Scholarships Promote Research in High Temperature Superconductivity and Related Energy Materials

Four Physics Ph.D. students were awarded scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year from the Texas Center for Superconductivity at the University of Houston (TcSUH).

The scholarships, awarded to graduate students working with or advised by TcSUH-affiliated faculty members, are based on merit and reward outstanding academic and research progress. They are intended to promote TcSUH research programs in high temperature superconductivity and related energy materials.

Professor Zhifeng Ren, Paul C.W. Chu and May P. Chern Endowed Chair in Condensed Matter Physics and director of TcSUH, said the pool of applicants for this cycle was outstanding and the Scholarship Committee found it difficult to choose the final recipients.

Recipients will discuss their research projects on September 13 at TcSUH’s Fall Welcome and Scholarship Symposium.

C. W. Chu Scholarship

Thacien Habamahoro

Advisor: Paul Chu
Habamahoro obtained his Bachelor of Science in physics with honors from the University of Rwanda. Subsequently, he pursued a master’s degree in theoretical physics at the ICTP-East African Institute of Fundamental Research. Inspired by the outstanding research of UH’s scholars, he enrolled in the physics Ph.D. program at UH. He has been actively involved in experimental research on superconductors and related novel materials at TcSUH. Habamahoro’s current research explores superconductivity in-Ruddlesden-Popper nickelate phases. He aims to achieve ambient-pressure superconductivity using chemical doping or pressure quenching techniques recently developed in the Chu lab. Habamahoro is determined to make significant contributions to the field of superconductivity.

Cora Hawley Scholarships

Paul Byaruhanga

Advisor: Shuo Chen
A graduate of Makerere University, Byaruhanga transitioned to advanced research in experimental physics after an inspiring stint at the ICTP-East African Institute for Fundamental Research, specializing in condensed matter physics. His academic journey took a pivotal turn when he learned about the pioneering work at TcSUH, sparking a deep interest in exploring new frontiers in the field. With a solid theoretical background, Byaruhanga was driven by a desire to immerse himself in experimental approaches, aiming to contribute innovative solutions and deepen his understanding of physical phenomena. His current research activities reflect his commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in physics, combining rigorous analysis with practical experimentation to uncover new insights into electrode materials for hydrogen applications.

Navmi Naik

Advisor: Zhifeng Ren
Naik received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in physics from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, India. Her journey into research gained momentum during an impactful internship at the Indian Institute of Technology, inspiring her to pursue a Ph.D. pursuit in physics at UH. Currently, Naik focuses her research on developing efficient bifunctional catalysts for water electrolysis, which is vital for sustainable energy solutions. Beyond her academic pursuits, she actively engages in leadership roles, serving as vice chair of student org relations at the Energy Coalition and as treasurer for the Women in Physics Society. Naik advocates for collaboration and diversity within STEM in these capacities, striving to foster a positive impact on scientific innovation and inclusivity efforts.

Swadeepan Nanda

Advisor: Pavan Hosur
Nanda received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in physics from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal. Throughout his academic journey, he developed a strong passion for theoretical physics, particularly at the intersection of high energy physics and condensed matter theory, which led him to pursue research in the UH Department of Physics. Currently, his research focuses on superconductor vortices in novel topological phases of matter. He believes this area of study holds significant potential for breakthroughs in topological quantum computation. Looking ahead, he is eager to delve deeper into the application of superconductor vortices in quantum computation.