Ippei Obayashi is a Professor at Okayama University's Center for artificial intelligence and mathematical data science, with a visiting professorship at Tohoku University's Advanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR). His academic career spans prestigious institutions including RIKEN, Tohoku University, and Kyoto University, where he earned his Doctor of Science degree. Okayama University, Center for AI and Mathematical Data Science, Professor (2021-present) RIKEN, Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, Researcher (2018-2021) Tohoku University, Institute for Advanced Materials Science, Associate Professor (2018) Tohoku University, Advanced Institute for Materials Science, Assistant Professor (2015-2018) Kyoto University, Research Fellow (2010-2015) Educational Background: Kyoto University, Graduate School of Science, Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Analysis (2006-2010, Doctoral) Kyoto University, Graduate School of Science, Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Analysis (2004-2006, Master's) Kyoto University, Faculty of Science (2000-2004, Bachelor's) Professor Obayashi's research focuses on topological data analysis (TDA) , particularly persistent homology and its applications, alongside dynamical systems theory. His work bridges pure mathematics with practical applications in materials science, where he has developed innovative methods to analyze complex material structures. He has made significant contributions to understanding magnetic materials, amorphous structures, and crystal formation through topological approaches, often integrating machine learning techniques with traditional mathematical analysis. His research has practical implications for energy materials, battery technology, and materials characterization. His publication record demonstrates a strong trend toward applying topological methods to solve real-world materials science problems, with increasing integration of machine learning techniques. Recent work shows sophisticated applications of persistent homology to analyze neutron scattering data, magnetic properties, and structural characteristics of materials, reflecting his ability to translate abstract mathematical concepts into practical analytical tools. Scientific Awards: JCS-JAPAN Excellent Paper Award, Ceramic Society of Japan (2020) 11th Sakuramai Research Encouragement Award, RIKEN (2020) Japan Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics Best Author and Best Paper Awards (2017) 6th Fujiwara Hiroshi Mathematical Sciences Encouragement Award (2017) AIMR International Symposium Best Poster Award (2017) Professor Obayashi actively mentors graduate students through Okayama University's Graduate Student Program and leads research initiatives including the Japan Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics Topological Data Analysis Research Group, which he chairs. His research is supported by multiple competitive grants, including Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) funding for projects on mathematical data science and topological structure analysis. He collaborates extensively with researchers across disciplines, particularly in materials science and engineering. He is affiliated with the Center for artificial intelligence and mathematical data science (Angels) and the Cyber-Physical Engineering Informatics Research Division (Cypher) at Okayama University, where he leads efforts to develop and apply topological data analysis methods to complex scientific problems. His laboratory focuses on creating practical software tools like HomCloud for persistent homology analysis, bridging the gap between theoretical mathematics and applied scientific research.