Explaining the phenomena of life at the molecular level in the organisms that form ecosystems The Earth is home to a vast variety of living organisms, which comprise rich ecosystems that exist in harmony with the environment. The Environmental Biology Course conducts research with the goal of understanding how organisms recognize the environment in ecosystems and harmonize their activities using the language of molecules. For example, the course covers research into the mechanisms by which animals recognize and respond to external stimuli such as light, and research into the effects of endocrine disruptors flowing into rivers, lakes, and marshes on fish and other wildlife and the mechanisms by which those effects are carried out. Other projects in which department are enthusiastically involved include research into the mechanisms of plant environmental recognition and plant immunity to pathogenic bacteria, research into the physiological mechanisms of microorganisms and the control of their lifespans, and research into the various physiologically active substances that are created by organisms in the environment. We consider research in areas such as these to provide a basis for maintaining ecosystems that are rich in life into the indefinite future.

Searching for genetic information, the blueprint of life,through gene engineering The current flourishing of biotechnology would have been impossible without the establishment of the revolutionary technologies of gene engineering: cloning, base sequence determination, and gene amplification. The Genomics Course provides thorough instruction in key technologies, from the basics of gene engineering to state-of-the-art knowledge. Its goal is to train hands-on professionals with the "venture spirit" through basic research in areas such as the molecular analysis of plant information transmission systems using gene engineering technologies, immunological research focusing on antibodies, and investigations of the mechanisms by which viral pathogens manifest themselves; research and development of drugs targeting causative molecules by means of the genome and proteome drug discovery method; and applied research into areas such as a super-high-speed DNA amplification method combining gene engineering and nanotechnology, the creation of new virus detection technologies, and its application to DNA-based authentication methods.

The Earth is home to a great variety of animal life. The Department of Animal Bioscience was created in the 2009 academic year with the goal of training students to be able to contribute to humankind, for example by understanding the mechanisms by which animals live, conducting research into health and longevity, elucidating disease, and evaluating the safety of drug discovery and food products. In addition to studying the latest bioscience developments at the most basic genetic, molecular, and cellular levels, students of the Department develop an ability to understand and research animals in a comprehensive and multifaceted manner by learning about subjects such as individual animals' physiology and behavior, pathology, embryo engineering, and bioethics. They also have the opportunity to interact with experimental animals during lab work, and they learn how to properly manage animals from the standpoint of animal protection and welfare. By earning credits in the appropriate subjects, students can also earn certification as a food hygiene manager or food hygiene observer, both of which roles concern the assurance of food safety.