Tomohiko Inomata

Tomohiko Inomata is a Professor at Nagoya Institute of Technology, specifically in the Division of Life and Material Chemistry within the Department of Life and Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering. His research spans multiple interdisciplinary fields at the intersection of chemistry, materials science, and biochemistry, with a particular focus on nanotechnology applications.

Dr. Inomata received his Doctor of Science degree from Hokkaido University in 2000, following completion of both his Master's Course (1997) and Doctor's Course at the Graduate School of Natural Science, Hokkaido University. He completed his undergraduate studies at Hokkaido University's Faculty of Science, graduating in 1995.

Professor Inomata's research interests primarily focus on nanotechnology and materials science, with specific expertise in biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, and coordination chemistry. His work centers on the development of functional materials and devices, particularly those involving ionic liquid-modified substrates, artificial siderophores, and metal complexes. He has pioneered research in microbial detection technologies using artificial siderophore-FeIII complex-modified substrates, as well as the development of high-efficiency catalyst materials and sensing devices for volatile organic compounds. His research has significant implications for environmental monitoring, healthcare diagnostics, and renewable energy technologies.

Analysis of Professor Inomata's recent publications reveals a strong focus on interdisciplinary research at the chemistry-materials-biology interface. His work demonstrates consistent innovation in developing novel metal complexes for catalytic applications, particularly involving iron and nickel complexes. A significant portion of his research involves the application of ionic liquids to modify electrode surfaces for improved performance in energy conversion devices like dye-sensitized solar cells and CO2 reduction systems. Another major theme is the development of artificial siderophores for microbial detection and fuel cell applications, showcasing his ability to bridge fundamental chemical research with practical technological solutions.

• 9th Wakasyachi Prize (2015) from Aichi Prefecture, Science and Technology Exchange Foundation, and Hibi Science and Technology Promotion Foundation

Professor Inomata has successfully secured numerous research grants, including multiple Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Japanese government. His current projects include 'Development of Microbe Fuel Cell using artificial siderophores' (2019-present) and 'Surface Spectroscopic Analysis of Fundamental Factors that Promote Catalytic Reactions by Ionic Liquid-Modified Electrodes' (2021-2024). He also leads the Aichi Prefecture 'Knowledge Hub Aichi Key Research Project IV' focused on developing E. coli detection technology and devices using artificial siderophore technology (2022-2025). His research team collaborates extensively with industry partners including DENSO Corporation and Tsuzuya Corporation, demonstrating the practical applications of his fundamental research.

Professor Inomata's laboratory focuses on the development of functional electrodes using ionic liquid-modified substrates, artificial siderophore technologies for microbial detection, and novel catalyst materials. His team works at the intersection of inorganic chemistry, materials science, and biochemistry, creating innovative solutions for energy conversion, environmental monitoring, and healthcare applications. Current projects include the development of rapid and highly sensitive microbial detection technology using artificial 'bait' modified substrates, as well as high-functionality electrodes for microbial fuel cells.