My name is Chenchen Liu, and I joined the Graduate School and Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Kyoto University as a cross-appointment Assistant Professor on April 1, 2026.
Originally from China, I came to Japan in 2018 to conduct research on analytical materials for biomolecular detection in Professor Koji Otsuka’s laboratory. I received my Ph.D. from the Department of Material Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, in 2021. I then moved to Kyushu University as a Project Assistant Professor, where I focused on developing methods to improve the sensitivity of glycan analysis. I have since joined Professor Hiroshi Tsugawa’s group at Kyoto University, where I am currently engaged in research in omics informatics toward a deeper understanding of biological systems.
My research primarily centers on capillary electrophoresis as a platform for molecular separation and analysis. Advances in pharmaceutical science, medicine, biology, and environmental science all rely on robust analytical techniques at the molecular level. Capillary electrophoresis is a highly efficient and versatile method applicable to a wide range of molecular systems, offering strong potential for further development and broad applications. By controlling the migration behavior of charged molecules or particles in solution, this technique enables the amplification of subtle differences in migration time and space, allowing precise separation and identification of components in complex samples. It plays an essential role in the analysis of biomolecules such as DNA, proteins, and glycans. The underlying principles integrate multiple disciplines, including physics, chemistry, informatics, and electronic engineering, and show strong compatibility with emerging fields such as advanced materials, micro- and nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence. In particular, through pursuing research aimed at pushing beyond the performance limits of capillary electrophoresis, I have come to deeply appreciate both the profound depth of the natural sciences and the intrinsic intellectual appeal of scientific research itself.
Beyond my research activities, I have also maintained a strong interest in observing and reflecting on human society. In recent years, I have come to believe that the pursuit of self-actualization provides a powerful and sustainable internal motivation. Looking ahead, I am excited to further explore the field of omics informatics, which represents both a new challenge and an opportunity for personal and professional growth. At the same time, I hope to contribute to education by sharing my experiences and perspectives, supporting students in their development, and contributing to the advancement of our research community.
I look forward to working together with colleagues and students, and to growing through collaboration and mutual learning.