Leader in Integrated ICT Hardware & Systems
Together with sponsor Xceleprint, Tyndall celebrates the winners and finalists of the 2022 Postgraduate Publication of the Year.
Dr Fatima Gunning, Head of Graduate Studies at Tyndall, praised the entries, saying: "Here at Tyndall, our students really are the foundations of our research excellence and the annual Postgraduate Research Publication of Year competition offers them a fantastic opportunity to showcase their excellence. In this year’s competition, our PhD students submitted exceptional publications - congratulations to all!"
Alin Mihai Fecioru, Senior Program Manager, X-Celeprint, commented, “X-Celeprint is honoured to support these highly committed researchers and their pivotal work in graphene-like carbon, tuneable microwave generation and sustainable materials. Their achievements reflect their passion for research excellence and Tyndall's pursuit of pushing the frontiers of research. Congratulations to all the awardees!”
Runner-up
What encouraged you to submit your application to the 2022 Postgraduate Research Publication of the Year?
As an aspiring researcher, I was aware of the reputation of the prestigious Tyndall Postgraduate Research Publication of the Year award. The opportunity to showcase my work published in the prestigious journal like IEEE Transactions on Electron Devices and gain recognition for my research carried out in the Micropower Devices and Nanomagnetics Group at Tyndall National Institute, University College Cork was a significant motivator for submitting my application. The opportunity to have my paper evaluated and recognized by a group of experts in the field was motivating.
What inspired you to choose the subject of your paper?
I was inspired to choose the subject of my paper based on the emerging field of spintronics and the potential for advancing information technology. The idea of harnessing the interaction between the surface acoustic waves (SAWs – phonon), the spin waves (SWs – magnon) and the electromagnetic (EM) waves (photon) to generate tuneable microwave frequencies and miniaturization of the antenna sparked my interest to pursue the work. The magnetoelectric heterostructures consisting of the magnetostrictive nanowires/nanodots patterned on the piezoelectric substrate, and the realization of the phonon-magnon-photon coupling presented a unique and promising avenue for research.
What’s your paper about and how did you prepare for it? What role did research excellence play in your approach?
My paper focuses on the development of a “magnon microwave antenna” (MMA) for generating microwaves with tuneable frequencies. The paper details the modulation of confined spin waves in a patterned array of magnetostrictive nanomagnets/piezoelectric heterostructures, caused by surface acoustic waves (SAWs). The generated spin waves (magnons), then interact with electromagnetic radiation (photon) at the SAW frequency, resulting in the desired microwave frequency.
To prepare for this research, I conducted a comprehensive literature review to understand the existing knowledge and advancements in the field of spintronics, magnetostrictive materials, and phonon-magnon-photon coupling. I performed COMSOL simulations first to design the patterned array of nanomagnets and piezoelectric substrates. Following that, I performed an advanced micromagnetic simulation to study the resulting magneto-dynamical resonance modes and the characteristics of the generated microwaves.
Research excellence played a crucial role in my approach. I strived to ensure the accuracy and reliability of my findings through top-end simulation and meticulous data analysis. I sought feedback from my supervisor (Prof. Saibal Roy) to understand the underlying physics behind such MMA and refine my research methodology and strengthen the quality of my paper.
The selection for Research Publication of the Year is extremely competitive. What is your advice for those aspiring for nomination next year?
For those aspiring to be nominated for the Research Publication of the Year, I would advise the following:
Choose a research topic that you are genuinely passionate about. The dedication and enthusiasm you bring to your work will shine through in your publication.
Irrespective of the medium of the work, whether simulation or experimental-based work, always conduct thorough and comprehensive research. Stay up to date with the latest advancements and incorporate relevant literature into your work.
Engage in discussions, seek feedback, and consider multiple perspectives to strengthen your research.
Pay attention to detail and ensure the accuracy and reliability of your findings.
Write clearly and concisely. Communicate your research effectively, highlighting the significance and implications of your findings.
Seek opportunities for presenting and discussing your research at conferences and seminars to gain valuable feedback and recognition from the expert of your field.
Lastly, believe in the value of your research and its potential impact. Passion and confidence in your work will set you apart.
What is the single most significant support Tyndall has been able to offer you in achieving your research goals?
Tyndall has been a valuable institution in supporting my research endeavours. Whilst reflecting on the significant support provided, it is important to acknowledge that my paper heavily relied on simulation-based work. In this particular case, COMSOL software plays an important role in designing the antenna structure and subsequent analysis. Due to the considerable cost associated with the COMSOL software, pursuing this research would have been nearly impossible without the support from Tyndall.
Moreover, beyond the specific resources used, Tyndall's research environment has been instrumental for my research. Engaging with researchers from diverse disciplines has enriched my understanding and provided valuable insights that have greatly contributed to the refinement of my work.
Furthermore, the quality expertise and excellent guidance from my supervisor (Prof. Saibal Roy) at Tyndall have played a pivotal role in shaping my research approach and enhancing the quality of my work. His support has been invaluable in navigating through the complexities of the research process and ensuring the rigor and excellence of my findings.