Jun KATAOKA is a Professor at Waseda University's Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, where he leads cutting-edge research at the intersection of high-energy physics, medical imaging, and radiation detection. He serves as Research Director for the JST Strategic Basic Research Programs (ERATO) 'Kataoka Line X-ray Gamma-ray Imaging' project and maintains an active research laboratory (SPXG Laboratory) focused on developing novel imaging technologies. Dr. KATAOKA earned his Doctor of Science from the University of Tokyo, completing his entire academic training in the Department of Physics, Faculty of Science. His educational background spans from undergraduate studies (1991-1995) through doctoral work (1997-2000), establishing a strong foundation in fundamental physics that informs his interdisciplinary research approach. His research program focuses on three interconnected domains: High-energy Astrophysics : Development of compact gamma-ray detectors for small satellite platforms to explore the MeV gamma-ray band, including discoveries of galactic-scale bubbles towering over the Milky Way Medical Physics : Creation of activation imaging techniques for tracking gold nanoparticles in vivo, enabling long-term visualization of drug distribution and pharmacokinetics Radiation Detection Technology : Innovation in Compton cameras, spectral CT systems, and prompt radiation imaging for applications in proton/carbon-ion therapy monitoring and nuclear decommissioning efforts His laboratory has achieved notable breakthroughs including the world's lightest (580g) palm-sized gamma-ray camera and techniques for visualizing cesium distribution using drone-mounted systems. Dr. KATAOKA's scientific contributions have been recognized with Japan's highest research honors, including the 2024 Commendation for Science and Technology from MEXT. His work has received extensive media coverage in outlets including Nikkei Newspaper, AIP, and Quanta Magazine, particularly for demonstrations of 'radioactivation imaging' technology that tracks gold nanoparticles in living organisms. His research has practical applications in cancer therapy, space exploration, and environmental remediation following nuclear incidents. As principal investigator of major research projects including JST ERATO and collaborations with JAXA, Dr. KATAOKA has secured substantial funding for interdisciplinary research. His laboratory serves as a hub connecting physicists, engineers, and medical researchers, with strong partnerships extending to space agencies, medical institutions, and national research organizations both in Japan and internationally. The SPXG Laboratory (http://www.spxg-lab.phys.waseda.ac.jp/) continues to push technological boundaries with recent developments in alpha particle trajectory imaging and multi-modal beam monitoring systems for radiation therapy.
