What Will You Learn in Yamamoto Lab?
Students in the Yamamoto Lab develop a broad and transferable skill set grounded in real experimental research. The projects in this lab span biomaterials, analytical chemistry, molecular characterization, and biomedical applications, giving students exposure to multiple scientific domains.
Students learn how to design experiments from first principles—starting with a scientific question, selecting appropriate controls, optimizing protocols, and iterating based on results. Projects involve hands-on synthesis, enzymatic reactions, sample preparation, and time-sensitive experimental workflows that require careful planning and execution.
A major focus of the lab is interpreting complex data rather than simply collecting it. Students learn to analyze chromatograms, spectra, calibration curves, and quantitative trends, and to evaluate sources of variability, error, and heterogeneity in real experimental systems.
Students gain direct experience with advanced analytical techniques, including LC-MS, HPLC, FTIR, NMR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and microscopy. Many projects involve comparing multiple characterization methods to validate results and draw meaningful conclusions about material structure and function.
A major focus of the lab is interpreting complex data rather than simply collecting it. Students learn to analyze chromatograms, spectra, calibration curves, and quantitative trends, and to evaluate sources of variability, error, and heterogeneity in real experimental systems.
Because experiments involve sensitive biological and chemical systems, students develop strong habits around documentation, reproducibility, time management, and accountability. The lab environment mirrors a professional research setting, preparing students for future work in academic, industrial, or clinical research.
Current Projects/Skills in Each
GelMA Team
This team focuses on photocurable hydrogel systems used in biomaterials research. Work involves synthesis workflows and downstream protein-level analysis. Emphasis is placed on material behavior and analytical validation.
Key Skills: Photocuring Hydrogel Synthesis, Peptide Mapping, Protein Analysis LC/MS
Analytical Team
The analytical team applies mass spectrometry techniques to biological samples. Efforts include bioanalysis and refinement of experimental methods. The work supports multiple tissue-based research projects.
Key Skills: LC-MS/MS Bioanalysis of The Tissue, Method Development
Drug Delivery Team
This team develops hydrogel-based platforms for controlled delivery applications. Projects involve carrier design, characterization, and imaging-based evaluation. The focus is on performance in biologically relevant systems.
Key Skills: Synthesis of Drug Delivery Carrier and The Characterization, Live Imaging Analysis
Wound Dressing Gel Team
Research centers on multifunctional adhesive hydrogel materials. The team explores material properties relevant to wound environments. Projects emphasize functionality, stability, and application-driven design.
Key Skills: Synthesizing a Multi functionalized sticky hydrogel
GMHA Team
The GMHA team works with photocurable hyaluronic acid biomaterials. Research includes synthesis and material characterization. Applications are explored within broader tissue and regenerative contexts.
Key Skills: photocuring hyaluronic acid synthesis and LCMS characterization