Graduate Students
Mohammad Rahat Hossain Heading link
M.S. in Applied Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, 2021
B.Sc. in Applied Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, 2019
My research area covers the selective hydrogenation of 1,3-butadiene on Cu (111) and Pd/Cu(111) surfaces using ‘Reflection Absorption Infrared Spectroscopy’ and ‘Temperature-programmed Desorption’ to characterize the surface species and reaction intermediates and ‘Auger Electron Spectroscopy’ to quantify the surface coverages. We aim for a selective approach to obtain a high yield of the desired product, i.e., butenes.
I go without saying that I love my family and love to spend as much time as I can. I have a strong affection for sports, especially cricket, and cooking. I like to spend my leisure time watching TV series and news, and sometimes sleeping! I also take traveling as an escape plan in vacations.
Ayoyele Ologun Heading link
B.Sc. Chemistry, Adekunle Ajasin University, Nigeria, 2018.
My research is focused on understanding the surface reaction mechanism that underlies the metastable growth of metal borohydrides on ZrB2(0001) surface by utilizing surface science methods such as; Reflection absorption infrared spectroscopy (RAIRS) , X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), temperature-programmed desorption (TPD), and Low energy electron diffraction (LEED). Using these methods, we aim to understand and establish at both atomic and molecular levels the surface chemistry behind this growth and thereby develop an optimal approach towards the thin film growth process via CVD metal borides and metal borohydrides.
Outside the lab, I love meditating on the wonders of nature, baking, cooking new dishes, and staying active through cycling, playing soccer, and table tennis.
Vishwa Wimukthi Hemalal Heading link
BSc in Environmental Science ( 1st Class Honors ), University of Peradeniya , Peradeniya, 2022
My research area mainly aligns with Single Atom Alloys (SAA) and their catalytic properties over hydrogenation reactions. Currently several surface analytical techniques as RAIRS, TPD, AES and LEED are performed in my UHV system, with my group members to investigate and enhance catalytic properties of SAAs.
I spend my leisure time by playing musical instruments, reading books, traveling and playing Cricket.
Cosmic Gober Heading link
B.S. in Chemistry from Trinity College, Hartford, 2018
My research focuses on the novel chemistry of transition metal diboride thin films (HfB2 and ZrB2). The properties of materials are probed by XPS, LEED, RAIRS, and STM under UHV conditions. This work is possible because of the previous work done by my senior lab colleagues Ayoyele and Buddhika.
When I’m not in the lab, I love to recharge by exploring Chicago’s world-class culinary scene, catching up with loved ones, and getting lost in a good anime or manga. Speaking of which, have you ever encountered the epic tale of One Piece?