Yimo Han

Dr. Yimo Han is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Materials Science and NanoEngineering at Rice University. She holds a B.S. in Physics from Tsinghua University (2012) and a Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Cornell University (2018). Her research focuses on advanced electron microscopy techniques to study nanomaterials, biomaterials, and interfaces at the atomic scale. Key areas include 2D material characterization, cryo-EM for structural biology, and applications in clean energy, biosensing, and next-generation electronics.

Education:

• Ph.D., Applied Physics, Cornell University, 2018
• B.S., Mathematics and Physics, Tsinghua University, 2012

Research emphasizes multi-dimensional microscopy to explore material systems such as van der Waals heterostructures, ferroelectric domains, and catalytic nanoparticles. Her lab develops novel synthesis methods (e.g., flash Joule heating) and analytical frameworks like the PEAR automation tool for ptychography. Current projects include operando electrochemical imaging, strain engineering in nanocatalysts, and PFAS mineralization through carbon-based materials.

Collaborations span materials science, biology, and engineering, with recent work on neuromorphic computing materials and fast-charging battery interfaces. The Han Lab is part of Rice's interdisciplinary materials innovation ecosystem, emphasizing scalable synthesis and real-world applications.