Learning progression in advanced materials research: A personal perspective

I was invited as a speaker at the Colloquium of Academic and Research (COAR) 2024, organized by the Faculty of Science and Industrial Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), in collaboration with Universitas Negeri Malang (UM), themed “Advancing Materials for a Sustainable Tomorrow”, held on 23 December 2024.

In my presentation “Learning Progression in Advanced Materials Research: A Personal Perspective,” I shared my reflections on the journey of exploring advanced materials, emphasizing both incremental and problem-driven approaches to scientific discovery. This topic resonates deeply with my experiences as a researcher and educator, where balancing practical advancements with bold, innovative ideas has been a recurring theme.

I began by highlighting the importance of incremental research as a foundation for growth. Often, research is judged by its ability to produce groundbreaking results, but I emphasized how small, deliberate modifications such as refining material structures or tuning acidity levels can lead to meaningful, long-term advancements. I believe this step-by-step process is not only realistic but also essential for building frameworks that enable larger breakthroughs in the future.

I also discussed the role of problem-driven research, particularly my work on phase-boundary catalysis. This type of research demands resilience and a willingness to face uncertainties. While it may not always lead to quick publications, it often paves the way for impactful discoveries. I highlighted how problem-driven research profoundly affects researchers, offering a sense of genuine discovery and innovation that is deeply rewarding. This experience reminds us of the excitement that comes from pushing scientific boundaries and uncovering new possibilities.

As I prepared this presentation, I reflected on my role as a professor and researcher. I emphasized that my responsibilities extend beyond conducting research. I believe it is equally important to inspire students with this sense of discovery. Teaching is not just about transferring knowledge; it is about igniting curiosity, encouraging exploration, and empowering students to think critically about solving problems. I see my role as a mentor who helps students appreciate both the incremental steps and bold leaps required in research, preparing them to face challenges with confidence and creativity.

I also emphasized the value of integrating computational models with experiments to validate findings. In my work, this dual approach has proven indispensable for ensuring reliability and scalability. It has enhanced my ability to make accurate predictions and optimize research outcomes, which I encouraged my audience to adopt as part of their own methodologies.

Through this presentation, I hoped to convey my belief that impactful research requires both patience and boldness. Science is not just about achieving immediate results; it is about contributing meaningful insights over time. As someone passionate about blending theory with practical applications, I see this journey in materials research as a source of motivation to continue pushing boundaries while respecting the value of steady progress.

Finally, I encouraged my audience, especially my students and fellow researchers, to embrace the challenges of research and view it as a lifelong adventure of learning and discovery. It is my hope that this presentation not only shared insights from my personal journey but also inspired others to pursue their own paths of exploration with confidence and enthusiasm.