Welcome to the website of the astrophysics research team led by Masao Mori at the University of Tsukuba. Our team advances astrophysics by combining numerical simulations, analytical theory, and observational data analysis. Research topics include galaxy formation and evolution, the role of dark matter in cosmic structure formation, galaxy collisions, supermassive black hole activity, galactic winds, and habitable zones within galaxies.
We specialise in computational astrophysics, developing large-scale simulations and theoretical models to study the complex dynamics of galaxies. Our work integrates closely with observational research, bridging theory and data to build a unified understanding of the universe. We develop high-performance hydrodynamic schemes, massively parallel algorithms, and GPU-accelerated methods, and have recently begun incorporating machine learning to further enhance astrophysical modelling.
We are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of astrophysicists. Our group welcomes both
undergraduate and graduate students, offering opportunities to participate in cutting-edge
research.
At the University of Tsukuba, graduate school entrance examinations are held three times a year:
a recommendation-based exam in July, and general admissions in August and February. We actively
encourage applications from students at other universities as well.
Master’s students focus on building core research skills, while Ph.D. candidates pursue independent research and gain international experience through conference presentations and short-term stays abroad. They also benefit from robust support systems, including the Dual Degree Program, student funding schemes, and JSPS Research Fellowships.
I warmly welcome visitors to my laboratory, and online meetings can also be arranged. If you are interested in joining our team, please do not hesitate to contact me by email.
Masao Mori
“How did the cosmos begin, and how did it become what it is today?” — this fundamental question
has captivated humanity since ancient times. Cosmology and astrophysics seek to answer it
through the lens of physics. George Gamow’s 1948 theory laid the foundation for modern
discussions on the universe’s origin and has guided observational efforts throughout the 20th
and 21st centuries. Today, it is widely accepted that the universe began 13.8 billion years ago
in a hot, dense state—the Big Bang—and that the formation and evolution of celestial structures
in the expanding universe have shaped the cosmos we observe.
Our research group aims to uncover how galaxies have evolved over cosmic time and to explore
their future, grounded in the principles of natural science.
Here we share the latest updates on our research activities, including publications, conference presentations, media coverage, and collaborative projects. We also post about lab events and extracurricular activities that help foster connection and balance within our team.
Below, you will find information about my current team members and graduates.
Below is a list of my recent research papers, selected papers to date, and received research funding.
mmori@ccs.tsukuba.ac.jp
Center for Computational Sciences, University of Tsukuba
Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
+81 (0)29 853 6034