My name is Erika Yamashita, and I was appointed Cross-appointed Assistant Professor at the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, effective May 1, 2026. I graduated from the School of Science at Osaka University (Sekiguchi Laboratory) and received my Ph.D. from the Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences at Osaka University (Ishii Laboratory) in 2020. Since then, I have conducted research and mentored students at Osaka University and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
My research aims to understand how cells dynamically change their behavior, interact with surrounding cells, and perform their functions within the complex microenvironment of the bone marrow. To address these questions, I use intravital imaging techniques based on multiphoton excitation microscopy. Using this imaging approach, I have investigated the real-time dynamics and biological roles of bone metabolism and immune responses in the bone marrow. In living organisms, cells continuously alter their behavior in response to their environment and neighboring cells. Real-time imaging reveals that even cells of the same type display distinct patterns of movement and interaction depending on their local microenvironment. I find intravital imaging particularly fascinating because it allows us to directly observe cells contacting, cooperating with, and sometimes competing against one another in real time. I believe this approach is essential for uncovering the mechanisms underlying complex biological phenomena.
Recently, I have focused on osteoclasts while studying intercellular interactions within the bone marrow. Moving forward, I aim to visualize the intercellular crosstalk induced by interactions with osteoclasts in the living bone marrow environment. Through this work, I hope to deepen our understanding of bone metabolism and tumor immunity and ultimately contribute to new insights into bone diseases and cancer metastasis.
Drawing on the research experience I have gained in both Japan and the United States, I look forward to collaborating with colleagues at Kyoto University to advance our understanding of biological systems. In addition, based on my experience in student mentorship and Faculty Development (FD) activities, I am committed to fostering an environment in which students can think independently and actively engage in their research. I sincerely look forward to conducting research and exchanging ideas with many colleagues at Kyoto University. I greatly appreciate your support, guidance, and collaboration.