Winter School on Quantum Materials

Winter School & Student’s Poster Competition

The Winter School on 'Quantum Materials for Energy and Environmental Technologies' seamlessly integrates networking opportunities for both Arab and German students, alongside expert presentations focusing on new materials for sustainable energy technologies.

In a collaborative effort between the Arab-German Young Academy of Sciences and Humanities (AGYA) and the University of Sharjah, the recent AGYA Winter School organized by AGYA alumnus Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Abdel-Hafiez and AGYA member Dr. Mohammed Vall, unfolded a captivating journey into the realm of quantum materials and their potential applications in the sustainable energy sector. The event brought together talented students, high-ranking researchers, and international experts to delve into the forefront of scientific innovation.

Sharing here my expertise and insights on single crystal growth with Arab and German students may empower the next generation of scientists and contributes to the advancement of our collective knowledge. By engaging with students, we foster an environment of continuous learning and critical thinking, laying the groundwork for future breakthroughs and innovations.

Dr. Kristin Kliemt, AGYA Member

Student’s Poster Competition as Interdisciplinary Platform for Exchange

The Winter School aimed to provide a platform for more than 20 talented Arab and German students to immerse themselves in the field of quantum materials as well as intercultural exchange. With a focus on promoting theoretical and experimental research, participants were introduced to the fundamental principles and latest advancements in this dynamic domain by high-ranking experts from the field. Presented by international scientists, the program included a variety of topics ranging from the theory of materials to quantum magnetism, crystal growth, and properties of such superconducting materials. 
The first day also featured an international student poster competition, providing students with a platform to display their research endeavors and discuss future collaboration possibilities with the invited speakers. The event culminated with a poster award ceremony, where outstanding contributions from participants were celebrated and the winners of the best posters were announced:

• Three-dimensional Magnetic Resonance Tomography with Sub-10 Nanometer Resolution by Mohammad Amawi, University of Rostock, Germany
• Tuning SERS Activities of Pyramidal-Nanowire / Silver Chemosensors for Effective Detection of Multi-Hazardous Pollutants by Abdel Rahman Allan, University of Sharjah, UAE
• Magnetoelastic Coupling in the Ferromagnetic Van-der-Waals Materials CrI3 and Cr2Ge2Te6" by Erik Walendy, University of Heidelberg, Germany

Excellent Research Possibilities at the University of Sharjah

The event started with a warm welcome from distinguished guests including Prof. Dr. Youssef Al Haik, Vice Chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Sharjah, Prof. Dr. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for research and graduate studies, and Prof. Dr. Nouar Tabet, Dean of the College of Sciences. Their presence and support from the University of Sharjah were instrumental in facilitating the exchange with the local research community. This strong partnership enhanced the event, attracting numerous students and researchers who actively participated in fruitful discussions and knowledge sharing sessions.

The University of Sharjah is renowned for its research excellence and is considered one of the leading research institutions in the Arab world. This collaboration provided a valuable opportunity for participants to engage with experts from the local academic community and further enrich their understanding of the latest trends and challenges in the field of quantum materials.

A visit to the Center for Advanced Material Center CAMR (RISE) at the University of Sharjah provided students with a firsthand look into state-of-the-art research facilities and facilitated connections with the local academic community. Following this enlightening experience, attendees embarked on a scientific excursion and tour of the planetarium at the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST). This excursion not only enriched their understanding of the universe but also served as a captivating addition to their academic journey.

When Science Meets Art

The event was concluded with another twist bridging science and art. The evening event provided a space for the intersection of these two seemingly distinct domains, where the creativity and expression of art intersect with the analytical and empirical nature of science. Surrounded by historical buildings, Dr. Saleem Al-Baghlouly explained how scientific concepts inspired the work of Iraqi artist Shakir Hassan Al Said in a dinner talk followed by a stroll through Sharjah’s fascinating art galleries feature international artists.