Our methods integrate multiple techniques from a number of fields, such as stratigraphy, sedimentology, paleoceanography, paleoclimatology, geochronology, etc., to better understand the Earth's history. We combine field work and laboratory analyses with data science, which is strongly emphasized in order to clarify and understand the uncertainty in our measurements. This informs interpretation of our results and improves our confidence in conclusions.
Our research group works closely with the University of Tokyo, Atmosphere and Ocean Science Research Institute, which opens many opportunities for Akita University students to use state of the art facilities at both Akita University and the University of Tokyo. In particular, we collaborate closely with Professor Yusuke Yokoyama of the Analytical Center for Environmental Research, whose lab equipment includes a single-stage accelerator mass spectrometer for radiocarbon dating and an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). The ICP-MS is coupled to a laser ablation device that Akita University students from this lab use for research.