Nanoscale Horizons Emerging Investigator Series: Professor Chunlan Wang, Xi’an Polytechnic University, China

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Abstract

Our Emerging Investigator Series features exceptional work by early-career nanoscience and nanotechnology researchers. Read Chunlan Wang’s Emerging Investigator Series article ‘A multifunctional terahertz device based on vanadium dioxide metamaterials that switches between ultra-broadband absorption and ultra-high-Q narrowband absorption’ (https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00320B) and read more about her in the interview below.

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Chunlan Wang is currently a professor at Xi’an Polytechnic University in China. She received her doctoral degree in Condensed Matter Physics from Wuhan University (2015). She is one of the Fifth Batch of “Young Talents Support Program” for Universities in Shaanxi Province, part of the Experts of the Science and Technology Think Tank of Xi’an Science and Technology Association (First Batch), and one of the Ministry of Education’s “Young Backbone Teachers of Central and Western Universities for Domestic Visiting Scholars”.

Read Chunlan Wang’s Emerging Investigator Series article ‘A multifunctional terahertz device based on vanadium dioxide metamaterials that switches between ultra-broadband absorption and ultra-high-Q narrowband absorption’ (https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00320B) and read more about her in the interview below:

NH: Your recent Nanoscale Horizons communication describes a multifunctional terahertz device based on vanadium dioxide metamaterials that switches between ultra-broadband absorption and ultra-high-Q narrowband absorption. How has your research evolved from your first article to this most recent article and where do you see your research going in future?

CW: Initially, a single-layer hybrid structure was adopted as the platform, and gradually integrated ultra-wideband absorption and ultra-high Q-value narrowband bidirectional absorption functions. The physical mechanisms of its Q-BIC resonance and dipole-electro-dipole dominance were revealed. Eventually, a balance was achieved between simplified structure and performance breakthroughs. In the future, the focus will be on its multi-functional integration and practical applications: for example, through electrical/optical control, developing rapid dynamic control technologies to enhance the sensitivity of narrowband sensing and coverage of the broadband, and achieving programmable and miniaturized integration for application in the field of biosensors.

NH: How do you feel about Nanoscale Horizons as a place to publish research on this topic?

CW: Nanoscale Horizons focuses on the cutting-edge, interdisciplinary and highly promising major scientific research advancements. This is an excellent choice for sharing our research results in the field of terahertz absorbers. Moreover, the efficient and fair review and publication process ensures that our work can be promptly delivered to the scientific community, which is of great significance for promoting the development of this field and related fields. Given the growing interest in simple yet multifunctional terahertz absorber solutions, Nanoscale Horizons will continue to attract a large number of readers who are eager to explore the latest developments in this area.

NH: What aspect of your work are you most excited about at the moment?

CW: I am highly interested in biomedical research, terahertz absorption materials, and low-dimensional transistors and their application fields. I look forward to more interdisciplinary cutting-edge research in the future, such as highly sensitive, highly selective and stable medical sensing technologies.

NH: In your opinion, what are the most important questions to be asked/answered in this field of research?

CW: How to ingeniously achieve a low-power, fast dynamic response, stable multi-functional terahertz absorber through a simplified and compatible design strategy with mainstream processes, and how the simulated designs can effectively guide practical applications.

NH: What do you find most challenging about your research?

CW: Having a research team with an adequate number of members and cultivating the team’s ability to solve problems effectively.

NH: In which upcoming conferences or events may our readers meet you?

CW: I usually attend the National Physics Conference, the International Electronic Information Conference and the National Chemistry Conference. I also hope to participate in the special seminars organized by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) of the UK.

NH: How do you spend your spare time?

CW: Reading, meditating, appreciating the scenery, planting plants or communicating with companions.

NH: Can you share one piece of career-related advice or wisdom with other early career scientists?

CW: The passion for research is like daily reading in life. Pay attention to the latest scientific research reports, while also keeping an eye on the research content that interests you. Maintain your research acuity and openness, but don’t be overly anxious. Just gradually put your ideas into practice.

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