Faculty and Researchers
- Keywords Planetary system formation, protoplanetary/debris disks, high-contrast imaging, ALMA, Subaru Telescope
- E-mail misato.fukagawa
Background:Dr. Fukagawa received a Ph.D. for research on the diversity of protoplanetary disks. After positions at Osaka University, the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ), and Nagoya University, was involved in ALMA operations at NAOJ. At the East Asia (EA) ALMA Regional Center, served as Manager and as the EA representative on the ALMA Integrated Science Operations Team. Subsequently served as Head of the EA ALMA Support Center and as the EA representative on the ALMA Management Team. Has held the current position since October 2025 with a concurrent appointment at NAOJ until March 2026.
Selected awards:Astronomical Society of Japan Award for Outstanding Publications in PASJ (22nd), Forbes Japan "Women in Tech 30" (2024)
- Keywords Exoplanets, planetary atmospheres, high-resolution spectroscopy, JWST
- E-mail vignesh.krishnamurthy
- Website
※Appointment scheduled in summer 2026
Students
- Keywords Disk chemical structure, ionization
- Keywords Disk dynamics, gas velocity
Collaborations
Bridging Observations and Theory in Planetary Science
Our group works not only in close collaboration with the planet formation theory group within the Department of Astronomy, but also interacts with the related research groups across other departments in the Graduate School of Science. At Tohoku University, planetary science seminars bring together researchers from astronomy, geophysics, and earth science, providing opportunities for cross-disciplinary discussions on exoplanets, Solar System materials, and planetary interiors and atmospheres.
In addition to interpreting observational data in conjunction with theoretical models and numerical simulations, we draw on insights from Solar System materials and planetary studies, aiming to develop a comprehensive understanding of how planetary systems form, including our own Solar System.
Join our Group
We welcome inquiries from prospective students and postdoctoral researchers. Postdoctoral researchers typically join the group through competitive fellowships (e.g., JSPS) or open recruitment processes. For graduate studies, international students are encouraged to apply through programs such as IGPAS. Prospective applicants are kindly encouraged to review the details of relevant programs and confirm their eligibility before contacting us.