I was in Shanghai as a faculty for some years before coming to Okinawa. This not-too-short period, with the entire pandemic time included, made me totally convinced that both human life and society are complex enough and hugely vary from one country to another, and so individual mindsets and attitudes towards them need to be very well-organized and well-maintained. Being in Okinawa, OIST in particular, I am thankfully feeling that I can focus on what I have realized I do care most - my family and (certain sub-disciplines of) science - meanwhile optimistically hoping that my contribution will be beneficial in some way or other to someone else.
Members
Tokuro Shimokawa
Staff Scientist
After I got my PhD at the University of Hyogo, I worked as a postdoc at the Kobe (2012-2013) and Osaka (2013-2017) Universities, Japan. I've been interested in the novel magnetic states observed in frustrated spin systems, especially now, I'm studying on spin liquid and multiple-q states by means of some numerical techniques. I'm really happy to be able to study physics with many wonderful, respectable researchers. In my spare time, not only physics, I will enjoy playing tennis, diving and drinking with my friends, coworkers and family in this beautiful island.
Weslei Bernardino Fontana
I got my PhD from Universidade Estadual de Londrina in Brazil, during which I also spent a bit more than a year in Boston, working in the group of Claudio Chamon. That's where I developed an interest in fractons and some exotic quantum field theory subjects. After that, I went on to postdoc positions at the International Institute of Physics in Natal/Brazil and at National Tsing Hua University in Hsinchu/Taiwan. Most of my research gravitates toward spin systems (with a bias toward topological and fracton order), with some emphasis on effective field theory descriptions of these systems. Apart from research, I enjoy cooking (as a Brazilian, I have a weak spot for barbecues), hiking, and spending time with family and friends. Now in Okinawa, I hope to not only enjoy the work within the group but also take some time to enjoy what this small piece of heaven has to offer (and possibly learn some Japanese... hopefully).
Markus Drescher
Postdoctoral Scholar
I am interested in strongly interacting quantum systems, in particular, two-dimensional frustrated spin models such as the triangular-lattice Heisenberg antiferromagnet. Employing large-scale tensor-network simulations with computational speed-ups on clusters of graphics processing units, my research focuses on understanding the dynamics of quantum magnets that can host novel phases, such as quantum spin liquids.
Besides theoretical physics, I am passionate about literature and music. Over the last decade and beyond, I have played the alto and soprano saxophone in various symphonic wind orchestras, most recently in Munich.
Marina Razzhivina
PhD Student
I did my second rotation in this lab and enjoyed the friendly scientific atmosphere, which led me to join the group. During my rotation, I worked on applying the SCGA method to the Heisenberg model on the Kagome lattice, which was a great learning experience.
I'm interested in the properties of materials, particularly frustrated magnetic systems and exotic phases such as quantum spin liquids. I enjoy tackling analytical problems inspired by experimental data. Also, I'm interested in learning classical and semi-classical Monte Carlo methods.
Outside of research, I love creating science visualizations - whether it's animations in Python or Blender. My favorite YouTube channel is 3Blue1Brown.
Ananya Samanta
PhD Student
I received my master's degree in Physics from IISER Bhopal, India. Afterwards, I got a chance to do PhD in TQM unit at OIST. My primary interest lies on Quantum Mechanics, Condensed Matter Physics, Statistical Physics and Numerical Methods. To be specific, I am excited about understanding how frustration can give rise to novel and rich phenomena like spin liquids. So, it is a great opportunity to be a part of TQM unit and being able to learn physics of unconventional matters in "Frustrated Magnetism". Apart from pursuing physics, I love sports, dancing, cooking and spending time with family and close ones.
Tiago Pernambuco Toledo de Macedo
Rotation student
I come from Natal, Brazil, where I got my Bachelor's Degree in Physics, and I'm currently doing my first rotation in the Theory of Quantum Matter Unit. My background is a mix of Quantum Information Theory and Quantum Many-Body Physics, with some Hydrodynamics sprinkled in between. I'm currently interested in applying concepts and methods from Quantum Information and Quantum Thermodynamics to Condensed Matter systems. As for my personal interests, I've always been a big fan of literature in general, and since arriving in Okinawa I've been getting into Haiku.
Yusaku Hattori
Research Intern
(From October 2025)
I am an undergraduate student at the University of Tokyo and currently a research intern in the TQM Unit. I am really fascinated by the rich world of quantum many-body physics and its interplay with quantum information theory. I am currently working on the random-bond XXZ model––a simple yet deep model––and the multipartite entanglement structure of its ground state. The atmosphere at OIST and life in Okinawa suit me very well––the beautiful surrounding ocean always refreshes me. I am eager to explore more of Okinawa's nature, food, and sake! I am truly grateful to everyone who has supported me and made this opportunity possible.
Shino Takagi
Research Unit Administrator
My responsibilities include offering administrative assistance to facilitate the progress of research within the group. Since becoming part of OIST, I have had the pleasure of collaborating with outstanding individuals from around the world. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and experiencing different cultures, which often inspires my work and broadens my perspectives.
