy of passport “face page”
6. For the Master’s ’s Course, a 1000-word essay on the reasons for the application and your research plan within the program
7. For the Doctoral Course, a 1500-word essay on the reasons for the application and your research plan within the program
8. Applicants should submit a copy of TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS score sheet obtained within the last two years with the application.
Announcement of Pre-arrival Examination Candidates
Applicants selected as candidates for Pre-arrival Examination based on document screening will be notified by the beginning of July 2021 and should send all additional forms for the entrance examination. These forms must be submitted with the examination fee (JPY 30,000) by July 16, 2021 after receiving the notification. * See the GSES website for details of the regular entrance examination.
Entrance Examination and Interviews in Candidates’ Own Countries
Entrance examinations and pre-arrival examination interviews may be held in candidates’ own countries by using the equipment like the Zoom, Skype or Polycom meeting system on a day designated individually. Information on exact dates, times and locations will be provided after screening. Interviewees will be asked about their Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis and future plans for study on the Master’s or Doctoral courses, respectively.
Enrollment without Pre-arrival Examination
Applicants not qualifying for pre-arrival Examination can take the regular entrance examination. Applications must be submitted by a designated deadline of each entrance examination.
2021 JAPANESE GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIP FOR OVERSEAS RESEARCH STUDENTS (UNIVERSITY-RECOMMENDED MEXT SCHOLARSHIP)〔Special Program for Graduate School of Environmental Science〕 “Environmental Conservation Leaders for Post SDGs”
2021 JAPANESE GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIP FOR OVERSEAS RESEARCH STUDENTS (UNIVERSITY-RECOMMENDED MEXT SCHOLARSHIP) application for the enrollment in October 2021 is currently being invited.
1. A number of Slots
3 for Master’s Course and 5 for Doctoral Course
2.Qualifications
1) Eligibility:
Overseas students with excellent academic records who newly come to Japan to study at master’s or doctoral level.
2) Language level/ability:
Those who satisfy at least one of the following conditions of English proficiency.
Those who acquire B2 or higher level of CEFR or the equivalent grade/score on language test of the same level at the admittance to the regular courses.
Those who completed educational curriculum to fulfill the requirement for admission to Master’s or Doctoral program at academic institute in Japan, with English-medium instruction.
3)Others
Please ask your prospective supervisors about other qualifications.
3) A passport-style photograph taken in the last 6 months, cut to 45mm x 35mm, upper body, full faced, uncapped. Write your name and nationality on the back. Adhere to your application form as advised, or insert an image in electronic format onto your application form. (should be ORIGINAL)
4) Proof of nationality (e.g. photocopied passport, family register or proof of citizenship) (hard copy)
5) Official academic transcript of the most recent degree issued by the university which the applicant is a graduate of (either an undergraduate or postgraduate degree) (hard copy)
6) Certificate of graduation, graduation letter or diploma of the most recent degree issued by the university which the applicant is a graduate of (either an undergraduate or postgraduate degree) (hard copy)
7) Record of high academic achievements earned at the most recent university which the applicant is a graduate of. (hard copy)
8) Letter of recommendation from the dean of the graduate school to which the applicant belongs, or someone in higher position, addressed to the president of Hokkaido University, Prof. Kiyohiro Houkin (hard copy)
9) Abstracts of thesis or academic papers (please provide brief summaries) (hard copy)
10) Objective evidence of eligibility of language proficiency described “Language level/ability”(incl. TOEFL/IELTS JLPT certificates) (hard copy)
13) Recommendation letter from the supervisor of the graduate school to which the applicant belongs or the other faculty who knows the applicant very well. (hard copy)
Application Submission Deadline through a Prospective Supervisor
February 22, 2021 * Pleae submit all documents to a prospective supervisor.
Selection Notification Dates
The internal notification date: Late March 2021(tentative) The final notification date: Late June 2021(tentative)
Admissions
If the scholarship application is accepted, applicants need to take entrance examination in August, 2021. They will start master’s or doctoral program in October, 2021. There will not be a research student period. See the Graduate School website for details of the regular entrance examination. (https://www.ees.hokudai.ac.jp/?page_id=2724&lang=en)
Contact
The Academic Affairs Section, Graduate School of Environmental Science, Hokkaido University. E-mail: kyomu＠ees.hokudai.ac.jp Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan Phone: +81-11-706-2205
Special Grant Program for International Students / Research Assistant Program of Graduate School of Environmental Science (April 2021)
This program will select students, who can likely contribute internationally in their research field, from those students applying to doctoral courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
It is very meaningful to participate in research as a Research Assistant (RA) for the development of your research ability. Each Research Assistant must serve to achieve the objective of a research subject directed by a faculty member of the Graduate School of Environmental Science. The research subjects are listed below.
Period
Maximum 3 years since the first year although the achievement of the objective must be evaluated each year by the committee of the faculty.
Qualifications of application (Eligibility):
Students (mainly from developing countries) who are going to seek admission to the doctor courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
Payment Exemption / RA Allowance:
Payment Exemption: Total amount of school fees are entirely covered by Hokkaido University (i.e., entrance exam fee of 30,000 yen, admission fee of 282,000 yen, and annual tuition fee of 535,800 yen for each of three years). RA Allowance (depending on the actual working time): Total: 3 million yen (1 million yen for each of three years) Travel expenses of entrance exam should be paid by applicant.
Application Period
Until December 21 Monday, 2020
Application for the program:
Applicants are required to submit the documents listed below. The documents should not be written in a language other than English.
Curriculum vitae with the applicant's photograph
Academic transcript
Graduation certificate
List of publications and presentations in scientific meetings
Research proposal
Direction and comments of potential supervisor and at least one co-supervisor, including proofs of communication between you and the potential supervisors
Master's thesis or other documents in proof of your research ability
Reference and address to apply
Kyoumu-Tantou
Graduate School of Environmental Science
Hokkaido University
Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0810 Japan
E-mail: kyomu (at) ees.hokudai.ac.jp
Clarifying the responses of forest and tree populations to climatic conditions is crucial to predict and mitigate the impact of global climate change on terrestrial ecosystems. For this purpose, this study analyzes the long-term monitoring data of forest plots in diverse environments in Asia-Pacific region. As climatic factors, we focus on temperature, rainfall and snowfall gradients, which are likely to change in a future warmer Earth. Successful applicants are required to have knowledge and skills of plant ecology of forest ecosystems.
Atmospheric circulation is sensitive to the underlying land surface conditions, such as those reflecting natural variabilities (e.g., soil, snow, and ecosystem) and anthropogenic activities (e.g., land use and land cover changes). This project proposes to investigate the interaction between land and atmosphere, aiming to improve weather and climate predictions in sub-seasonal to seasonal timescales. The successful candidate will use global climate data and conduct climate model simulations. Hence, the background knowledge on atmospheric sciences and programming language is needed.
Geospatial data on plantation health acquired from multi-sensor remote sensing techniques provides valuable information for sustainable plantation management especially in the tropical region. Southeast Asia has a high rate of tropical forests conversion to various types of plantation such as oil palm, rubber and industrial forest where unsustainable practices possess adverse effects on the environment. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor the plantation area closely with the help of multi-sensor remote sensing and geospatial technologies. The study aims to investigate the role of multi-sensor remote sensing data and advanced InSAR and PolSAR techniques to monitor biophysical parameters of oil palm and industrial forest plantations. These techniques shall be able to provide information about plant's biophysical parameters such as height, density, biomass, age, and canopy cover etc. Successful candidates are required to have knowledge also experiences of multi-sensor remote sensing data processing and application in the plantation areas.
Special Grant Program for International Students / Research Assistant Program of Graduate School of Environmental Science (October 2020)
This program will select students, who can likely contribute internationally in their research field, from those students applying to doctoral courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
It is very meaningful to participate in research as a Research Assistant (RA) for the development of your research ability. Each Research Assistant must serve to achieve the objective of a research subject directed by a faculty member of the Graduate School of Environmental Science. The research subjects are listed below.
Period
Maximum 3 years since the first year although the achievement of the objective must be evaluated each year by the committee of the faculty.
Qualifications of application (Eligibility):
Students (mainly from developing countries) who are going to seek admission to the doctor courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
Payment Exemption / RA Allowance:
Payment Exemption: Total amount of school fees are entirely covered by Hokkaido University (i.e., entrance exam fee of 30,000 yen, admission fee of 282,000 yen, and annual tuition fee of 535,800 yen for each of three years). RA Allowance (depending on the actual working time): Total: 3 million yen (1 million yen for each of three years) Travel expenses of entrance exam should be paid by applicant.
Application Period
Until June 22 Monday, 2020
Application for the program:
Applicants are required to submit the documents listed below. The documents should not be written in a language other than English.
Curriculum vitae with the applicant’s photograph
Academic transcript
Graduation certificate
List of publications and presentations in scientific meetings
Research proposal
Direction and comments of potential supervisor and at least one co-supervisor, including proofs of communication between you and the potential supervisors
Master’s thesis or other documents in proof of your research ability
Reference and address to apply
Kyoumu-Tantou Graduate School of Environmental Science Hokkaido University Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0810 Japan E-mail: kyomu (at) ees.hokudai.ac.jp
List of possible research subjects (2020)
Title: Study on water purification using metal-organic frameworks
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) constructed from metal nodes and organic bridging ligands are next-generation porous materials showing excellent gas adsorption/separation, catalytic, and conducting properties. This study aims at investigating adsorption properties of MOFs for environmental contaminants in water toward future practical applications.
Title: Study on coastal ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR)
Ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR) is a concept to alleviate natural disasters to human societies by maintaining ecosystems and natural capitals. This study aims to issue scientific guidelines for applying the Eco-DRR to local societies in coastal regions, especially enhancing various ecosystem services of coastal ecosystems, such as coral reefs, seaweeds and mangroves. Successful candidates are required to have already acquired or will acquire skills soon after starting the Ph.D. course that are necessary to engage in relevant studies, such as numerical modeling, remote sensing and monitoring (observation).
Title: Molecular mechanisms underlying responses to mineral nutrient stresses in plants
Sustainable agricultural production is one big challenge for sustainable society in the world. For this purpose, it is crucial to improve plant productivities in unfertile soils with low input, and development of crop cultivars tolerant to environmental stresses is one of the most effective strategies. This study aims to identify the key genes required for tolerance to mineral nutrient stresses and reveal the molecular mechanisms by molecular genetics with a model plant. Successful candidates are required to have knowledge on genetics and basic experimental skills for molecular biology.
EPEES: English Program of Environmental Earth Science for a Sustainable Society (Graduate School of Environmental Science)
EPEES applications for the enrollment in October 2020 and April 2021 are currently being invited.
Admission Requirements for the EPEES Master’s Course
Master’s Course applicants must:
have finished (or be expected to finish) 16 years of education by the month before the enrollment period;
hold a Bachelor’s master in any field.
Admission Requirements for the EPEES Doctoral Course
Doctoral Course applicants must:
have finished (or be expected to finish) 18 years of education by the month before the enrollment period;
hold a Master’s degree in any field.
Regular Admission
Regular entrance examination application documents should be submitted to the Academic Affairs Office by July 17, 2020. See the Graduate School website for details of the regular entrance examination (will be updated in May). (https://www.ees.hokudai.ac.jp/?page_id=2720&lang=en)
Pre-arrival Admission
Several applicants may qualify for Pre-arrival Admission, which enables them to take entrance examinations in their own countries by using the equipment like the Polycom or Skype system if it is settled in their universities. If it is difficult to take the interview by using the equipment, there are some cases we cannot accept their applications. To apply for Pre-arrival Admission, submit the documents listed below for screening by May 11, 2020 by email (our office will be closed between May 2 to 6 due to National holidays). If interested, contact the Academic Affairs Office of our graduate school before proceeding for further information.
1. Admission Application form with ID photo (The designated form must be used, and will be provided upon request. The photo should be taken on February 11, 2020or later, 4 x 3 cm, upper body, facing forward with no headwear).
2. Curriculum Vitae (The designated form must be used, and will be provided upon request)
3. Graduation Certificate (or Certificate of Expected Graduation)
4. Academic Transcript
5. Copy of passport “face page”
6. For the Master’s ’s Course, a 1,000-word essay on the reasons for the application and your research plan within the program
7. For the Doctoral Course, a 1,500-word essay on the reasons for the application and your research plan within the program
8. Applicants should submit a copy of TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS score sheet obtained within the last two years with the application.
Announcement of Pre-arrival Examination Candidates
Applicants selected as candidates for Pre-arrival Examination based on document screening will be notified by the beginning of July 2020 and should send all additional forms for the entrance examination. These forms must be submitted with the examination fee (JPY 30,000) by July 17, 2020 after receiving the notification. * See the Graduate School website for details of the regular entrance examination.
Entrance Examination and Interviews in Candidates’ Own Countries Entrance examinations and Pre-arrival Examination interviews will be held by using the equipment like Polycom or Skype system if it is settled in your university by August 25, 2020. Information on exact dates, times and locations will be provided after screening. Interviewees will be asked about their Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis and future plans for study on the Master’s or Doctoral courses, respectively.
Enrollment without Pre-arrival Examination
Applicants not qualifying for Pre-arrival Examination can take the regular entrance examination for the Global Environmental Management Course at the Division of Environmental Science Development. Applications must be submitted by July 17, 2020.
Announcement of Successful Candidates
The final successful candidates will be announced on September 3, 2020.
Scholarships
EPEES program does not offer a scholarship for the students. A few students may get the Monbukagakusho Scholarship for Privately Financed International Students; a monthly amount of JPY 48,000 for six months or one year after their arrival in Japan.
Contact
Dr. Tatsufumi Okino (program supervisor) E-mail: okino＠ees.hokudai.ac.jp Academic Affairs Office, Graduate School of Environmental Science, Hokkaido University Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan E-mail: kyomu@ees.hokudai.ac.jp Phone: +81-11-706-2205
Characteristics of EPEES
EPEES is a Graduate School of Environmental Science English program with Master’s and Doctoral courses.
The program is intended to foster the development of professionals and researchers who can contribute to solve international environmental problems with extensive knowledge and global perspectives.
The program is conducted entirely in English.
Students are required to pursue a main research topic and study a sub-research topic as a mini-project.
The program is run by the Division of Environmental Science Development in conjunction with three other Graduate School divisions.
Pre-arrival Admission * may be offered on the program. * See the information on Pre-arrival Admission and scholarships.
Introduction
Globalization has caused various environmental issues around the world that often transcend borders. In order to solve these problems, to conserve the earth’s precious environment for future generations and to build up a sustainable society, this program is intended to foster the development of professionals and researchers who can contribute to the protection of global and local environments based on extensive knowledge, global perspectives and the ability to act practically using their expertise. Graduates are expected to understand different cultures, customs and values, and to be able to cope with environmental problems in collaboration with researchers and experts from various countries. The program involves practical education in English through classes, work and seminars with the aim of seeking ways to maintain and enhance the sustainability of the earth’s system. Students adopt a main theme for their Master’s or Doctoral thesis under a supervisor, and simultaneously study a sub-research topic from a different field within a study group. This approach fosters the ability to judge international environmental problems appropriately on the basis of interdisciplinary focus.
Special Research for Theses
Students perform two or three years of special research under a supervisor on a main topic chosen from the fields of study listed below, and also investigate a sub-research topic as a mini-project in the course seminar. The sub-research topic should be in a field different from that of the main topic. Fields of Study
Human and Ecological Systems, Environmental Adaptation Science, Practical Science for the Environment, Global Environmental Management (Division of Environmental Science Development)
Biogeochemistry, Atmosphere-Ocean and Climate Dynamics, Cryosphere Science (Division of Earth System Science)
Biodiversity Science, Ecological Genetics, Molecular Biology, Plant Ecology, Animal Ecology, Marine Biogeochemistry and Biology, Aquatic Biology, Forest Field Science, Agro-Ecosystem Science (Division of Biosphere Science)
Biomaterials Chemistry, Environmental Nano-Materials, Molecular Photonics and Electronics Science, Environmental Catalytic Chemistry (Division of Environmental Materials Science)
Master’s Course: Completion Requirements
In order to complete the course and obtain a Master in Environmental Science degree, students must earn 30 credits or more from the categories listed below. Compulsory Subjects: 16 credits
Seminar in Environmental Science Development I (Program Seminar) (4 credits)
Special Research in Environmental Science Development I (8 credits)
Two core subjects (4 credits)
Optional Subjects: (14 credits)
Students may choose from the advanced subjects, common subjects and laboratory and fieldwork areas listed below.
Doctoral Course: Completion Requirements
In order to complete the course and obtain a Doctor in Environmental Science degree, students must:
take the Seminar in Environmental Science Development II (Program Seminar) (4 credits) and Special Research in Environmental Science Development II (8 credits);
take two core subjects (4 credits);
submit a dissertation in English and pass a dissertation review;
have at least one paper published from an international peer-reviewed scientific journal.
EPEES Curriculum
1. Core Subjects
Fundamental Course in Environmental Science (2 credits)
Introduction to Environmental Science (2 credits)
Introduction to Global Environmental Management (2 credits)
2. Elective Courses
Fundamental Course in Biogeochemistry (2 credits)
Fundamental Course in Atmosphere-Ocean Physics (2 credits)
Fundamental Course in Biological Diversity (2 credits)
Fundamental Course in Biodiversity of Northern Ecosystems (2 credits)
Fundamental Course in Molecular Biology (2 credits)
Fundamental Course in Materials Science Ⅰ (2 credits)
Fundamental Course in Materials Science Ⅱ (2 credits)
Fundamental Course in Materials Science Ⅲ (2 credits)
Fundamental Course in Environmental Science Research (1 credits)
Introduction to Natural Environmental Studies (2 credits)
Introduction to Renewable Energy(2 credits)
Introduction to Circumpolar North (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Environmental Pollution Comparison (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Geoecological Resources (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Climate Change Impacts (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Hydrological Cycle (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Environmental Geoinformatics (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Water Resources (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Watershed Environmental Science (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Environmental Conservation (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Environmental Adaptation (2 credits)
Advanced Course of International Science Communication Methods (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Academic English Writing for Environmental Sciences (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Paleoclimatology (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Ocean Biogeochemistry (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Ecosystems and Environments(2 credits)
Advanced Course in Theoretical Glaciology (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Molecular Photonics and Electronics Science Ⅰ (2 credits)
Advanced Course in Environmental Catalytic Chemistry Ⅱ (2 credits)
Special Lecture in Environmental Science Development Ⅱ (2 credits)
Special Lecture in Environmental Science Development Ⅲ (2 credits)
Special Lecture in Biosphere Science Ⅱ (2 credits)
Other Lectures conducted in English
3. Work and Seminars
Laboratory Work in Environmental Analysis (4 credits)
Laboratory Work in Environmental Materials Science Ⅰ (4 credits)
Laboratory Work in Environmental Materials Science Ⅱ (4 credits)
EPEES Program Seminar (GEM Course Seminar)
Other Course or Laboratory seminar
4. Special Research and Reading
Seminar in Environmental Science Development Ⅰ (for Master’s Course) (4 credits)
Research in Environmental Science Development Ⅰ (for Master’s Thesis) (8credits)
Seminar in Environmental Science Development Ⅱ (for Doctoral Course) (4 credits)
Research in Environmental Science Development Ⅱ (for Doctoral Dissertation) (8credits)
Special Grant Program for International Students / Research Assistant Program of Graduate School of Environmental Science (April 2020)
This program will select students, who can likely contribute internationally in their research field, from those students applying to doctoral courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
It is very meaningful to participate in research as a Research Assistant (RA) for the development of your research ability. Each Research Assistant must serve to achieve the objective of a research subject directed by a faculty member of the Graduate School of Environmental Science. The research subjects are listed below.
Period
Maximum 3 years since the first year although the achievement of the objective must be evaluated each year by the committee of the faculty.
Qualifications of application (Eligibility):
Students (mainly from developing countries) who are going to seek admission to the doctor courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
Payment Exemption / RA Allowance:
Payment Exemption: Total amount of school fees are entirely covered by Hokkaido University (i.e., entrance exam fee of 30,000 yen, admission fee of 282,000 yen, and annual tuition fee of 535,800 yen for each of three years). RA Allowance (depending on the actual working time): Total: 3 million yen (1 million yen for each of three years) Travel expenses of entrance exam should be paid by applicant.
Application Period
Until December 19 Wednesday, 2019
Application for the program:
Applicants are required to submit the documents listed below. The documents should not be written in a language other than English.
Curriculum vitae with the applicant’s photograph
Academic transcript
Graduation certificate
List of publications and presentations in scientific meetings
Research proposal
Direction and comments of potential supervisor and at least one co-supervisor, including proofs of communication between you and the potential supervisors
Master’s thesis or other documents in proof of your research ability
Reference and address to apply
Kyoumu-Tantou Graduate School of Environmental Science Hokkaido University Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0810 Japan E-mail: kyomu (at) ees.hokudai.ac.jp
List of possible research subjects (2020)
Title: Study on coastal ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR)
Ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR) is a concept to alleviate natural disasters to human societies by maintaining ecosystems and natural capitals. This study aims to issue scientific guidelines for applying the Eco-DRR to local societies in coastal regions, especially enhancing various ecosystem services of coastal ecosystems, such as coral reefs, seaweeds and mangroves. Successful candidates are required to have already acquired or will acquire skills soon after starting the Ph.D. course that are necessary to engage in relevant studies, such as numerical modeling, remote sensing and monitoring (observation).
Dr. Theodore Muth (Brooklyn College, City University of New York)
Title:
Agrobacterium tumefaciens Attachment and T-DNA Integration – understanding the “root” to infection of host plants
Summary:
While several aspects of A. tumefaciens infection and transformation of plants are well understood, there are questions that remain concerning the attachment of the bacteria to host plants and the integration of T- DNA into the host cell genome. Work from our lab has focused on these questions and has applied novel approaches in an attempt to gain a more thorough understanding of these steps in the infection.
The standard approach to genetically modify plants relies on Agrobacterium tumefaciens to transfer foreign DNA (T-DNA) into plant cells where it can become a permanent part of the plant cell’s genome and express engineered traits. While A. tumefaciens transformation of plants has been used extensively, there are aspects of the process that are incompletely understood. To study the timing and factors influencing the location of T-DNA insertions, we used a modified adapter ligation- mediated PCR strategy, coupled with next generation sequencing, to identify T-DNA integration sites into the genome of Arabidopsis.
Previous reports examining T-DNA integration have relied on selective conditions, floral dip transformation, artificial virulence induction or use of cultured suspension plant cells. Our approach attempts to closely match natural infection conditions by using cut Arabidopsis root segments infected with uninduced A. tumefaciens and no selection for T- DNA integration events. A more thorough understanding of T-DNA integration will guide future experiments to develop the techniques to engineer plants more efficiently than is currently possible.
Date/Time & Venue:
2019年7月25日（木）10:00 – 11:00
地球環境科学研究院 管理棟２階会議室
10:00-11:00, 25th July, 2019
Graduate School of Environmental Science, Room E206
世話人：三輪
<< Part 2>>
Speaker:
Dr. Theodore Muth (Brooklyn College, City University of New York)
Title:
The Urban Microbiome ? a new census of the city
Abstract:
Our recent work using culture-independent (metagenomic) based strategies to study microbial communities shows an unexpectedly high level of biodiversity in urban microbiomes in a number of sites including parks, waterways, subway systems, and green infrastructure installations. The factors underlying the establishment of these diverse communities are not well understood, but it suggests that urban microbial communities represent a significant unknown element of phylogenetic, genetic, and functional biodiversity. A better understanding of these influences on multiple aspects of biodiversity will inform the design, construction, placement, and maintenance of urban environmental elements (such as green infrastructure) to maximize their ecosystem services. More fundamentally, our work offers a novel platform for exploration of basic science aspects of dimensions of biodiversity.
Date/Time & Venue:
2019年7月25日（木）16:00 – 17:00
地球環境科学研究院 管理棟２階会議室
16:00-17:00, 25th July, 2019
Graduate School of Environmental Science, Room E206
Special Grant Program for International Students / Research Assistant Program of Graduate School of Environmental Science (October 2019)
This program will select students, who can likely contribute internationally in their research field, from those students applying to doctoral courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
It is very meaningful to participate in research as a Research Assistant (RA) for the development of your research ability. Each Research Assistant must serve to achieve the objective of a research subject directed by a faculty member of the Graduate School of Environmental Science. The research subjects are listed below.
Period
Maximum 3 years since the first year although the achievement of the objective must be evaluated each year by the committee of the faculty.
Qualifications of application (Eligibility):
Students (mainly from developing countries) who are going to seek admission to the doctor courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
Payment Exemption / RA Allowance:
Payment Exemption: Total amount of school fees are entirely covered by Hokkaido University (i.e., entrance exam fee of 30,000 yen, admission fee of 282,000 yen, and annual tuition fee of 535,800 yen for each of three years). RA Allowance (depending on the actual working time): Total: 3 million yen (1 million yen for each of three years) Travel expenses of entrance exam should be paid by applicant.
Application Period
Until June 21 Friday, 2019
Application for the program:
Applicants are required to submit the documents listed below. The documents should not be written in a language other than English.
Curriculum vitae with the applicant's photograph
Academic transcript
Graduation certificate
List of publications and presentations in scientific meetings
Research proposal
Direction and comments of potential supervisor and at least one co-supervisor, including proofs of communication between you and the potential supervisors
Master's thesis or other documents in proof of your research ability
Reference and address to apply
Kyoumu-Tantou
Graduate School of Environmental Science
Hokkaido University
Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0810 Japan
E-mail: kyomu (at) ees.hokudai.ac.jp
Cyanobacteria are rich source of secondary metabolites. We aim at isolation, structure elucidation, biological activity evaluation and biosynthesis of cyanobacterial metabolites. Especially we are interested in secondary metabolites which could be synthesized by silent genes. We are seeking for a new method to express silent genes of biosynthetic enzymes.
Natural products including halogen atoms are often found in land and marine organisms, and have unique biological activities. Supply of these natural products is required toward further biological studies for human health and environmental material because of trace amount from the natural sources. To synthesize the halogen-containing compounds, effective synthetic methodologies, especially for halohydrin functionality, are limited. Prior to the synthesis of the natural product, the development of new method for the halohydrin functionality has been planned.
Environmental pollution and global warming by greenhouse gases and other chemicals released by certain industries and automobiles are serious problems facing humanity. These problems are directly related to our ever-increasing energy needs. Therefore, the construction of systems that efficiently produce green and clean energy is an important challenge in science and technology today. Aim of this project is to develop novel metal-semiconductor hybrid nanomaterials for the control of photogenerated charge carriers and excitons and carrying out energy efficient chemical reactions. Such nanomaterials are expected to become primary components of solar energy harvesting and conversion systems. Successful candidates should have sound knowledge on materials chemistry, physical chemistry and electronic spectroscopy.
Environmental pollution and global warming by greenhouse gases and other chemicals released by certain industries and automobiles are serious problems facing humanity. These problems are directly related to our ever-increasing energy needs. Therefore, the construction of energy efficient devices such as LEDs and solar cells is an important challenge in basic science and industry. Aim of this project is to develop novel luminescent semiconductor nanomaterials and modify their surfaces with molecular systems, which is for minimizing atomic and electronic defects. Such luminescent nanomaterials are expected to become parts of future LEDs and solar cells. Successful candidates should have sound knowledge on organic and inorganic chemical reactions and electronic spectroscopy.
Photocatalytic reactions driven by photoirradiated semiconducting materials such as titanium(IV) oxide can be applied to solar-energy conversion and decomposition of environmental contaminants in air and/or water. For the latter, practical application has been successfully performed from the standpoint of engineering. This study aims at clarifying the fundamental aspects of photocatalytic decontamination reaction from the standpoint of their thermodynamics and kinetics.
Special Grant Program for International Students / Research Assistant Program of Graduate School of Environmental Science (April 2019)
This program will select students, who can likely contribute internationally in their research field, from those students applying to doctoral courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
It is very meaningful to participate in research as a Research Assistant (RA) for the development of your research ability. Each Research Assistant must serve to achieve the objective of a research subject directed by a faculty member of the Graduate School of Environmental Science. The research subjects are listed below.
Period
Maximum 3 years since the first year although the achievement of the objective must be evaluated each year by the committee of the faculty.
Qualifications of application (Eligibility):
Students (mainly from developing countries) who are going to seek admission to the doctor courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
Payment Exemption / RA Allowance:
Payment Exemption: Total amount of school fees are entirely covered by Hokkaido University (i.e., entrance exam fee of 30,000 yen, admission fee of 282,000 yen, and annual tuition fee of 535,800 yen for each of three years). RA Allowance (depending on the actual working time): Total: 3 million yen (1 million yen for each of three years) Travel expenses of entrance exam should be paid by applicant.
Application Period
Until December 12 Wednesday, 2018
Application for the program:
Applicants are required to submit the documents listed below. The documents should not be written in a language other than English.
Curriculum vitae with the applicant's photograph
Academic transcript
Graduation certificate
List of publications and presentations in scientific meetings
Research proposal
Direction and comments of potential supervisor and at least one co-supervisor, including proofs of communication between you and the potential supervisors
Master's thesis or other documents in proof of your research ability
Reference and address to apply
Kyoumu-Tantou
Graduate School of Environmental Science
Hokkaido University
Kita 10, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0810 Japan
E-mail: kyomu (at) ees.hokudai.ac.jp
Ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR) is a concept to alleviate disasters to human societies by maintaining ecosystems and the ecosystem services. This study aims to issue scientific guidelines for applying the Eco-DRR to local societies in coastal regions, especially enhancing functions of coastal ecosystems, such as coral reefs, seaweeds and mangroves. Successful candidates are highly expected to have basic skills in numerical modeling and/or operating satellite data.
Rivers provide ocean with many materials such as nutrients, sediment, pollutants and freshwater which influence ocean circulations, environment and aquaculture. Human also have significant impacts on the land-ocean linkage systems. This study aims to model and analyze water exchanges, mixing processes and material circulations through river-lagoon-ocean systems such as those in Hokkaido. Successful candidates are highly expected to have basic knowledge on physical oceanography, and basic skills in numerical modeling and data analyses.
9月28日（金）午後2時〜2時50分の間、C202室において、研究院アワー（EESセミナー）を開催いたします。今回の講演者は、本学特任教授として滞在中の米国NASAのStanford B. Hooker博士です。海色・湖色リモートセンシングデータの校正/検証法に関する講演を行って頂きます。皆様のご参加をお待ちしております。
Date and Time: Friday, 28 September 2018, 14:00–14:50
Venue: Room C202
Title: Quality Requirements for Acquiring Optical Data to Support Calibration, Validation, and Research (CVR) Exercises
Speaker: Dr. Stanford. B. Hooker (NASA/ Goddard Space Flight Center)
Chair: Koji Suzuki
Abstract: Above- and in-water observations of the apparent optical properties (AOPs) of water masses are collected to support vicarious calibration, algorithm validation, and basic research — hereafter, calibration, validation, and research (CVR) — exercises for remote sensing missions. Although it is perhaps appealing to imagine these activities can be considered distinct and separate, especially from a legacy perspective (e.g., SeaWiFS and OCTS), there are two significant reasons why CVR activities require the same quality metrics during data acquisition for next-generation missions (e.g., PACE and SGLI): a) the underlying NASA Ocean Optics Protocols are essentially the same and are expected to be strictly adhered to; and b) the data is submitted to databases (e.g., SeaBASS) that do not make a distinction as to the original objectives for acquiring the data. Consequently, all optical data are ultimately applied to all three activities and noncompliance to the quality requirements degrades the capabilities of all future users of the data within the global community of practice. This presentation provides the quantitative lessons established by the author who has personally made more than 13,000 above- and in-water discrete optical measurements in the world ocean, and who has designed and co-developed state-of-the-art instruments, as well as data acquisition and processing software.
Special Grant Program for International Students / Research Assistant Program of Graduate School of Environmental Science (October 2018)
This program will select students, who can likely contribute internationally in their research field, from those students applying to doctoral courses of Graduate School of Environmental Science.
It is very meaningful to participate in research as a Research Assistant (RA) for the development of your research ability. Each Research Assistant must serve to achieve the objective of a research subject directed by a faculty member of the Graduate School of Environmental Science. The research subjects are listed below.
EESセミナーポスター
