My research bridges developmental biology, stem cell biology, organoid technology, and bioengineering to investigate how stem cells self-organize into complex tissues. By leveraging insights from these processes, I aim to control and synthesize morphogenesis to develop biomachines and stem cell-derived organs.

To achieve this, I have developed a hydrogel-based platform that enables precise manipulation of the physical and biochemical microenvironments. This platform allows me to model critical developmental processes such as gastrulation, neural tube formation, and notochord development. The hydrogel platform recreates conditions similar to the epiblast during early developmental stages by controlling factors such as stiffness, structure, and degradation rates.

Using micropatterning techniques on hydrogels, I create spatially patterned substrates to guide stem cell behavior. These substrates facilitate studies on cell geometry, boundary conditions, and tissue morphogenesis. Additionally, I localize signaling molecules on the hydrogels through advanced engineering and genetic approaches to establish morphogen gradients. These gradients are essential for directing stem cell fate decisions and replicating in vivo signaling environments.

Integrating spatial and temporal control over mechanical and biochemical signals provides a robust, reproducible system for studying developmental processes.

The 47th Annual Meeting of Japanese Society for Biomaterials 

Invited talk, Up coming

Selected Oral presentation, 2025 ISSCR Zhongmei Chen Yong Award for Scientific Excellence.