By: Suzaliza Mustafar & Noorshida Mohd Ali
Tanjong Malim, 12 March 2025 – The 4P Unit of the Faculty of Science and Mathematics (FSM) recently hosted an engaging sharing session which offered faculty members invaluable insights into the cutting-edge field of coordination chemistry. Exposure to the latest trends in fundamental research and publication in high-impact journals is one of the key agendas in strengthening the 4P in each faculty. Therefore, the event named Breaking a New Ground in Coordination Chemistry took place at Seminar Room, FSM featured esteemed guest speaker Prof. Dr. Ryota Sakamoto from the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Japan. Prof. Dr. Ryota Sakamoto is a professor at Tohoku University with expertise in the field of coordination chemistry. He has published numerous articles in high-impact journals with H-index 41 and more than six thousand citations of his works. One of his achievements includes successfully creating the world’s first bottom-up nanosheet that exhibits electrical conductivity.
His presentation provided a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements and emerging trends in coordination chemistry which covers a wide range of scientific fields, starting with the construction of nanomaterials, evaluation of properties and functionality and application as devices. In fact, Prof. Dr. Sakamoto is actively developing and researching functional materials such as low-dimensional coordination materials, hydrogen storage materials, porous molecular conductor and nanomaterials and molecular machines that function with light.
Tohoku University, home to Prof. Dr. Sakamoto is one of the leading research institutions in Japan which is renowned for its excellence in science and technology. Founded in 1907 as the third Imperial University following the prestigious University of Tokyo and Kyoto University. Tohoku University has been consistently ranked amongst the top academic institutions in Japan. Its research achievements and contributions, coupled with its wide network of collaborative partners, led to it being one of the first institutions to be conferred the status of a Designated National University by the Japanese government in June 2017. The Times Higher Education Japan University Ranking in 2023 is led by Tohoku University for the fourth consecutive year. Its commitment to innovation and discovery has made it a hub for groundbreaking research across various disciplines. The speaker’s affiliation with such a prestigious institution added significant weight to the event, inspiring attendees to pursue their own research endeavours with renewed enthusiasm.
The 4P unit’s initiative in organizing such events plays a vital role in fostering a vibrant academic community and promoting knowledge exchange. The sharing session provided a platform for students and faculty members to engage in stimulating discussions and expand their understanding of coordination chemistry. The Faculty of Science and Mathematics extends its sincere gratitude to Prof. Dr. Ryota Sakamoto for his insightful presentation and to all participants who contributed to the success of the event. This sharing session serves as a testament to the faculty’s commitment to providing its faculty members with access to world-class expertise and fostering a culture of academic excellence.