3rd Research Exchange Seminar
On July 1, 2025, the Faculty of Bio-environmental Sciences cohosted the 3rd Research Exchange Seminar with Hiyoshi Corporation at the Bioenvironment Building, Kameoka Campus. The event brought together executives and employees from Hiyoshi Corporation, two Indian research interns, and KUAS students, creating a valuable opportunity to broaden international perspectives and foster cross-cultural collaboration.
The seminar began with a keynote address by Prof. Mimura Tetsuro (Vice President and Dean of Bioenvironmental Sciences). This was followed by an introductory presentation from representatives of Hiyoshi Corporation, who highlighted the company’s core values and ongoing environmental projects.
Indian interns Mr. Sundhar Gopu and Ms. Torel Samyuktha S. then delivered engaging presentations about their academic backgrounds, their universities, and their experiences at Hiyoshi Corporation. They also shed light on pressing environmental challenges in India, including solid waste management and seismic anisotropy analysis, offering valuable insights into both scientific and practical approaches.
The program also featured KUAS student research presentations under faculty supervision. Ms. Wang Chu Qian shared her findings on the impacts of microplastics on human health, demonstrating analytical methods to detect microplastics in fish samples from rivers in Kameoka. Ms. Ryoko Manabe presented her work on wet bulb globe temperature index estimation using drone technology, highlighting innovative approaches to climate-related health risk assessment.
In the afternoon, participants engaged in interactive water environmental chemistry experiments, led by Assoc. Prof. Nobue Takasawa and Dr. Mariko Nagano. These hands-on activities allowed students to experience laboratory research first-hand, deepening their understanding of wastewater treatment processes at the microscopic level. Afterwards, Prof. Reiji Suzuki and Dr. Wong Yong Jie guided a tour of the Bio-Environment Building, showcasing its advanced research facilities and cutting-edge equipment.
The day concluded with a networking reception at the Kameoka campus cafeteria. Participants enjoyed meaningful conversations in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, strengthening international connections and reinforcing industry–university collaboration.
Site Visit to Hiyoshi Corporation Headquarters
On September 3, 2025, a group of 11 KUAS students visited the Hiyoshi Corporation Headquarters in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture. The visit offered participants first-hand insights into the company’s operations and reaffirmed Hiyoshi’s position as a leader in environmental science and technology.
During the tour, Hiyoshi staff introduced the company’s state-of-the-art laboratories and explained their work in environmental monitoring, water and wastewater analysis, and advanced testing technologies. Students observed how academic research concepts are translated into industrial applications, particularly in areas such as sustainable water management, chemical analysis, and environmental diagnostics. Cutting-edge methods in PFAS detection and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis were also showcased, providing students with exposure to emerging topics in environmental research.
Through this site visit, students were able to connect their academic studies in standard water quality analysis with real-world applications. They gained practical insights into how advanced instruments such as LC-MS/MS are used in tackling environmental challenges. In particular, the opportunity to tour the Sasabae Agricultural Community Wastewater Treatment Facility provided a rare chance to observe the operation of a full-scale sewage treatment system up close, making the experience both educational and memorable.
The site visit further highlighted Hiyoshi’s commitment to global collaboration and sustainable innovation. Participants actively engaged with researchers and technicians, asking questions and exchanging perspectives, thereby deepening their understanding of how scientific research and industry expertise intersect to address real-world environmental challenges.
Department of Environmental & Bioresource Sciences Bo Yasue Associate Professor
Department of Environmental & Bioresource Sciences Wong Yong Jie Junior Associate Professor