By Kyle Young Low

On March 18, Prof. Kozo Watanabe, Miku, and I returned to Miyagi prefecture in Tohoku to collect yet another set of wetland water samples. 

With most of the wintering migratory birds having already moved on, the wetlands felt calmer, quieter… almost like a reset button had been pressed. That being said, this sampling trip serves as a comparative data point to study the ecological impact of wintering birds in a Japanese wetland. Same place, different season, whole new story. So, it's a perfect time to take a second look at the same wetland but without its wintering guests.

​Revisiting the exact same sites from last year, we couldn’t help but notice the striking absence of flocks filling the sky.
Interestingly, the water itself looked much cleaner this time. And with no birds to disturb, I finally got the chance to step right into the wetland to collect the samples. Apparently, ​the water was surprisingly shallow!

Big thanks to Prof. Kozo Watanabe, who jumped right into the sampling with us. Safe to say, his field ecologist instincts are still very much alive and kicking.

Even though most migratory birds had left for their nesting grounds, a few wintering stragglers along with some local residents made an appearance. 

​​Although not in great numbers, there are still some wintering birds left behind.

While on the field, we made a quick lunch break at a local spot. We enjoyed some western-influenced Japanese cuisine (洋食).​ 

After wrapping up the field work, we returned to our collaborator's lab (Sano-sensei's Environmental Water Quality Lab) at Tohoku University and began sample processing in earnest.

Of course, none of these would possibly work without the many people coming together to make this project happen. On behalf of the team, we would like to thank Prof. Sano for his gracious support, Prof. Omura for his subject matter expertise, Dr. Takahashi for his technical know-how on eDNA, and Assoc. Prof. Mohan for the insightful conversations we've shared. 

Interlaboratory programs like this is a great experience for Ph.D students. Let us continue to foster this interlaboratory partnership and perhaps .

09/03/2026

​​ICRL EU-UNPAD Director, Prof. Kozo Watanabe, visited Padjadjaran University (UNPAD) in Bandung City on March 9th 2026. This visit aimed to establish further collaboration between the Faculty of Medicine at UNPAD and Ehime University. One of the agenda items was to finalize the cross-appointment of Dr. Lia Faridah as a researcher at both UNPAD and Ehime University. This visit on the dean's office of the Faculty of Medicine was well received by Dr.med. Muhammad Hasan Bashari, Dr., M.Kes. as the Research, Partnership, and Innovation Manager. Through this meeting, all sides are hoping to expand the coordination between UNPAD and Ehime University. 

Prof. Kozo's visit was continued in UNPAD Graduate School on the afternoon, with him giving a Guest Lecture. This Guest Lecture titled “Ecological Approaches to Mosquito Diseases Control” was attended by UNPAD Graduate students. In this lecture, Prof. Kozo discussed the performed method of mosquito vector controls in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Japan, which has collaborated with Ehime University.

09/03/2026

​Continuing yesterday's visit on UNPAD, Prof. Kozo visit Functional Nanopowder University - Center of Excellence (FiNder U-CoE) Center in UNPAD Jatinangor Campus on March 10th 2026. While there, Prof. Kozo was also accompanied by ICRL EU-UNPAD Coordinator, Dr. Lia Faridah, and staff, M. Akbar Thufail, to have a tour on the facility. The visiting group was received by the head of FiNder U-CoE, Prof. Dr. I Made Joni, M.Sc., and staff, Prof. Dr. Camelia Panatarani, M.Si., to have a brief discussion and introduction. 

​After the discussion, Prof. I Made Joni showed the group around the facility to see the working lab of FiNder U-CoE, such as the top-down processing lab, bottom-up molecular lab, and battery-cell lab. Some of the nanotechnology and services have great potential for collaboration in the future. 

After finishing the discussion with the FiNder U-CoE team, Prof. Kozo continued to the lecture building of UNPAD Faculty of Medicine. Prof. Kozo was invited to give another Guest Lecture to the UNPAD undergraduate medicine students about Ecological Approaches to Mosquito Diseases Control. Prof. Kozo also gave some introductions about ICRL and other collaborations to the audience. 

Three researchers from the Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University — Professor Kozo Watanabe, Professor Tatsuya Kunisue, and Associate Professor Rumi Tanoue — visited Dhaka, Bangladesh from March 1 to 4, 2026 as part of the SATREPS project aimed at reducing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) risks in Dhaka. It is noteworthy that the Record of Discussions (R/D) for the SATREPS project was signed on February 25, 2026, and full project activities are expected to commence in April 2026 for a period of five years.

The team visited Daiki Axis Bangladesh, a company expanding its wastewater treatment business, including septic tank systems, across South Asia. Discussions were held regarding potential collaborative research under this project, and the delegation toured hospital wastewater treatment facilities installed by the company. Given that Daiki Axis is headquartered in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture — the same city as Ehime University — a strong and fruitful partnership is highly anticipated going forward.

At the University of Dhaka, the team toured several facilities where research equipment will be delivered under the SATREPS project to establish the Dhaka Water Environment Research Center. The delegation also paid courtesy visits to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Dhaka and the Head of the Department of Fisheries. In addition, meetings were held with multiple local companies that may serve as potential suppliers of research instruments and consumables for the project.

​Furthermore, the team conducted interviews with prospective candidates who may enroll as doctoral students at Ehime University, and held working meetings with University of Dhaka researchers who will participate in the SATREPS project. The delegation also conducted a field inspection of the Buriganga River, one of the key research sites designated under the project.

Laguna, Philippines – From February 8 to 10, 2026, Prof. Kozo Watanabe and MECOH lab member Jomel Limbago visited the Laguna campus of De La Salle University. During the visit, Prof. Watanabe attended student proposal defenses and participated in research meetings to monitor ongoing projects and explore future partnerships. For Jomel, who was visiting DLSU for the first time, the stay included tours of various laboratories and insect breeding facilities, particularly those focused on mosquitoes. He also assisted in setting up Linux systems and installing the necessary software packages for population genomic analyses, with a focus on reduced-representation sequencing approaches. Key DLSU officials present during discussions included Dr. Divina M. Amalin, Dr. Mary Jane C. Flores, Dr. Isagani Janairo, Dr. Thaddeus Carvajal, Dr. Billy Joel Almarinez, and Dr. Karen Lacerna.

​Iloilo, Philippines – On February 11–12, 2026, Prof. Watanabe and Jomel continued their visit at ISUFST in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo. They were welcomed by senior faculty member Dr. Dennis K. Gomez, who was also Jomel’s undergraduate professor. The MECOH delegation was formally received by University President Dr. Nordy Siason and College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Dean Dr. Rolindo Demo-os. ISUFST hosted a mini-symposium on Aquatic Science, Evolution, and Biodiversity, featuring presentations from both institutions. Prof. Watanabe introduced the MECOH laboratory and discussed the group’s research on antimicrobial resistance, while Jomel presented his work on speciation and adaptation. Following the symposium, the delegation toured ISUFST facilities and learned about the university’s ongoing initiatives to strengthen its research capacity.

​The visit reinforced MECOH’s strong partnership with DLSU and laid a promising foundation for future collaboration with ISUFST. These engagements are expected to foster sustained scientific exchange and joint research initiatives that support the laboratory’s long-term research goals in the Philippines.

​Prof. Kozo Watanabe, Miku, and I took a trip to the Tohoku region to look at some wintering water birds. Between December 2nd and the 7th, together with our Tohoku University counterpart, we've started a new study on the "Impact of transboundary water bird migration on introducing non-native viruses into wetland waters".

​Being a foreigner, I am absolutely clueless when it comes to the major lakes and wetlands found in Japan. Thankfully, I have Prof. Sano and Prof. Omura from Tohoku University to help in that matter, and they've settled on a Ramsar-designated wetland at Kurihara town, Miyagi, called Izu-numa & Uchi-numa lake. The site is only an hour's drive away from the major city center of Sendai city, where we were based. Joining us were the two professors and a master's student, Yasugi.  

Upon arriving, we were greeted by a flock of friendly ducks that aren't camera shy.  Not one to waste a good opportunity, Prof. Kozo took a selfie (the picture featured above) to commemorate the start of a good sampling trip. 

Since the birds move freely along the wetlands, choosing sites with high sightings of these birds is key. After a quick discussion followed by a drive around the site, we have identified five areas and an additional low bird density area from a neighbouring lake: Lake Naga-numa.

​It was reported that about 101,310 wintering birds visited the wetland in December. We certainly felt their presence there. Miku had firsthand experience capturing this natural phenomenon on camera while using a spotting scope. 

Although the birds are the highlight of our trip, equally important are the associated viruses and microbes that these wintering water birds bring. So, we sampled the water wherever the birds went. The work was grueling under the rainy weather, but thankfully, I had great help from Yasugi and Miku. 

Once we got all the samples we needed. We packed our stuff and headed straight back to our collaborator's lab at Tohoku University. There, we've processed the wetland water samples using the equipment and chemicals graciously provided by Prof. Sano's team at Environmental Water Quality Lab and by another long-time collaborator, Dr. Takahashi. 

While processing the water samples at an unfamiliar lab, I felt cold, made worse by the frigid weather and the flu that I had caught a week earlier. 

Yet, the help, generosity, and friendship given by everyone made the sampling trip a resounding success. Research is already tough on its own, and without friends, many things simply could not be done. 

This sentiment was also echoed by Miku. 
​

"In Izunuma and Uchinuma, where I visited for sampling, I observed many bird species. It was challenging to photograph moving birds with a telescope. In the lab, I performed environmental DNA filtration and virus concentration. Carrying 20L of water samples was tough, but with assistance from Tohoku University, I managed to conduct the experiments myself. I believe this experience will be valuable for my future research at Ehime University."

Having gained the ability to access faraway facilities and execute experiments is definitely a positive experience for us. I felt that inter-lab collaboration programs like this are an opportunity that could expand the range of research I could do while building up my network. 

​I am grateful that MEcoH has laid the foundation for collaborations like this and hope that I, too, could one day return the favor by expanding its collaborative range further.  

The event kicked off with a opening speeches by Prof. Kozo, Prof. Guo, and Assoc. Prof. Yasutsugu.

Over the two-day program, about 120 participants attended, featuring 20 oral presentations and 50 poster presentations.  Active discussions on regional challenges and practical solutions, and strengthening international research networks about intersecting topics on human health, the environment, and ecosystems, and promoting sustainable development. 

The plenary talk was delivered by Dr. Jose Isagani B. Janairo from De La Salle University (Philippines), who presented an insightful and cutting-edge talk on predicting chemical activity based on molecular complexity, attracting strong interest from the audience.

Many other researcher too had an opportunity to present their findings.

Whereas the poster sessions were led primarily by students and early-career researchers covering a diverse array of studies such as infectious diseases, environmental pollution, marine ecology, chemical risk assessment, etc. The sessions served as a valuable platform for building future international networks with many young researchers exchanging ideas on analytical methods and field challenges. 

This year's JSPS once again attempted at advancing international collaborative research and strengthening cross-border research networks, either through science communication or a good conversation over a meal. 

CMES will continue to provide opportunities for discussion and collaboration, further reinforcing international and interdisciplinary networks and contributing to sustainable development in South and Southeast Asia.​

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​November 3 – Visit to the University of the Philippines Mindanao

We met up with Von (Research Student), who was conducting research locally, and visited the University of the Philippines Mindanao. 

We toured the Philippine Genome Center Mindanao, and had several discussions about research with the Dean and the Assistant to the Executive Director, and faculty members. 

The laboratories were highly advanced, and I remember feeling excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with a variety of molecular biology experiments.

​We've visited the laboratories, the dean’s office, had lunch with the university staff, and gone sightseeing afterwards. The people at the university were very kind and cheerful. 

​Over traditional Filipino dishes, we discussed Filipino culture and research, enjoying a wonderful time together. In the afternoon, Von guided us on a tour around Davao, where I even tried durian and pomelo for the first time.

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​November 4 – Setting Mosquito Traps and Visiting Zoo Parks
On November 4, we visited the Philippine Eagle Center, Malagos Garden Resort, and Davao Crocodile Park & Zoo to set up mosquito traps.

​While exploring the parks, we saw many adorable animals, which made the process of choosing trap locations both productive and enjoyable.

​It was my first time seeing the assembly and placement of mosquito traps, and I found the process fascinating and learned about how different types of traps and their placement can affect the samples collected.

We ended the day with dinner overlooking Davao’s night view, enjoying a variety of dishes and a memorable evening together.

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​November 5 – Sample Collection (Day 1)
On this day, Dr. Watanabe went to Manila, and the work continued with Irfan, Von, and me. We collected the traps we had set the previous day and observed the mosquito sampling process for the first time. Finding mosquitoes among many other insects proved challenging and required careful attention.

​Afterward, we recharged at the popular local chain Jollibee before continuing our research at the University of the Philippines Mindanao.

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​November 6 – Sample Collection (Day 2) and Laboratory Work
We continued with sample collection and lab work at the university. While the work was demanding, it was very enjoyable to conduct experiments while discussing with everyone.

I also participated in the experiments under Von’s guidance. Although some tasks were challenging due to my limited experience, Von and Irfan’s support made the process very rewarding. This experience made me look forward to conducting experiments in Japan as well.

​After the experiments, we visited a nearby café with university members. Over coffee and cake, we exchanged stories about life in the Philippines and Japan, creating a meaningful cultural exchange.

​Later, we met  Prof. Thaddeus Carvajal at SM Mall for casual dinner. Watching Irfan passionately discuss mosquito research inspired me to study harder so that I can one day discuss research with the same enthusiasm.

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​November 7 – Farewell to Davao and Trip to Manila
On November 7, we said goodbye to Von with a handshake, promising to meet again in Japan.
After arriving in Manila, we reunited with Dr. Watanabe. He suggested we visit the famous San Agustin Church, and Irfan and I had a great time sightseeing and taking photos in front of its beautiful Spanish Baroque architecture.

Reflection
​
During this visit, I experienced Filipino culture, daily life, and, most importantly, the warmth of the people. I am deeply grateful to the locals who kindly spoke to me despite my limited English and taught me the joy of conversation. I would also like to thank Von for guiding me through experiments and showing me the fun side of Davao City. Irfan for always supporting and cheering me up with a smile, and Dr. Watanabe for giving me this rare opportunity and gently guiding my growth.
​
I will use the lessons learned from this trip to improve both my English and research skills, striving to become a capable researcher in the future.

2025年10月19日(日曜日)に今年もCMESの研究室が集まってソフトボール大会が開催され、70名以上の方が参加してくれました！
On Sunday 19 October 2025, the CMES laboratories came together again this year for the annual softball tournament, this time attended by more than 70 people!

天気予報では昼過ぎから雨の予報で開催できるか不安もありましたが、みんなの思いが届いたのか試合終了まで雨は降らず、過ごしやすい気候で試合ができました。
The weather forecast predicted rain from mid-afternoon, so there was some anxiety about whether the event could be held, but everyone's hopes were answered because the sky cleared up, so the game was played in pleasant weather.

今年の結果は…

今年は惜しくも4位という結果にはなりましたが、ホームランが出たり、みんなバットにボールを当てて全速力で走ったりしました！守備でも好プレーがあり、勝つことはできませんでしたがとても良い試合でした。

たくさん応援の声が響き、みんな楽しく最後までプレーできていました⚾

Aaand this year's results...

It was a close fourth place, there were some home runs and everyone did hit the ball on the bat and ran as fast as they could! Although we didn't win, we did play well defensively. Overall, it was a very good game. 

There was a lot of cheering and everyone had fun playing to the end ⚾.

​また来年も力を合わせて楽しみましょう！
Let's join forces and have fun again next year!

​MEcoH continues to advance research on antimicrobials and the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the environment.
This is a pressing global challenge, and tackling it requires collaboration across disciplines and institutions.

​On 17 October, we were honoured to host Professor Ryo Honda from Kanazawa University, one of our key collaborators. During MEcoH’s weekly seminar, he delivered a talk titled “Fate of AMR of Wastewater Origin,” sharing his team’s latest findings and vision for understanding and addressing AMR. As a board member of both the Japan Wastewater Surveillance Association (JWWSA) and the Japan National Council for Promoting Wastewater Surveillance, Professor Honda’s insights were invaluable.

The main event took place on 18 October (Saturday) at the Ehime Medical Association Hall, where the Ehime One Health Research Association hosted a seminar themed “Antimicrobial Resistance.” Four presentations were featured, including one by MEcoH's Kenneth, translated by Professor Kozo, titled “Differences in Co-selection and Localization of Antimicrobial Resistance and Virulence Genes among Acinetobacter Isolates from Patients, Pig Waste, and the Environment.” 

MEcoH remains firmly committed to the One Health approach—working to protect human, animal, and environmental health by preventing the loss of effectiveness of antimicrobial drugs and ultimately saving lives.

This is a problem at a global scale. We simply can't do this alone.  

So, let us pave a way and solve this thing together. Whether in the lab or over a meal.

At the research meeting on the 28th, we discussed research reports, information sharing, and future research policies with Dr. Yasuhiro Takemon (Osaka Metropolitan University), Dr. Sohei Kobayashi (Kyoto University), Dr. Shinji Takahashi (Tohoku University), and Dr. Mikio Kato (Osaka Metropolitan University).

​In the river survey on the 29th, we conducted surveys in the headwaters of the Kibune River in the upper reaches of the Kamo River, the Takano River, and the Kamo River. In the survey, we conducted a comparative survey of benthic animal communities at different points of sediment (gravel bottom and gravel bottom) and measured environmental parameters (water depth, flow velocity, water temperature, etc.).

​Through this research meeting and river survey, we were able to gain a variety of knowledge and experience through exchanges with Dr. Takemon and other professors. We will use what we learned this time to our future research and devote ourselves even more!

Diana Rose Mamawal recently joined MEcoH as a PhD candidate, bringing her research experience in microbial source tracking and antibiotic resistance involving ESBL-producing Escherichia coli. Originally from the Philippines, she holds a Bachelors in Science (BS) Biology from the University of Southeastern Philippines and a Master's in Microbiology from the University of the Philippines Diliman. For her master’s research, Diana focused on identifying sources of microbial eukaryotic contamination in a river system in Metro Manila using metagenomic approach.

Before joining MEcoH, Diana worked as a researcher at the Institute of Biology, University of the Philippines Diliman. There, she was involved in a project using 16S rRNA gene-based metagenomics to trace bacterial contamination in Manila Bay and its surrounding rivers. Currently, she is involved in a project focusing on identifying bacterial indicator species and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) for cross-sectoral comparison. The project aims to assess the spread of ARGs within the Chuyo region of Ehime Prefecture, contributing to a broader understanding of environmental antimicrobial resistance dynamics.

The Molecular Ecology and Health (MECOH) Lab at Ehime University, Japan (PI: Prof. Kozo Watanabe), is accepting applications for a doctoral position in the field of Molecular Ecology in Rivers. The position includes full financial support.

Description of the position:
The successful candidate will conduct field surveys using riverine organisms (macroinvertebrates, bacteria, and fish) and environmental DNA (eDNA). The main focus will be on the bioinformatics analysis of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data, such as metabarcoding, metagenomics, ddRADseq, and transcriptomics, to understand biodiversity (genetic and species diversity) and evolutionary patterns. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to a recently funded project entitled “Optimization of River Habitat Structure Based on Functional Diversity of Aquatic Insect Communities.” The aim of this research is to propose a molecular biological approach to evaluate the various functions of river ecosystems, such as organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling, which have lost habitat diversity (e.g., rapids, pools, backwaters) due to human influence and are no longer able to demonstrate these functions. If the selected candidate contributes to the above-mentioned project, he/she will be able to propose and carry out other research projects, such as NGS-based analysis of fish and bacteria at community and population level, if he/she wishes.
 
Application deadline and start date of the position:

• Application deadline: 30 September, 2025.
• Start date of the position: Between January 2026 – August 2026 (flexible and late start also negotiable)
• This is a re-advertised call for applications, issued after a suitable candidate was not identified in the initial call held between March 18 and April 30, 2025 (https://www.mecohlab.com/news/mecoh-phd-20250318). If you applied for Research Area 1: Molecular Ecology in Rivers during the previous call, please do not reapply. However, applicants to Research Area 2: ARGs in the Water Environment from the earlier call who remain highly interested are welcome to apply. 

 
Eligibility:

• Master's degree in related fields (e.g., biology, environmental science, ecology, bioinformatics) is required before the start date of the said position (not by the time of application).
• Born on April 2, 1992, or later.
• We welcome applicants of all nationalities.

 
Contract details:

• Duration of contract: Maximum of 4 years and 6 months.
• Full financial support (stipend, tuition, and round-trip ticket) is guaranteed by MECOH’s research projects, and can also be complemented by additional support from scholarships from private foundations in Japan.

 
Desired Qualifications (Not all must be met)

• Experience in molecular biological analysis such as DNA extraction and PCR
• Experience in population genetics analysis and phylogenetic analysis
• Experience in field surveys of environmental and ecological systems
• Experience in bioinformatics analysis of genetic data
• Individuals who wish to pursue an international career in academia after completing their PhD (including during the programme)
• Individuals with the ability and strong determination to overcome challenges that may hinder the achievement of self-set goals
• Can work independently
• Excellent English communication skills and can work harmoniously with a multidisciplinary team. 

Application and selection processes:
Applicants are encouraged to send the following files to Prof. Kozo Watanabe by email (watanabe.kozo.mj@ehime-u.ac.jp). ​In the "Subject" field, please write: “MECOH PhD Application”.

1. CV (any format). You can use any format you like, but please be sure to include your photo and your date of birth.
2. An application letter, limited to 3 pages, that explains the applicant’s past research activities and motivation for the PhD project. At the end of your application letter, please include the names, affiliations, and contact details of two references that Professor Watanabe can contact for an online meeting.
3. A PDF of any published papers if the applicant has any reviewed journal publications.
4. Applicants will receive an acknowledgement email from Prof. Watanabe within one week from the application date (not immediate response). If the applicants don't receive any reply, please contact Prof. Watanabe again for your confirmation.
5. Document screening will begin after the deadline.
6. Shortlisted applicants will be requested for online interview (PPT based presentation and QA). Details will be provided via email.
7. Unsuccessful candidates will be notified by Prof Watanabe via email.

If you have any questions regarding the said position, please contact the email address above.

A new Malaysian PhD candidate has arrived at MEcoH! Ahmad Irfan bin Abdul Razak, specializes in entomology, focusing on insect diversity, distribution, systematics, phylogeny, morphometrics, and vector surveillance. Irfan holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Animal Resource Science and Management from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, where his undergraduate research investigated the faunistic composition of parasitic wasps across different habitats in West Sarawak. His master’s thesis examined the systematics and phylogeny of lantern flies in Sabah and Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo.

Previously, he worked with the State Health Department of the Federal Territory of Labuan, where he focused on insects of medical importance, including mosquito surveillance, dengue and malaria risk assessments, and ecological field surveys. He was also involved in monitoring other public health pests such as rodents, flies, termites, and fleas. Currently, Irfan is researching the sustainable control of zoonotic malaria through field and genetic studies on vector mosquitoes in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo.

​On July 28th, 2025, International Collaborative Research Laboratory (ICRL) Ehime University (EU)-University of Padjadjaran (UNPAD) Director, Prof. Kozo Watanabe, visited Gadjah Mada University in Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia. The purpose of the visit is to deepen the years-long relationship between Gadjah Mada University and Ehime University. During the visit, Prof. Kozo was accompanied by UNPAD Satellite ICRL Coordinator, Dr. Lia Faridah, and staff, Muhammad Akbar Thufail, to meet the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University.

​Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, as the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Biology Gadjah Mada University, welcomed the visiting ICRL EU-UNPAD entourage to get acquainted with the facilities in the Faculty of Biology. 

​There are 12 laboratories in the Gadjah Mada University Faculty of Biology; the ICRL EU-UNPAD team had the privilege of visiting the Animal Systematic Laboratory, the Entomology Laboratory, and the newest Integrated Genome Factory (IGF). One of the alumni of Ehime University MECOH Lab, Dr. Atikah Fitria, works in the Entomology Laboratory. 

As the demand for sequencing capability increased, IGF, as a semi-autonomous department, offers sequencing services under the supervision of the Faculty of Biology. The ICRL EU-UNPAD team is hoping to expand collaboration with the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University, given the available resources and workstations may prove useful in the future. ​

Communication is key to idea propagation.

​Prof. Kozo Watanabe, and Dr. Lia Faridah, gave guest lectures at Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, on July 28th, 2025. The guest lecture themed "Mosquito-borne Disease Control: Past and Present" addressed the issue of high morbidity and mortality to high proportion of world population caused by malaria, dengue fever, zika, and chikungunya.   

Prof. Kozo presented past research conducted in the Philippines and Indonesia on Wolbachia observation found in native Aedes mosquitoes. His presentation titled “Wolbachia prevalence in natural populations of Aedes aegypti in Metro Manila and Yogyakarta” showed potential competition between naturally occurring Wolbachia communities towards Wolbachia that are artificially infected in Aedes mosquitoes.  His presentation demonstrated that future mosquito-borne disease mitigation works should consider the antagonistic effects of natural Wolbachia communities on biological vector controls.

Dr. Lia's presentation titled “Development of Sustainable Integrated Vector Management: Study in Cimahi City, West Java, Indonesia” showed a molecular approach to overcome endemic dengue and filariasis cases in Cimahi city. 

​This guest lecture series also included Gadjah Mada University's own Biologist, Dr. Raden Roro Upiek Ngesti Wibawaning Astuti, to give a presentation on Biolarvacide from natural plants in Indonesia through her presentation titled “Evaluation of Eight Traditional Plants for Biolarvacide Against Aedes aegypti”.

The last presenter of this guest lecture series was from the Faculty of Medicine, Gadjah Mada University, Prof. dr. Eggi Arguni, with her presentation titled “Aedes-Borne Arboviral Infection Control: Past and Present” to address the overall effort of mitigating Mosquito-borne viruses in Indonesia. 

​The second day of the ICRL EU-UNPAD team visit to Yogyakarta on July 29th, 2025, the activity started with a visit of the Yogyakarta City Health Department to share information on Mosquito-borne viruses in Indonesia—the Head of Disease Prevention and Control and Health Data and Information Systems Management Division, dr. Lana Uwanah welcomed the team and gave a briefing on mosquito-borne disease mitigation in Yogyakarta City.

​The Health Administrator in Yogyakarta City is also collaborating with Gadjah Mada University in terms of vector control and disease surveillance. Some mosquito-borne diseases that emerge in Yogyakarta City are mainly dengue and filariasis. However, there are also malaria cases detected in the region. But these cases are usually carried to Yogyakarta city through returning visitors or workers from eastern Indonesia.

​After a discussion with the Yogyakarta City Health administrator, the team moved to Gadjah Mada University Technopark (UGM Technopark). This is a complex created to centralize the research center and prototype development of Gadjah Mada University members. One of the facilities is the insectarium under the supervision of the Faculty of Medicine.  

The insectarium was responsible for facilitating the production of Wolbachia-infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are to be later released into a target city. One of the staff said that the facility has the capability to produce ten thousand mosquitoes per week to meet demand for vector control. The insectarium facility also offers services for other companies or government departments for insecticide testing or other vector control.

ICRL EU-UNPAD Team activity on the second day visit to Yogyakarta on July 29th, 2025, was resumed with a collaboration discussion with the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University. Representatives from the Entomology Laboratory Faculty of Biology, Dr. Sukirno and Dr. Hari Purwanto, gave a presentation about the profile of their laboratory. The research fields of the entomology lab largely focused on insect pathology and controls. These research fields have a great opportunity to create collaboration in the future with ICRL EU-UNPAD.

The discussion moved to the Faculty of Medicine building to meet with Prof. dr. Eggi Arguni's team in the Faculty of Medicine, Community Health and Nursing. Prof. dr. Eggi presented their group work on developing mosquito mitigation in Indonesia. Their work also collaborates with the Yogyakarta Health Administrator and the insectarium in UGM Technopark to create and release Wolbachia mosquitoes. The evaluation of Wolbachia mosquito release in the Indonesian region would have to be performed. Process and results of the evaluation could open more collaboration with ICRL EU-UNPAD.   ​

Then, on the last day of the visit to Yogyakarta on July 30th, 2025, the ICRL EU-UNPAD Team, accompanied by a team from the Faculty of Biology, went to the Center for Environmental Health Laboratory (BBLKL) in Salatiga, Central Java. The team was welcomed by the Head of General Administration, Ms. Ferry Jelitawati, to have an introduction and discussion with the team in the laboratory. Representative from BBLKL, Ms. Aryani Pujiyanti, gave an introduction about the work done in BBLKL.  

After the discussion and sharing session, the team was shown the facility in the BBLKL area, such as the mosquito reproduction facility, testing laboratory, and the Disease Vector and Reservoir Museum (DUVER). 

​The visit was closed by a discussion with Dr. Triwibowo Ambar Garjito from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to discuss past vector control performed in every region of Indonesia.

​Mosquito-borne disease control is multidisciplinary and multinational; it is by no means an easy feat to run projects at this scale. By bringing together and maintaining a team of experts,  we here at MEcoH are determined to see that collaboration thrives, knowledge is shared across borders, and innovative, evidence-based solutions are developed and implemented to protect communities worldwide.  

Located just about half an hour drive from Ehime University, Rainbow Highland proved to be a refreshing change of pace from the lab benches and lecture halls.

Everyone was in high spirits as we move to the barbeque site.

On the day of the camp, we are very happy to have our core collaborator, Prof. Karen Judan Cruz and her students from the Central Luzon State University of The Philippines to join us for the fun and games. 

​MEcoH participated in the second CLICKs workshop (CMES Workshop for Launching Interdisciplinary Communication and Knowledge Sharing) on May 23, 2025. This is an initiative to strengthen the internal network of CMES and provide a platform for young researchers to engage in open dialogue and explore potential collaborations. Unlike conventional academic conferences, CLICKs adopted a student-led poster presentation format that allows everyone to present. The workshop fosters an open environment for ideas to exchange across disciplinary boundaries, it even encourage early-stage dialogue and creative exploration! Most MEcoH students took this opportunity to get to know our partner divisions and disciplines. 

Like the first CLICKs workshop, Assoc. Prof. Yasutsugu also chaired this year's workshop.

​In this year's CLICKs, some of us had participated in the "Flash Talk" session, where each presenter gave a one-minute pitch about their research. 

"At the 2nd CLICKS, I was given the opportunity to present my research proposal in a one-minute fast talk, along with my preliminary results on host DNA degradation in Aedes aegypti using 16S and 12S rRNA markers in a poster presentation session. It was a great avenue to share my work with fellow researchers and sensei at the center. I gained valuable insights from their feedback and had the chance to view their posters as well. This experience also inspired me to explore potential collaborations with other divisions to foster interdisciplinary approaches in addressing our research questions."​

Von ​

Since CMES is a diverse community of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. The event venue buzzed with conversations in English, Japanese, and various other languages.

"CLICKs provided a great opportunity to share my opinion with participants from various backgrounds. I think that it will be a better experience if the venue were not separated because most people tended to gather at one of the location over the other. Else, it was great!"

​"I had the opportunity to present my study on dengue virus evolution at CLICKs. At the same time, I learned about what other CMES departments were studying. I think it's a good avenue to not only share our research but also think outside of the box - how we can apply other methods/concepts to our own studies."

​Also, we were part of the 58 participants that presented posters. Notably, some of MEcoH's Japanese students took the opportunity to present and discuss their research in English, contributing to a naturally inclusive space for cross-cultural and interdisciplinary learning.​​

​"At CLICKs, someone commented and advised on my study of Horizontal Gene Transfer. Although it was hard for me to prepare and explain my research poster in English but I gained good experience.  I was also able to broaden my perspective by listening to research in other fields. If I have another opportunity next time, I would like to try to make my presentation in English."

"My research is to use metabarcoding of environmental DNA to elucidate the interactions between populations at multitrophic level. CLICKs has been a good inspiration for me to learn about research in different fields. Thank you for the the good experience."

After the main event had concluded, everyone shared a meal together.

​CLICKs aims to continue as a regularly held event. Through CLICKs, we sincerely hope that more young researchers will continue to build meaningful connections, inspire one another, and find encouragement to take the next step toward a more fulfilling and rewarding research journey. 

See you at the next CLICKs workshop!

Professor Kozo Watanabe and Dr. Kohei Hamamoto attended the Kick-off Meeting held on April 21, 2025, at De La Salle University (DLSU), Laguna Campus. 
​The event, titled “Ensuring Safe Water for Laguna Through Advanced Analytical Technologies,” marked the official launch of the project “Systematic Monitoring Survey of Perfluorinated and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) in Laguna – from Water Source to Distribution End Point, Drinking Water.”
This project is funded under the NEXUS Program, jointly supported by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) of the Philippines.

At the event, esteemed panellists from major institutions and companies—De La Salle University (DLSU), Laguna Water Corporation, and Ehime University (EU)—including Professor Kozo Watanabe, delivered forward-looking and insightful presentations. The meeting was attended by over 40 participants and concluded successfully, setting a strong foundation for the collaborative project ahead.

​Following the symposium, a signing ceremony for the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was held, further solidifying the partnership between Ehime University (EU) and De La Salle University (DLSU). This agreement promises to strengthen collaboration in student exchange and future joint research initiatives. In addition, the EU team visited various research facilities at DLSU, including the International Collaborative Research Laboratory (ICRL). Productive discussions were made regarding the expansion of research capacity and the development of future collaborative projects.

Later that evening, a dinner gathering was held, providing a warm and relaxed atmosphere for all participants. It was a wonderful opportunity for researchers, faculty, and collaborators to deepen ​their friendships, exchange ideas informally, and celebrate the successful start of the project. The evening was filled with engaging conversations, laughter, and a shared sense of excitement for the collaborative journey ahead.

​In the days following the event, Dr. Kohei Hamamoto traveled across central and southern Luzon to conduct field observations and water sampling. These on-site activities laid the groundwork for future research.

The research project titled "Project for Implementing Water Quality Monitoring and Purification Technologies to Mitigate Health Risk for Antimicrobial Resistance in Dhaka Metropolitan Area" has been approved with joint funding from the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Under the Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) framework, this project aims to monitor water quality and introduce purification technologies in the Dhaka Metropolitan Area, and establish the Dhaka Water Environment Research Center (DHWERC). The project runs from April 2026 to March 2031 with a probationary period from May 2025 to March 2026. The project will be implemented by the Department of Environment of Bangladesh, Shizuoka University, Yamagata University, and the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, led by Dhaka University and Ehime University in Japan.

​Both Prof. Kozo Watanabe and I share the role of principal investigator (PI), where I act as his Bangladeshi counterpart. For this visit, both me and Prof. Kozo Watanabe, and with our associate Dr. Bijon K Mitra, were in Bangladesh to officiate the commencement of the project. Several agreements were made with key figures from Dhaka University's research institutions, the Bangladesh government, and a wastewater management company.

First, at Dhaka University, we shared the project proposal. We discussed our future plan for implementing the project with the Honorable Vice Chancellor Prof. Niaz Ahmed Khan of Dhaka University. 

While at Dhaka University, we met with Prof. Dr. Sayema Haque Bidisha, Honorable Pro-Vice Chancellor, Dhaka University, and discussed the establishment of Dhaka Water Environment Monitoring Center. Followed by Prof. M. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury,  Honorable Treasurer, and discussed about Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ehime University, Japan, and Dhaka University, Bangladesh. Additionally, we have engaged with other Dhaka University Institute staff, including the Dean of the Faculty of Biological Sciences and the fisheries department's chairman, Mr. Mohammad Mamun Chowdhury.

For the project, 500 million Yen were allocated to fund the research effort along with the establishment of facilities. To implement this, we approached the Additional Secretary, Economic Relations Division (ERD) and met Md. Abu Sayed, Honorable Additional Secretary, The Wing Chief responsible for America and Japan relations, to discuss the documentation process relating to the Record of Discussion (R/D). We also visited the Department of Environment (DoE) of Bangladesh and met the director, Mr. Mohammed Solaiman Haider, along with his team of scientists from the Dhaka  Laboratory and discussed about project implementation strategy and future collaboration.

Besides reaching out to academic and government officials, we are also open to engagements with the private sector. Mr. Md. Mahbubur Rahman,  Managing Director and Chief Engineer of PureLife (water and wastewater treatment) company at Dhaka joined us to discuss hospital wastewater treatment methods and the possibility of a future collaboration.

During Prof. Kozo's 4-day stay in Dhaka. We presided over a seminar titled ‘Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development’ on 29 April 2025 at the conference room of Nawab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building, Dhaka University. As the chief guest, Honorable Vice Chancellor Prof. Niaz Ahmed Khan inaugurated the event with an opening address encouraging the audience to embrace opportunity and underscoring the importance of competitive awareness in research development. Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of Dhaka University, Professor Dr. Saima Haque Bidisha too gave a speech expressing her gratitude to Japanese institutions for enhancing Dhaka University's research infrastructure. Prof. Kozo explained about logistical details, explaining the SATREPS framework and budget while underscoring the benefits gained from the shared responsibility.​

​Now, the project had gained traction and received coverage from the media. 

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRSeYe4Ap4

Risks associated to multiple antibiotic-resistant bacteria are on the rise. With this project, we hope to lay the groundwork for a water quality monitoring system and wastewater treatment technology with the capacity to mitigate the antimicrobial-resistance problem. In that regard, let us continue to work hard and strengthen our collaborative effort through exchanges in science and culture. ​

By Kyle Young LOW​

I had the honor of participating in the 1st International Joint Meeting of Young Researchers for Future Research Collaboration (The 1st iCollab) held in Ehime, Japan on March 14, 2025. This meeting fostered academic exchange between young (pun not intended) researchers from Ehime University and its overseas partner universities through research presentations. Aiming to build sustainable international research networks.

The event started off with an opening remark from, Prof. Noriaki Mitsuda, head of the Management Information Analysis Office here in Ehime University, followed by two plenary speeches from invited guests, Professor Greg Tabios Pawilen and Professor David Weissbrodt. Although both speakers came from different backgrounds, both emphasized that working collaboratively helped them achieve tangible progress in their respective fields. Dave Robledo, an upcoming PhD graduate, then delivered an inspiring keynote on killer whales.  

Once the plenary session concluded, we moved towards the panel session. As an invited speaker, I got a chance to present my work "Establishing Wastewater Metaviromic Sampling Standards" and shared contacts for potential collaborations. When not speaking, I got to listen, and I am happy to report that the panel session covered wide variety of subjects ranging from deducing physical properties of moon stones to figuring out the relative distance of spaces using of circular objects—a mind enriching experience. 

Once all the speeches had concluded. The event concluded with a networking dinner at Maple where I was glad to have used this opportunity to interact directly with all three invited speakers. These moments are invaluable to my PhD journey and I am thankful for the candid conversations made. At the end, certificates for outstanding presentations were awarded by the organising chair. 

As an international student residing in Japan, I am thankful for the collaborative opportunities that MEcoH gave me. All in all, it's been a rewarding and inspiring experience for me.

Prof. David Weissbrodt from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway was invited to MEcoH on March 13th to establish potential collaboration and networking. Hailing from Switzerland, Prof. Weissbrodt is an environmental chemist, microbiologist, biotechnologist, engineer, and educator with a deep fascination for water environments. Also, he chairs the environmental engineering education specialist group of the International Water Association. This marks his first (and hopefully many more) visit of Prof. Weissbrodt to Ehime University, Japan. Thanks to his current institute's association with past collaborations, like the Kyoto International Forum for Environment and Energy (KIFEE), he is here to strengthen old ties. 

While speaking to a crowd of young researchers, Prof. Weissbrodt'sshared his secret to success, by staying curious and embracing new opportunities!  He highlighted his core research interest of antibiotic resistance, particularly in drinking water, aquaculture, and wastewater systems. Specifically, he and his team are interested in the presence and behavior of antibiotic-resistant genes in various human-related water sources, especially in aquaculture systems and wastewater treatment plants, where antibiotics are commonly detected.

On that very same day, there was a break-out session with the wastewater antimicrobial resistance gene and virome group. The team discussed collaboration opportunities and research gaps. It was a constructive session.

Prof. Weissbrodt emphasizes the importance of improving risk assessments related to antibiotic resistance in environmental systems, particularly in water treatment processes. He advocates for greater focus on studying the release and persistence of resistant genes and microbial elements in the environment, as well as the development of practical solutions to assess risks. 

Collaboration and innovation can lead to meaningful progress. With continued dedication and global cooperation, Prof. Weissbrodt believes that we can develop strategies that solves public health and the environment issues. 

Thank you for visiting! We hope to meet again soon. 

Molecular Ecology and Health (MECOH) Lab of Ehime University, Japan (PI: Prof. Kozo Watanabe; lab URL https://www.mecohlab.com/ ) is advertising for two (2) opening positions of international (non-Japanese) doctoral students with full financial support for the two research areas: 1) Molecular Ecology in Rivers and 2) Antimicrobial Resistance Genes (ARGs) in Water Environment. Applicants need to specify one research area that they want to study on their application letter.
 
Description of the positions:
 
Research Area 1: Molecular Ecology in Rivers
The successful candidate will conduct field surveys using riverine organisms (macroinvertebrates, bacteria, and fish) and environmental DNA (eDNA). The main focus will be on the bioinformatics analysis of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data, such as metabarcoding, metagenomics, ddRADseq, and transcriptomics, to understand biodiversity (genetic and species diversity) and evolutionary patterns. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to a recently funded project entitled “Optimization of River Habitat Structure Based on Functional Diversity of Aquatic Insect Communities.” The aim of this research is to propose a molecular biological approach to evaluate the various functions of river ecosystems, such as organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling, which have lost habitat diversity (e.g., rapids, pools, backwaters) due to human influence and are no longer able to demonstrate these functions. If the selected candidate contributes to the above-mentioned project, he/she will be able to propose and carry out other research projects, such as NGS-based analysis of fish and bacteria at community and population level, if he/she wishes.

Research Area 2: Antimicrobial Resistance Genes (ARGs) in Water Environment
The successful candidate will investigate the emergence and transmission of antibiotic resistance genes across patients, livestock, and water environments (rivers and wastewater treatment plants). The candidate will be required to contribute to a recently funded project titled “Understanding the relationship between antimicrobial-resistant indicator bacteria in water environments and strains from humans and animals through genome analysis.” This research aims to propose indicator species and indicator ARGs suitable for inter-sector comparisons based on the whole genome information of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli and ESKAPE pathogens isolated from the human, animal, and environmental sectors. Additionally, by understanding the localization of ARGs within the chromosomes and plasmids of indicator species, the research will estimate the inter-sector diffusion of gene cassettes that include mobile genetic factors and explore ARGs that co-localize with pathogenic genes of public health concern and their environmental factors. If the selected candidate contributes to the above project, they may propose and execute other research projects, such as bacterial community analysis based on metagenomic analysis, if he/she wishes.
 
Application deadline and start date of the position:

• Application deadline: 30 April 2025 or until all positions are filled - up.
• Start date of the position: Between July 2025 – February 2026 (flexible and late start also negotiable)

 
Eligibility:

1. Only non-Japanese nationals are eligible to apply for this position (Japanese nationals are not eligible).
2. Master's degree in related fields (e.g., biology, environmental science, ecology, microbiology) is required before the start date of the said position (not by the time of application).
3. There is no age limit.

 
Contract details:

• Duration of contract: Maximum of 4 years and 6 months.

• Full financial support (stipend, tuition, and round-trip ticket) is guaranteed by MECOH’s research projects, and can also be complemented by additional support from scholarships from private foundations in Japan.
• The candidate should be able to work independently, with very good or excellent English communication skills, and can work harmoniously with a team of multi-disciplinary field.

 
Application and selection processes:
   Application and selection processes: Applicants are encouraged to send the following files to Prof. Kozo Watanabe by email (watanabe.kozo.mj@ehime-u.ac.jp). ​In the "Subject" field, please write: “MECOH PhD Application”.

1. CV (any format). You can use any format you like, but please be sure to include your photo and your date of birth.
2. An application letter, limited to 3 pages, that explains the applicant’s past research activities and motivation for the PhD project. Applicants need to specify one research area that they want to study on their application letter. At the end of your application letter, please include the names, affiliations, and contact details of two references that Professor Watanabe can contact for an online meeting.
3. A PDF of any published papers if the applicant has any reviewed journal publications.

   
If you have any questions regarding the said position, please contact the email address above.