Hokkaido University
Institute of Chemical Reaction
Design and Discovery
Specially Appointed Professor Yuki Ide

Research Themes

Synthesis of Polyketones and Ring-Contracted Porphyrinoids: Advancing Chemical Research via Image-Based Machine Learning

Research Overview

Our research group focuses on cutting-edge molecular design and materials development, integrating structural organic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, computational science, and information science.
We promote the creation, analysis, and implementation of organic molecules from fundamental research to practical applications, centered on three core themes. EYELA products are indispensable to our laboratory, utilized in a wide range of scenarios—from chemical reaction experiments to the essential drying processes of glassware and equipment.

1. Synthesis of Polyketones and Development of Functional Materials
   We are developing novel synthetic methodologies for polyketones—a class of aliphatic polycarbonyl compounds. By constructing highly flexible molecular assemblies based on these polyketones, we aim to create next-generation functional materials with unique stimulus-responsive and self-assembling properties.

2. Synthesis, Reactivity, and Structural Analysis of Calix[3]pyrrole Analogs
   Our research focuses on Calix[3]pyrrole analogs, a class of ring-contracted porphyrinoids. We are developing novel synthetic routes for these compounds while elucidating their unique reactivity driven by electronic and steric environments. By integrating single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and quantum chemical calculations, we conduct detailed evaluations of 3D molecular structures and intermolecular interactions. These insights are applied to precision molecular design aimed at achieving sophisticated
   
3. Development of Applications Leveraging Image-Based Machine Learning Systems
   We are developing analytical systems that integrate Machine Learning (ML) models trained on chemical image data to enable the quantitative prediction and monitoring of chemical reactions and mixing ratios. Our goal is to build user-friendly applications that require no specialized chemistry expertise. This technology has broad potential for diverse applications, including visualizing reaction yields, quantifying trace components, and digitizing sensor responses.

Why We Chose EYELA

At the Institute for Chemical Reaction Design and Discovery (WPI-ICReDD), Hokkaido University, we utilize a “Mix-Lab” system—a collaborative environment where research groups from different fields share equipment and laboratory space.
In this shared environment, we have installed a wide range of EYELA equipment, including rotary evaporators with water baths for solvent removal and glassware drying ovens. We highly value EYELA for two key reasons: the exceptionally intuitive operation of their products, which allows researchers from any background to use them with ease, and their prompt, professional after-sales service.

User Feedback

Even in a diverse research environment with scientists from various disciplines and nationalities, EYELA products contribute significantly to seamless research activities thanks to their simple operation and high durability. Furthermore, we have great confidence in EYELA because of their prompt and professional support; whenever a technical issue arises, they consistently provide rapid and effective solutions and repairs.