Microorganisms play an essential role in the circulation of the elements such as carbon, nitrogen and sulfur necessary for the growth of all organisms in nature. In this laboratory, we aim at elucidating varied physiological functions of such microorganisms and properties of their useful products such as enzymes on the levels of molecule, cell and microbial consortium. For the achievement of these objectives, advanced studies and professional education on general microbiology, genetic engineering, enzyme engineering and molecular ecology are carried out by conducting various researches, including "characterization of cellulase and related enzymes responsible for biomass degradation and utilization", "analysis of microbial consortium in extreme environments such as high temperature compost" and "isolation of useful microorganisms from extreme environments".