Research Activities

We are investigating the role of microbial communities in the biogeochemical cycling of bioactive elements such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and silicon, covering both coastal and open ocean regions. Our research employs a dual approach: field surveys using research vessels and mooring systems, as well as hypothesis-driven experiments in land facilities.
In particular, we focus on settling of marine particles, including "marine snow," which is a key mechanism for transporting materials from the ocean surface to the deep sea. Our research aims to elucidate the dynamics of particles ranging in size from submicron to several millimeters in diameter and to understand the microbial food web dynamics associated with these settling particles in the deep sea.
Additionally, we have been investigating the impact of the tsunami following 2011 Tōhoku earthquake on the material cycling processes in Otsuchi Bay, which is adjacent to our research facility, and the subsequent recovery process.

Literature

https://researchmap.jp/HideFUKUDA?lang=en

Other Activities

Oceanographic Society of Japan
Advisory Group on Marine Environmental Issues, Oceanographic Society of Japan
Coastal Oceanography Research Committee, Oceanographic Society of Japan
Japan Geoscience Union
Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography

Messages to Students

Oceanography is an interdisciplinary field that integrates physics, chemistry, biology, and geology, requiring a broad range of knowledge. However, it is also a field with ample opportunities to leverage expertise from seemingly unrelated disciplines.
A strong passion for contributing to the advancement of fundamental ocean sciences is essential. However, even if you plan to acquire basic knowledge of oceanography after admission, we welcome those who value their prior academic specialization.