Circadian rhythmicity is a fundamental aspect of temporal organization in essentially every cell in the body, and modulates much of physiology, biochemistry, and behavior.  In order to maintain daily cycles, cell-autonomous circadian oscillators drive rhythmic expression of approximately 5-10% of mRNAs to ultimately drive a wide range of rhythmic biological processes. Disruption of the circadian clock can have a severe influence on human health, ranging from psychiatric disorders, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, to certain types of cancer.

We are interested in understanding 1) how the circadian clock regulates the rhythms of thousands of mRNAs and proteins with the correct period, phase, and amplitude; and 2) how circadian clock utilizes rhythmically expressed proteins to regulate rhythmic physiology and behavior.  We use the mouse as an animal model system and integrate diverse approaches – transcriptomics (both bulk and single-cell), bioinformatics, machine learning, molecular/cellular biology, and sometimes mathematical modeling – to answer these questions.

Kojima Lab is Inclusive.

We are all different creatures. Our lab welcomes anybody who is passionate about basic science research, regardless of your sex, gender, religion, ethnicity, country of origin, cultural background, political views, appearances, physical ability or any other characteristics.


What is new?

February 2024

The last chapter of Ben’s dissertation was finally published on PNAS! CHECK IT OUT
Coordination of rhythmic RNA synthesis and degradation orchestrates 24- and 12-h RNA expression patterns in mouse fibroblasts

January 2024

We are also sad to see Juan go…. Juan is starting a Ph.D. journey in the Cortes lab. Good luck Juan! We are looking forward to coming to your defense one day!

January 2024

We are sad to see Doug go back to Hauf lab where he originally came from. Good luck Doug – we know you will do great!

Follow us on Twitter @Kojima_CircaLab for more news!