We are interested in things that are colorful, such as cyanobacteria, algae, various pigments, and proteins with beautiful colors!
Our research focuses on the diversity, mechanisms, and applications of cyanobacteria in the environment, particularly how cyanobacteria utilize far-red light for photosynthesis. We are also deeply interested in the evolution of primitive cyanobacteria and their unique physiological and biochemical conditions.
Research about cyanobacteria receive more and more attention in recent years. Cyanobacteria are model organisms not only for studying photosynthesis but also for industrial applications. Some cyanobacteria are rich in nutrients for diet. In addition, valuable food additives and drugs can be isolated from some of them. By using genetic engineering, we can use cyanobacteria to produce many kinds of useful chemicals. Cyanobacteria perform photosynthesis in fixing carbon from the environment; therefore using cyanobacteria in industrial production is more friendly to the environment than other microbes.
Far-red light (FRL, wavelength = 700-800 nm) is important energy from the sunlight. However, few organisms can harvest FRL for oxygenic photosynthesis. The cyanobacteria studied in Ho Lab are one of them. The goal for Ho Lab is to elucidate the mechanism of using FRL for photosynthesis. We hope one day we can transfer this system to plants, expanding their light spectrum and increasing yield.
Our laboratory warmly welcomes students and researchers from diverse backgrounds. Regardless of age, birthplace, gender and gender identity, beliefs, or any personal traits, everyone is treated equally and with respect in our lab.
In our research, we maintain an open-minded approach to scientific questions and are committed to exploring and answering them through experiments. We encourage active participation in laboratory affairs and discussions. Our lab adopts a goal-oriented mentoring approach, emphasizing efficient scientific communication and focused work during core hours, without micromanagement.
Therefore, we expect our members to have a strong motivation to proactively advance their research, along with good time management skills. We also value the ability to maintain a healthy work–life balance while pursuing research, as well as having a clear plan for one’s academic and career development. Through this environment, we aim to achieve a deeper and broader understanding of cyanobacteria, photosynthesis, and their applications and ecological roles.