Obinna Uzoh

I am from Nigeria. After my undergraduate program in Nigeria, I was privileged to be awarded a three-year scholarship to Korea to learn the Korean language and culture and obtain an M.Sc. degree in Physics (Computational Physics) at Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU). At SKKU, I studied superconductivity in a certain class of materials using density functional theory. Currently, I am pursuing another M.Sc. in Physics, focusing on Experimental Material Physics at Simon Fraser University (SFU).
Outside my studies, I enjoy interacting with people, building networks, reading prose, and playing soccer. Also, I find some delights engaging in philosophical thoughts.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I chose to come to SFU because the Physics graduate program is really attractive. It offers an enabling environment to share ideas with peers and professors in weekly seminars and colloquia. The research atmosphere is heavily collaborative, and the research outputs are robust. I am even more drawn by the fact that the department houses leading scientists in different physics fields.   

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESEARCH AND/OR PROGRAM.

My research focuses on the study of magnetism and superconductivity in quantum materials. Superconductivity is the abrupt loss of electrical resistance of material below a specific critical temperature; it has essential applications in MRI scanners.

I will be working in the Emerging Materials lab of Dr. Eundeok Mun, to synthesize crystalline materials and then use experimental probes to try to make sense of their interesting quantum properties.

In addition to magnetism and superconductivty, I would be searching for other novel quantum properties of these crystalline materials. If discovered, these properties would unlock our understanding of the universe around us and may even go on to inspire the next technological applications.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

I just completed my first semester at SFU outside Canada, and I cannot wait to start the Spring 2021 term physically present in Canada. Thus far, I particularly enjoy the interactive nature of my classes. I like that the department brings students and staff together to share research findings and discuss research papers. Additionally, courses here are taught for the students to learn and be inspired. This has increased my curiosity in my specific area of research interest and generally in physics research. 

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR FUNDED AWARDS?

Recently, I was awarded the Special Graduate Entrance Scholarship. As a new SFU student, it has helped me offset my tuition and other fees, and has gone a long way in assisting my settling in Canada.
In the past, before starting my studies in Canada, I was a recipient of the Global Korea Scholarship. This is a full scholarship that covered for my tuition and living expenses for three years in Korea – one year in studying the Korean language and two years  Master’s program.

Contact Obinna: opu@sfu.ca
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/obinna-uzoh