Yi Cui | Student Spotlight
Yi Cui
Ph.D. Student
Materials Science and Engineering
"I work on designing new materials to help address global challenges such as climate change and energy sustainability.
At Stanford, I work on synthesis and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterization of nano crystals. We grow gold nanodiscs between twisted molybdenum disulfide bilayers and investigate how their twist angles affect the growth of gold. The result leads to the discovery of "twisted epitaxy", a new concept in crystal growth within a two-dimensional confined space, which holds promise for the development of next-generation materials for solar cells, quantum computers, lasers and other devices.
In addition to my own research, I believe that positive mentorship and service are equally important for contributing to the research community around me. Over the past two years, I have mentored a few students in my group from diverse backgrounds. I also help organize out Stanford Electron Microscopy-X (EM-X) monthly international seminars since 2022. Each seminar features two renowned researchers in electron microscopy who present their latest research to an audience of over 150 attendees worldwide. Outside of my academic endeavors, I have a keen interest in international relations and fostering cross-cultural understanding and am now pursuing a PhD minor in the Department of Communication."
