"This is perhaps the best master thesis I have ever seen in the past 30 years at Technion. And it sets a high bar for future students." Huang Xiaohang, the 1st GTIIT joint master's student of chemistry, shone on the stage when presenting his research to the graduation examination committee. His thesis was highly praised by the committee, who unanimously recommended awarding him the master's degree of Science with Magna Cum Laude, which select the top 4% of all the graduates of the year. 

Huang's excellent performance reflects the progress made by GTIIT in graduate education, and also serve as a brilliant testament to the rapidly developing graduate education system of the university.

The miniaturization of electronic devices requires research on the nanoscale structure of semiconductor surfaces. The precious metal silver does not have violent reactions with group IV semiconductor, allowing for the growth of silver nanoscale structures on semiconductor surfaces. "Through studying the formation kinetics of silver on group IV semiconductor, we hope to synthesize new metal nanoscale structures on semiconductor surfaces," explained Xiaohang.

Xiaohang (left)

Xiaohang and his two advisors have written two papers on this research, titled "Isolated and Assembled Silver Aggregates on the Si (001) Surface: The Initial Stage of Film Formation" and "Adsorption and Migration of Silver on Group IV Semiconductor (001) Surfaces by Density Functional Theory", which were published on Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics and Journal of Physical Chemistry C, respectively.

From left to right: Huang Xiaohang, Prof. Alon Hoffman, Associate Professor Huang Kai

Xiaohang's Thesis

"I am happy to see that his dedication finally brings in glory and prosperity," says Huang Kai, who is also Xiaohang's supervisor as an associate professor of chemistry at GTIIT. As a former PhD student of John Polanyi (1986 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry), he currently leads a group of 5 graduate and 5 undergraduate students in studying chemistry at solid surfaces at GTIIT.

Lab members

"During my studies at Technion and GTIIT, I was immersed in a world of advanced instruments in different disciplines. The experience was nothing short of exhilarating as I received hands-on training and conducted experiments on my research topic." Through the dual-supervisor system, Xiaohang had opportunities to interact with top professors and researchers, experience different cultures, and receive world-class education. 

"Associate professor Huang's guidance was invaluable in developing my research thinking. He assisted me in identifying scientific problems and designing experiments to solve them. He was always available to provide specific advice on theories, experimental operations, as well as thesis writing, and also encouraged us to join domestic and international academic events. In daily life, he often communicates with us and helps us relieve stress. Prof. Alon Hoffman's course provided me with a wealth of knowledge and guidance that perfectly complemented my research topic and helped me in writing my master's thesis."

Thesis presented in poster on the CCL

Xiaohang presented on the ACS

Xiaohang has completed his master's degree and is currently pursuing a PhD degree. He is actively engaged in his studies and experimental work, and is planning to participate in an exchange program at the Technion this September.

Text/Photos: Huang Xiaohang, GTIIT News & Public Affairs