Isabela Ameglio

“The IRES project was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to engage in groundbreaking nanotechnology research using innovative technology alongside esteemed mentors such as Dr. Hatta, Dr. Li, and Dr. Furuta. Their invaluable feedback and unwavering encouragement inspired us to advance our research and fully embrace this remarkable opportunity. My focus was on generating plasma through DC glow discharge and photoemission-induced discharge, the latter being a novel technique pioneered in Dr. Hatta’s laboratory. This project was a collaborative endeavor that brought together the expertise and support of the entire lab, culminating in a successful presentation at the 2nd Advanced Nanomaterials and Application International Workshop. Beyond the research, the experience allowed us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of Japan, particularly the tranquil community in Kochi, where we resided. The tranquility of Kochi was a soothing contrast to the bustling life of Miami, and while I missed my home, Kochi quickly became a place of deep personal significance. This program transcended the realm of research; it became a memorable chapter in my life. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity and eagerly look forward to the future, hoping to return one day to give back and share the academic and personal growth I have accomplished.”

Simran Narang

“This summer, I had the amazing opportunity to intern at Kochi University of Technology in Japan, where I combined my passion for artificial intelligence with nanotechnology research. Under Professor Chaoyang Li’s guidance, I developed Pookie-san GPT, an AI system that uses historical data to predict experimental outcomes. This project allowed us to optimize the synthesis of zinc oxide nanorods, showing how powerful AI can be in scientific research. In addition to working on Pookie-san, I learned a lot about systems engineering, honed my skills in Chemical Bath Deposition, and presented my research at the 2nd Advanced Nanomaterials and Application International Workshop. This experience was also culturally enriching, from Japanese language classes and traditional crafts to local festivals, which helped me connect with my peers and the community on a deeper level.”

Aaron Font

“My trip to Japan was my first voyage outside of America, and my first trip outside of Florida since I was 2 years old. Even now it feels like a dream which I can see through a beautiful mist- the mountains, the plane landing and taking-off, seeing Tokyo Bay through my half-closed eyes; these are memories I will treasure forever. I did my research on the applications of carbon nanotubes on solar absorption in the context of water heaters. I was able to make use of HFSS software to simulate the effects of waves on the CNTs, and in the end, I was able to present my findings confidently on how multiple CNTs at different angles affected the CNT absorption at my very first conference. I made great friends, saw a Panda for the first time, walked among the steps of the Samurai, and enjoyed great food. Japan was life-changing for me and I enjoyed every moment.”

Aidan Scott-Van Deusen

“The International Research Experience for Students (IRES) program hosted by Kochi University of Technology in Japan was an extraordinary and unique experience. I had the privilege of working directly under Dr. Akimitsu Hatta, a brilliant scientist and the Vice President of the university. My research focused on back-illuminated gold photocathodes and how vacuum pressure affects photoemission current. Before the program, I had limited knowledge in this field, but with the guidance of Dr. Hatta and the students in his lab, I was able to develop a strong understanding of their research. At the end of the program, my cohort and I had the opportunity to present our individual research findings at the 8th International Symposium on Frontier Technology. Aside from research, the IRES program also allowed us to explore Japan’s rich landscapes and experience its culture through activities such as preparing Udon from scratch, traditional paper making, and participating in summer festivals. My time in the beautiful and peaceful Kochi area deepened my appreciation for the Japanese way of life. This program was an amazing opportunity, and I believe that my cohort and I made friends and memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.”

Aaron Landeiro

“During the two months of the IRES project at Kochi University of Technology in Japan, I had the incredible opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research on nanotechnology. Working alongside Dr. Li and her students, I focused on studying the photodegradation effects of zinc oxide nanorods on methylene blue. This experience not only deepened my academic knowledge but also provided valuable insights into the meticulous and innovative research practices prevalent in Japan. Beyond the lab, the professors and students at KUT offered me many cultural experiences that allowed me to fully immerse myself in Japanese culture. A highlight of my time there was stand-up paddleboarding on the pristine Niyodo River. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Li and the Li Lab students for their guidance and support throughout this journey, which made my experience both intellectually rewarding and personally enriching.”