MANAR Researcher Spotlight August 2015: Hung Q. Pham
August’s Researcher Spotlight focuses on Hung Q. Pham. Hung has been a research assistant since the beginning of MANAR. This upcoming fall semester he will enter the Chemistry Ph.D. program at University of Minnesota in the US. Hung has played an integral role on two of MANAR’s publications.
Name:
Hung Q. Pham
Hometown:
Bien Hoa, Dong Nai
Research Focus:
I am interested in the electronic and adsorptive properties of crystalline framework materials. Basically, in my research, I employ first principle calculation and Monte Carlo simulation to predict and interpret experimental observations on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) or covalent-organic frameworks (COFs). The long-term target is to design new compounds with exceptional properties, and of course, be possibly realized by experimental chemists.
Tell us something about your current research:
Recently, I have been motivated by the idea that in COF chemistry one can possibly combine porosity and semiconductor behavior into one unique structure. The diversity of organic building units might generate unlimited number of COF structures, and more importantly, this can be done in a predetermined manner. In our study, we seek to understand the mechanism of charge transfer processes in COF environments and to interpret chemical factors that influence COFs’ performances. So far we are concentrating on COFs with single-layered structure with the goal of replacing other common 2D materials, such as graphene, molybdenum disulfide, or phosphorene. In terms of long-term targets, we seek to design 3D structures with high porosity and charge mobility. This is really an interesting topic to work on.
What got you interested in chemistry? How does chemistry inspire you?
With chemistry we can create things, yes, almost everything. It is amazing that one can create from molecules with the size of several angstroms to macromolecules with the size of thousands of angstrom and from building blocks of non-living things to those of living things. It is not an exaggeration to say that humans cannot live without chemistry and that is why chemistry inspires me to become a chemist.
What you like best about working at MANAR? What has been your proudest moment at MANAR?
Working at MANAR is an unforgettable experience for me. At MANAR, we not only collaborate and learn from leading scientists in the field but also from our peers. Indeed, we collaborate with others to carry out meaningful projects where many techniques and skills are required. No matter who you are, your opinion will always be appreciated and considered. This manner is not a popular style in our home country and this is what I like best about working at MANAR.
My proudest moment at MANAR must be the ‘150 Years of Beautiful Structures and Defects’ conference where many great scientists came to Vietnam to give their talks. This was an invaluable experience not only for MANAR people but for many Vietnamese scholars and students. I am really proud of myself for being a part of the organizing committee of such an important event.
What are your future goals (scientific/career/short-term/long-term)?
My short-term goal must be finishing my Ph.D. in the next five years. Also, during this demanding but rewarding experience, I hope I can find out my own chemistry since it is really wonderful when you are the first person to know something. For my long-term, I seek to find a job in academia, a research professor, for instance, which will allow me to do my own science.
Favorite quote:
‘The ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.” – by Steve Jobs.
Three words to describe yourself:
Persistent, Perseverant, Passionate
