Author: admin

  • Professor Roumiana Tsenkova Named Among the World’s Top 2% Scientists for Six Consecutive Years

    Professor Roumiana Tsenkova Named Among the World’s Top 2% Scientists for Six Consecutive Years

    Professor Roumiana Tsenkova of Kobe University, founder of Aquaphotomics, has once again been recognized among the World’s Top 2% Scientists in the 2025 edition of the global ranking compiled by Stanford University researchers and Elsevier B.V.

    The new list, announced in September 2025, marks the sixth consecutive year (2020–2025) that Professor Tsenkova has received this honor—affirming her enduring international influence and leadership in pioneering a new field of science.

    Global Recognition for Pioneering Research

    The World’s Top 2% Scientists ranking analyzes data from Elsevier’s Scopus database. It identifies scientists whose research impact, measured through standardized citation metrics, places them among the top 2% in their respective disciplines worldwide.

    The 2025 edition evaluated more than 100,000 scientists across 22 scientific fields and 174 subfields, highlighting both career-long and single-year research influence.

    Aquaphotomics and Its Global Impact

    Professor Tsenkova is internationally recognized as the founder of Aquaphotomics, a scientific discipline that explores the molecular structure of water as a mirror of biological and chemical systems using spectroscopy. Her pioneering research has redefined how scientists understand water’s functional role in living systems, connecting agriculture, medicine, environmental science, and biotechnology. Through her innovative vision and sustained dedication, Aquaphotomics has become a growing international field, inspiring collaborations and advancing new approaches to understanding water and life.

    Aquaphotomics.com proudly celebrates this remarkable achievement and extends its warmest congratulations to Professor Roumiana Tsenkova for her continuing contributions to scientific innovation and discovery.

    About the Top 2% Scientists List

    The ranking is developed annually by a team led by Professor John P. A. Ioannidis at Stanford University, in collaboration with Elsevier B.V. It provides a publicly available database of the most influential scientists worldwide, based on citation indicators from the Scopus database.

    The dataset is hosted on Mendeley Data, and Professor Tsenkova’s profile can also be viewed on TopSciNet. In the 2025 edition of the list, 89 scientists from Kobe University were recognized among the world’s Top 2 % researchers.

  • “The Voice of Water” – From EXPO2025 Aquaphotomics Day

    “The Voice of Water” – From EXPO2025 Aquaphotomics Day

    We are delighted to introduce a short film beautifully directed by Koji Nishijima, the Japanese filmmaker behind the documentary Pale Blue Dot.

    Created especially for Aquaphotomics Day at EXPO 2025, this poetic work captures the essence of water as the mirror of life — ever-changing, sensing, and connecting all living beings. Through moving images and narration, it invites us to reflect on the message of Aquaphotomics — the science that listens to the “voice of water” through light.

    “Born from water, and returning to water — to live is to renew ourselves every single day.”

    Watch the film below
    (Produced and directed by Koji Nishijima, 2025)

  • “Aquaphotomics Day” featured in Bulgarian News Agency (BTA)

    “Aquaphotomics Day” featured in Bulgarian News Agency (BTA)

    From left: Shogo Shigeoka (Spa Yunosato), Prof. Roumiana Tsenkova (Kobe University), and Kayoko Okusako (Dr. Recella) at the Aquaphotomics Day event, Bulgarian Pavilion, EXPO 2025 Osaka.

    We are very pleased that our event, Aquaphotomics Day” at the Bulgarian Pavilion of EXPO 2025 Osaka, was featured by the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA). The article highlights the scientific and cultural significance of the event and celebrates the contributions of Professor Rumiya Tsenkova, the Bulgarian-born founder of Aquaphotomics at Kobe University.

    For readers’ convenience, we present below the English translation of the original Bulgarian report, preserving its content and tone as faithfully as possible.

    Source: https://www.bta.bg/bg/news/lik/979571-balgarski-uchen-v-tsentara-na-denya-na-akvafotomikata-na-ekspo-2025-v-osaka

    Bulgarian Scientist at the Center of the Aquaphotomics Day at EXPO 2025 Osaka

    On 1 October 2025, at the Bulgarian Pavilion of EXPO 2025 Osaka (which has been open since May), the “Aquaphotomics Day” — a milestone for the emerging science of aquaphotomics — was held. The science, founded by Prof. Rumiana Tsenkova, a Bulgarian scientist based in Japan, investigates the connectedness of water molecules through light and shows how their bonding determines the functionality and properties of water in humans, animals, plants and various solutions.

    The event aligned with the overall theme of the Expo, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives: Cocreation for Sustainability — Connecting Lives”, and attracted considerable interest from Japanese companies, the scientific community and visitors.

    The day began with a screening of the documentary film Pale Blue Dot by Japanese director Koji Nishijima — tracing the role of water from its central place in Shintoism, through the prism of aquaphotomics, to its cosmic significance. The film had also been shown in Bulgaria in September 2024.

    In the afternoon, an international symposium on aquaphotomics was held at the pavilion, where diverse applications of the science — from agriculture and veterinary medicine to human healthcare and industrial technologies — were presented. As part of the hands-on section, visitors could participate in measurements with portable spectrophotometers, and individual “aquagrams” — graphical images reflecting the momentary state of water molecules in the organism — were created from participants’ palms. Two Japanese cosmetics companies demonstrated how these aquagrams can be used to analyse hydration, elasticity and overall skin condition, and to recommend appropriate products.

    The event’s guest of honour was the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Japan, Ms Marieta Arabadzhieva, who also took part in the demonstration measurements. The festive day ended with Bulgarian folk dancing led by enthusiastic Japanese dancers — a symbolic affirmation of the idea of “connectedness” which unites Bulgaria’s participation at EXPO 2025.

  • “Aquaphotomics Day” at EXPO2025 Bulgaria Pavilion

    “Aquaphotomics Day” at EXPO2025 Bulgaria Pavilion

    EXPO2025 OSAKA

    “Aquaphotomics Day” at EXPO2025 Bulgaria Pavilion

    ※日本語版 / Japanese version

    On October 1st, 2025, the Bulgaria Pavilion of EXPO2025 (Osaka, Japan) hosted a special event titled “Aquaphotomics Day.” The event was co-organized by Aquaphotomics Research Field of Kobe University, Spa Yunosato, Dr. Recella, Isol Technica, and the Institute for Life Design.

    The celebration highlighted the deep scientific and cultural connection between Bulgaria and Japan, paying tribute to the founder of Aquaphotomics, Professor Roumiana Tsenkova, a Bulgarian-born scientist from Kobe University.

    Professor Tsenkova has received numerous honors from her hometown of Ruse, including the 2016 Honorary Citizen of Ruse Award and the 2015 Ruse Ambassador Award. Presenting Aquaphotomics at the Bulgaria Pavilion—where art, science, and humanity meet—was a deeply symbolic gesture, uniting two nations through the language of water.

    Welcome to the Bulgaria Pavilion!

    Within the bright interior of the Pavilion, visitors were invited to explore Aquaphotomics through a short movie, a few posters and three interactive booths. Researchers in white lab coats guided participants as they discovered how light and water interact—revealing invisible biological information hidden within water.

    Before exploring the booths, visitors gathered in the Pavilion’s mini theatre to watch a short introductory film about Aquaphotomics produced by the Japanese artist Koji Nishijima.

    The film beautifully introduced the science of Aquaphotomics through visuals of light, water, and nature, showing how water serves as a mirror that reflects and connects all aspects of life—from agriculture and biology to materials science and astronomy. It concluded with the message: “Water connects everything.”

    Hands-On Aquaphotomics Experience

    After the screening, visitors moved to the main exhibition area, where they experienced Aquaphotomics firsthand through three booths operated by researchers from Kobe University and partner companies.

    1. Hand Scanning Booth by Spa Yunosato
      Visitors measured their NIR spectra by the Bulgarian APS spectrophotometer developed especially for Aquaphotomics before and after mild stimuli such as fragrance exposure or light exercise and compared them visualized through the Aquagram®.
    2. Skin Scanning Booth by Dr. Recella
      Participants measured their skin using near-infrared light to visualize their personal Aquagram®, a fingerprint of the water structure in the skin.
    3. Meet the Scientists Booth by Aquaphotomics Lab, Isol Technica, Institute for Life Design
      Attendees spoke directly with researchers to learn how Aquaphotomics reveals the hidden language of water and its potential applications in health, agriculture, and industry.

    The combination of the introductory movie and hands-on experience created a complete learning journey—from conceptual understanding to personal discovery—allowing every visitor to “see their own water.”

    Meanwhile, the Meet the Scientists area offered direct dialogue with Aquaphotomics researchers who explained the scientific principles and applications behind the technology.  The space buzzed with excitement as visitors experienced science not as an abstract concept, but as something deeply connected to their own bodies and senses.

    Cultural Exchange and Shared Experience

    As afternoon sunlight streamed through the Pavilion’s glass walls, the atmosphere turned festive. Guests, researchers, and staff joined hands to perform a Bulgarian national dance, filling the space with laughter, rhythm, and joy.

    Among the dancers were Her Excellency Marieta Arabadjieva, Ambassador of Bulgaria to Japan, and Professor Roumiana Tsenkova, symbolizing unity between Bulgaria and Japan. Their dance embodied the essence of Aquaphotomics itself—connection, resonance, and harmony.

    Following the dance, Ambassador Arabadjieva and Georgi Kostov, Director of the Bulgarian Pavilion, visited the Aquaphotomics booths. Guided by researchers, they experienced live demonstrations of the technology, learning how near-infrared light can reveal the dynamic molecular structure of water. Their enthusiastic participation represented the bridge between nations, science, and people that Aquaphotomics continues to inspire.

    Aquaphotomics Symposium — Science, Innovation, and Connection

    The second half of the event featured the Aquaphotomics Symposium, held in the Pavilion’s conference hall. The session opened with a speech by Ambassador Marieta Arabadjieva, who warmly praised the collaboration between Bulgaria and Japan and emphasized the importance of scientific and cultural exchange. Her message perfectly echoed the spirit of EXPO2025—a celebration of humanity’s creativity and innovation.

    The symposium featured three inspiring presentations:

    • Professor Roumiana Tsenkova (Kobe University): Introduction to Aquaphotomics — Water as a Mirror of Life
    • Mr. Shogo Shigeoka (Spa Yunosato): Industrial Applications of Aquaphotomics in Water and Wellness
    • Dr. Teresa Escrig (AI scientist): What the Water Says? Artificial Intelligence and Aquaphotomics

    Each presentation revealed a different facet of Aquaphotomics—from scientific foundations to practical applications and technological frontiers. Lively discussions with the audience reflected the growing excitement around water as a key to understanding life and health.

    A heartfelt THANK YOU to all organizers, researchers, and supporting members

    Through interactive experiences, cultural exchange, and academic dialogue, “Aquaphotomics Day” introduced Aquaphotomics as a bridge between nations and disciplines—where water becomes a language of life. The event was not only a celebration of 20 years of Aquaphotomics but also a promise to continue exploring the unseen connections that unite water, light, and life.

  • Aquaphotomics Day & Symposium at EXPO 2025

    Aquaphotomics Day & Symposium at EXPO 2025

    On October 1, 2025, the Bulgarian Pavilion at EXPO 2025 will host two special events dedicated to Aquaphotomics.

    Aquaphotomics Day (9:30–12:00)

    Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Aquaphotomics, the science founded by Professor Roumiana Tsenkova of Kobe University. Discover how water molecules act as mirrors of their surroundings, uniting natural sciences from agriculture to medicine, and explore the potential of this rapid, non-destructive, and cost-effective method of research.

    Aquaphotomics Symposium (15:00–17:00)

    Featuring:

    • Prof. Roumiana Tsenkova (Founder of Aquaphotomics, Kobe University)
    • Dr. Teresa Escrig (Founder/CEO, What Matters Academy, USA)
    • Mr. Shogo Shigeoka (Yunosato Aquaphotomics Lab, Japan)

    The symposium will be followed by an opportunity for visitors to experience real-time measurements (16:30–17:00).

    Join us in celebrating the journey of Aquaphotomics and discovering the future of water science at EXPO 2025.

  • The 5th Aquaphotomics International Conference – Conference Report

    The 5th Aquaphotomics International Conference – Conference Report

    The 5th Aquaphotomics International Conference (AIC2025) was successfully held from May 17–20, 2025 at Rokko Hall, Kobe University, with live online streaming. Marking the 20th anniversary of Aquaphotomics, this milestone event brought together scientists, educators, and industry partners from 21 countries to celebrate two decades of progress and to envision the future of this rapidly expanding field.

    Highlights of the Conference

    • Public Lecture, Aquaphotomics School & Workshop (May 17)
      The conference opened with a public lecture by Prof. Roumiana Tsenkova, founder of Aquaphotomics, followed by talks from experts in academia and industry. The Aquaphotomics School offered beginner and advanced sessions, attracting students and young researchers from around the world. At the same time, the Aquaphotomics Workshop, led by Dr. Paolo Renati and Dr. Pierre Madl, featured presentations on Quantum Field Theory, introducing new perspectives on hydrogen bonding in water and coherent domains.
    • Scientific Program (May 18–20)
      Over three days, the conference hosted 46 oral presentations and 15 posters across ten sessions. Research covered a wide spectrum — from agriculture, food, medicine, and cosmetics to pioneering discussions introducing quantum electrodynamics and quantum biology into Aquaphotomics, and vice versa. Aquaphotomics can serve as a new experimental platform in quantum theories, opening new pathways for collaboration.
    • Cultural and Networking Events
      A lively welcome reception and a traditional banquet at Soshuen in Kobe provided opportunities for cultural exchange and scientific networking. The banquet also marked the 20th anniversary of Aquaphotomics, with awards presented for Best Poster and Distinguished Contribution.
    • Sponsors and Support
      Special sponsor sessions highlighted innovative projects from industry leaders including Dr. Recella, Spa Yunosato, Kiyotake Zaimoku Ten, and VIAVI Solutions, showcasing the connection between Aquaphotomics research and real-world applications.

    Looking Ahead

    The conference attracted 257 participants (189 from Japan and 68 from abroad), reflecting the vibrant and growing international Aquaphotomics community. As the field enters its third decade, the 5th International Conference laid the foundation for new paradigms, interdisciplinary collaborations, and innovative applications in science, technology, and society.

    For more information, check out the official website of AIC2025.

  • Updates from the 5th Aquaphotomics International Conference: Speaker Lineup, Workshop, and More!

    Updates from the 5th Aquaphotomics International Conference: Speaker Lineup, Workshop, and More!

    Dear Friends and Colleagues,We hope this message finds you well. We are thrilled to share several important updates with you:

    ■ Speakers

    We are delighted to announce the initial lineup of esteemed speakers for the upcoming 5th Aquaphotomics International Conference, scheduled for May 17–21, 2025, at Rokko Hall, Kobe University, Japan. This conference marks the 20th anniversary of Aquaphotomics and will feature distinguished experts, including:​

    • Prof. Roumiana Tsenkova (Kobe University, Japan)​
    • Prof. Yukihiro Ozaki (Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan)
    • Prof. Giuseppe Vitiello (University of Salerno, Italy)
    • Prof. Jack Tuszyński (University of Alberta, Canada)​
    • Dr. Antonella De Ninno (ENEA, Italy)​
    • Prof. Sylvie Roke (EPFL, Switzerland)​
    • Dr. Anirban Bandyopadhyay (NIMS, Japan)​

    For the full list of speakers, please visit our Speakers Page.

    ■ Advanced Workshop

    In addition to the Aquaphotomics School, we are excited to announce an Advanced Workshop titled “Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) and Field Perspective Applied to Water and Living Systems”, to be held on May 17, 2025, as part of the conference. This workshop will provide participants with an in-depth exploration of the QED framework and its application to understanding water’s role in biological systems. This will be a powerful theoretical lens through which we can further understand the dynamic structure of water—an essential principle at the heart of Aquaphotomics. It’s an excellent opportunity for researchers to deepen their knowledge in this cutting-edge area. For more details, please visit our Workshop Page.​

    ■ AIC2025 Promotional Video

    We are pleased to share our new promotional video that introduces the vision, people, and possibilities of the upcoming Aquaphotomics Conference. In an exclusive interview, Prof. Roumiana Tsenkova, founder of Aquaphotomics, chats with Mr. Shogo Shigeoka, CEO of Yunosato, about what makes AIC2025 so transformative. This concise video is perfect for sharing with colleagues or students interested in the science of water. You can view it here or on our YouTube Channel.​ 

    ■ High School Program (Free!)

    We are launching a High School Program (Free!) aimed at inspiring the next generation of water scientists. This initiative offers Japanese high school students the opportunity to observe and experience the conference firsthand, fostering curiosity and awareness of Aquaphotomics. ​Educators interested in involving their students are encouraged to visit our High School Program Page for more details.

    Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. Let’s continue to explore the wonders of water together. Please contact us at the [email protected] if you have any comments or queries.

    On behalf of the Aquaphotomics International Society,
    Roumiana Tsenkova

  • 2nd Circular of the 5th Aquaphotomics International Conference on May 17 – 21, 2025

    2nd Circular of the 5th Aquaphotomics International Conference on May 17 – 21, 2025

    On Behalf of the Organizing Committee of the 5th Aquaphotomics International Conference

    Welcome to Aquaphotomics

    The role of water molecular systems in nature remains underexplored. With advancements in computer science, measurement technologies and quantum field theory, water research has gained attention across disciplines.

    In 2005, Prof. R. Tsenkova of Kobe University introduced “Aquaphotomics,” a scientific field that studies water’s molecular system through light spectroscopy. By analyzing water spectra under various conditions, Aquaphotomics identifies water as an integrative multidimensional biomarker reflecting the molecular and energy states of systems.

    Since the first Aquaphotomics symposium in 2014, the field has grown through active collaboration, with contributions from experts such as Prof. G. Pollack (University of Washington), Prof. Y. Ozaki (Kwansei Gakuin University), Prof. M. Yasui (Keio University), Prof. Christian Huck (University of Innsbruck) and others. The 5th International Conference celebrates Aquaphotomics’ 20th anniversary, featuring keynote speakers like Prof. S. Roke (EPFL, Swiss), Prof. G. Vitiello (University of Salerno, Italy), Dr. Anirban Bandyopadhyay (NIMS, Japan), Prof. H. Zang (Shandong University, China). Events include an Aquaphotomics School, open lecture, sessions on various scientific fields and awards for best poster and most active Aquaphotomics team.

    Water research is crucial in today’s interdisciplinary landscape, with innovations in measurement devices promising breakthroughs in disease diagnosis, prevention, agriculture and industry applications, wellbeing etc. This conference welcomes contributions from various fields, from biology and medicine to agriculture, chemistry, and space exploration, aiming to advance water molecular system research and its applications.

    This year’s conference is uniquely positioned to provide a comprehensive experience by aligning with the much-anticipated EXPO OSAKA 2025. This strategic scheduling offers our participants the opportunity to not only engage with cutting-edge Aquaphotomics research but also to immerse themselves in a world-class cultural and technological exposition.

    We invite your participation to make this milestone event a success.

    Download the 2nd Circular (English)

    Official Website of AIC2025

    Chairperson of Aquaphotomics International Conference, Founder of Aquaphotomics
    Head of the Aquaphotomics Research Field, Kobe University, Japan
    Prof. Roumiana Tsenkova


    第5回アクアフォトミクス国際会議組織委員会を代表して
    WELCOME TO AQUAPHOTOMICS


    自然界における水の分子システムの役割は、まだ十分に解明されていません。コンピューターサイエ
    ンス、計測技術、量子場理論の進歩に伴い、水の研究は分野を超えて注目を集めています。

    2005 年、神戸大学のツェンコヴァ ルミアナ教授は、光の分光学を通して水の分子システムを研究
    する科学分野「アクアフォトミクス」を発表しました。様々な条件下で水のスペクトルを分析することによ
    り、アクアフォトミクスは、システムの分子およびエネルギー状態を反映する統合的かつ多次元的なバイ
    オマーカーとして水を識別します。

    2014 年の第 1 回アクアフォトミクス・シンポジウム以来、G. Pollack 教授(ワシントン大学)、尾
    崎幸洋名誉教授(関西学院大学)、安井正人教授(慶應義塾大学)、Christian Huck 教
    授(インスブルック大学)などの専門家の貢献により、この分野は活発な共同研究によって発展して
    きました。第 5 回国際学会はアクアフォトミクス 20 周年を記念するもので、S. Roke 教授(EPFL、
    スイス)、G. Vitiello 教授(サレルノ大学、イタリア)、Anirban Bandyopadhyay 博士
    (NIMS、日本)、H. Zang 教授(山東大学、中国)などの基調講演者を迎えます。さらに、ア
    クアフォトミクススクール、市民講座、様々な科学分野研究のセッションに加えて、最優秀ポスター賞
    や最も活発なアクアフォトミクスチームへの表彰など多彩なプログラムが予定されています。
    水の研究は、学際的研究が注目される今日の状況において、極めて重要であり、測定装置の革
    新は、病気の診断、予防、農業や産業への応用、健康促進等において画期的な進歩をもたらすこ
    とが期待されています。本学会では、水分子システム研究とその応用の発展を目指し、生物学、医
    学から農業、化学、宇宙開発まで、様々な分野からの参加を歓迎しています。

    なお、今年の学会は、待望の EXPO OSAKA 2025 の開催に合わせた幅広い経験を提供する
    ユニークな位置づけとなっています。この戦略的なスケジューリングにより、参加者は最先端のアクアフォ
    トミクス研究に触れるだけでなく、世界トップクラスの文化的・技術的な博覧会を体験できるでしょう。
    皆様のご参加をお待ちしております。

    2nd Circular(日本語)をダウンロード

    AIC2025学会公式サイト


    アクアフォトミクス 創設者・学会会長
    神戸大学大学院 アクアフォトミクス分野 特命教授
    ツェンコヴァ ルミアナ

  • Aquaphotomics Open Lecture on November 16, 2024

    Aquaphotomics Open Lecture on November 16, 2024

    The Japan Aquaphotomics Society will hold a ‘Open Lecture’ for the general public on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The lecture will be conducted in Japanese, and anyone interested in water is welcome to attend, with participation available both in-person and online.

    Admission is free, but pre-registration is required. We warmly invite you to join us!

    https://aquaphotomics.com/japanconference/openlecture2024/

    —————————————————————————————
    2024年11月16日(土)10:00~12:00、日本アクアフォトミクス学会より一般市民向けの「市民講座」を開催いたします。この講座は水に興味のある方ならどなたでもご参加いただけ、会場およびオンラインでの参加が可能です。

    参加費は無料ですが、事前登録が必要です。ぜひお気軽にご参加ください。

    https://aquaphotomics.com/japanconference/openlecture2024/

  • The 4th Japanese Aquaphotomics Conference on November 16 & 17, 2024

    The 4th Japanese Aquaphotomics Conference on November 16 & 17, 2024

    {:en}

    The 4th Japan Aquaphotomics Conference” (https://aquaphotomics.com/japanconference), which will be held on November 16-17, 2024, at Kobe University in a hybrid format. Please note that this event will be conducted primarily in Japanese. However, if you are interested in joining online, you may take advantage of Zoom’s automatic translated captions feature to follow the discussions. Below is the detailed information in Japanese for those attending locally.

    このたび、「第4回日本アクアフォトミクス学会」を2024年11月16日(土)・17日(日)の2日間、神戸大学において開催いたします。つきましては皆様にご参加いただきたく、ご案内申し上げます。
    本会議はオンライン参加も可能なハイブリッド形式で行われ、光を用いた水の探究や、水が様々な水溶液および生体システムにおいて果たす多様な役割と機能性に関する幅広いトピックを取り上げます。プログラムには、基調講演、招待講演、一般講演(口頭およびポスター発表)が含まれます。また、特に優れた学生発表には「学生発表賞」を授与いたします。
    ——————————
    登録フォームおよび学会に関するその他の情報は、以下のウェブサイトをご覧ください:
    https://aquaphotomics.com/japanconference

    ご質問やご不明な点がございましたら、お気軽に [email protected] までご連絡ください。
    皆様のご参加を心よりお待ち申し上げております。