Sergio Puebla is defending his thesis: "the most valuable lesson has been that great things happen when you work with a diverse team"

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Sergio Puebla is a PhD researcher who is becoming a doctor these days. On July, 29th, he is defending the work he has been doing last years under the direction of Andrés Castellanos and Carmen Munuera. His thesis, entitled 'Free-standing Transition Metal Oxide Thin Films: From Properties to Application' is about "very thin materials", he explains to a non-scientific audience. "I start making the wax to rocks that delaminate and separate them in very thin layers to build electronic devices and be able to inspect their optical and electronic properties", he adds. 

Why did you choose ICMM for your PhD?

After finishing my MSc. degree in renewable energies, I wanted to work in materials science. By that time I knew the 2D Foundry group and, when I had the first interview with them I was sure I wanted to work here.

What are the main applications of your research? Could you give us an example?

My research primarily applies to optoelectronic devices, energy storage and conversion, ferroelectric capacitors, non-volatile memory, and semiconductor technologies. 

For example, my work on materials like MoS2 and BaTiO3 improves photodetectors and light-emitting devices, enhances battery and supercapacitor efficiency, and advances transistor technology. Additionally, the mechanical characterization of thin films aids in developing more sensitive sensors and actuators.

What are the lessons you had learnt here? which one do you value the most?

I've learned a lot during my research, especially the importance of collaborating with people from different fields. Being adaptable and paying attention to detail have also been crucial. But the most valuable lesson has been that great things happen when you work with a diverse team.

How do you think this experience will contribute to your training and to your future?

This experience has provided me with several research, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. It has strengthened my ability to address complex scientific challenges and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. I hope these skills will contribute to my training and in my future career.

What are your plans once you finish your PhD?

I am planning to relocate to the U.S.A., where my partner is pursuing a postdoctoral position. My goal is to continue my career in academia or research in industry. I am open to exploring new opportunities and paths for my professional development.

Why did you become a scientist? Who have been your role models?

I initially wanted to become a chef. However, to meet my parents' expectations, I pursued a bachelor's degree in physics. My high school physics teacher inspired me with his passion for science and the subject. Over the years, during both my bachelor's and master's studies, I gradually became involved in research, and I have come to enjoy it more and more up to the present day.