On dancers, friends and models

Electrons are great dancers, and my research essentially aims to apply music to them, giving them a stage, and reporting to the world about how they dance. The music we apply is electromagnetic, and the stage is set on 2D materials. I will focus on graphene, whose drunk and sober dances are very distinguishable. Counterintuitively, during their dance, they can also transform themselves and become a whole other kind of particle. Fortunately, this dance is not only fun to witness but also holds promising applications that can drastically change our future. Come witness the dance of electrons, and maybe you and I can mimic their
moves in the end.

Let's have a look at the hidden world beneath our feet, where plant roots form partnerships with soil microbes. Some boost growth, while others present challenges. Yet, certain microbes join forces with plant roots, offering shelter and mutual benefits. Consider the classic example of biological nitrogen fixation, seen vividly in legume plants like peas. Within their roots, microbes create nodules, where they harness atmospheric nitrogen, converting it into a form usable by plants. Explore with me these essential partnerships shaping plant vitality.

Ever wondered about the mannequins in shop windows or the dummies in first aid classes? They're essentially models, helping us visualize ideas, practice skills, and assess risks before real-world application. Similarly, scientists rely on models in their research endeavors, particularly when tackling complex systems. In this talk, we delve into the realm of model organisms used by scientists to experiment, innovate, and understand biology better. Join us as we explore the diverse array of model organisms, understand how they're chosen, and explore why they're essential for scientific progress.