Technical Support Group

The Technical Support Group is a team of specialists dedicated to the maintenance and operation of the advanced experimental facilities at the Kochi Institute for Core Sample Research (KOCHI). Our mission is to maximize research outcomes by providing high-level technical expertise to researchers.
Furthermore, we serve as a global hub for the curation of marine core samples. We ensure that precious samples collected through the International Ocean Drilling Programme (IODP³) and JAMSTEC/Cooperative research cruises are properly managed and provided to researchers worldwide, thereby supporting the global advancement of marine-earth sciences.

１）Analysis and Technology Development Support

The Technical Support Group provides comprehensive support for the institute’s infrastructure, ranging from the maintenance and operation of sophisticated facilities—such as cleanrooms and various mass spectrometers—to the development, improvement, and safety management of research equipment.
Our strength lies in our specialized technical staff, who are strategically integrated into each research group. By collaborating closely with these groups, we offer direct support for advanced analysis and technical development at the forefront of scientific discovery.
In addition, our accumulated expertise and experience are leveraged to empower and give back to the next generation. We also actively plan and implement outreach programs and training initiatives, such as the J-DESC Core School (co-organized with the Japan Drilling Earth Science Consortium and Kochi University), to contribute to the growth and promotion of drilling earth science.

As one of the world's largest repositories for marine core samples, the Kochi Institute for Core Sample Research manages approximately 150 km of core samples from the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean, collected through IODP³ and preceding international ocean drilling programs.
To prevent degradation, core samples are archived in a controlled environment maintained at 4°C with 80% humidity.
For advanced biomolecular research (e.g., microbes, DNA, and RNA), we also provide specialized ultra-low temperature freezers at -80°C and -160°C for selected samples.
In addition to these international collections, a vast number of piston cores recovered by JAMSTEC research vessels are stored in the reefer. These invaluable scientific assets are open to the global research community and are also made available for educational purposes and museum exhibitions, ensuring that the fruits of our research are shared with society.