Our group focuses on theoretical studies of strongly correlated electron systems. Specifically, we are interested in how orbital degrees of freedom influence material properties in addition to the charge and spin degrees of freedom. Many functionalities, such as magnetism, dielectricity, and superconductivity, originate from interactions among electrons or between electrons and the lattice. Orbital degrees of freedom have been recognized as a key factor behind unique material properties and exhibit interesting quantum dynamics. We study quantum phenomena related to features such as the anisotropy of electron clouds, corresponding to orbital degrees of freedom. Major research topics include:

• Quantum spin liquids where any magnetic orders are suppressed by quantum fluctuations
• Excitonic insulators arising from the condensation of excitons (electron-hole pairs)
• The Jahn-Teller effect, which involves coupling between orbital degrees of freedom and lattice vibrations
• Topological quantum phenomena originating from spin-orbit interactions
• Thermal and spin transport phenomena in strongly correlated electron systems
• Spin dynamics and non-equilibrium phenomena in strongly correlated electron systems