Deji Akinwande
Cockrell Family Regents Chair in Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin Chandra Family Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
From Electrons to Photons: Decoding the Secrets of Tomorrow’s Photoresist Design
Atomic 2D materials such as graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides offer unique properties driven by dimensional scaling, including enhanced electronic, mechanical, and chemical behaviors. Their ultrathin nature fosters improved quantum transport and surface-driven phenomena that can boost device performance beyond conventional materials. In computing, 2D-based resistive switching devices promise high-density, low-energy neuromorphic systems, and novel opto-electronic functionalities. Their flexibility, giant surface to volume ratio, and biocompatibility also enable wearable sensors for continuous, unobtrusive health monitoring. Furthermore, atomic nanolayers are being explored for ion exchange membranes in fuel cells, where they reduce crossover losses and enhance ionic conductivity, pointing to more efficient clean energy systems.
This presentation details our recent advances in the fundamental exploration of atomically-thin materials, highlighting pioneering investigations and translational approaches aimed at addressing pressing challenges in computing, healthcare, and sustainability.
About Deji Akinwande
Deji Akinwande is a Chair Professor of Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin, and a Fellow of the IEEE, the MRS, the APS, and the AAS. His research focuses on two-dimensional (2D) materials, pioneering device innovations from lab towards applications for which he is a Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher. He has conducted groundbreaking work in the fields of nanotechnology and 2D materials including atomically-thin electronics, neuromorphic computing, biosensors, and flexible/wearable devices. His work has been instrumental in advancing the fundamental science and practical applications of 2D materials, bridging the gap between nanoscale innovation and real-world technologies.
