Celebrating the graduates of Fall 2021: Hao Wang

This year, the University of Alberta is celebrating the achievements of our graduates with a virtual convocation ceremony on November 19. As we acknowledge the achievements of our graduating class, we’re sharing just a few of the amazing stories of our graduates.

Meet Hao Wang, graduating with a PhD from the Department of Chemistry, and hear from him how the research excellence at the U of A drew him to complete his studies here, taking advantage of innovation and entrepreneurial learning opportunities, and on making the world a better place through materials science.

Congratulations, Hao! 

What led you to pick the University of Alberta for your studies?

The University of Alberta is one of the world's leading public research-intensive universities. It has some world-class facilities such as nanoFAB, the Centennial Centre for Interdisciplinary Science, and Nanotechnology Research Centre — which provide an excellent platform to conduct research. Furthermore, the Department of Chemistry provides one of the best chemistry programs in the country. I knew this was the place for me to pursue my doctoral program and realize my dream.

Tell us about your experience in the Faculty of Science.

I joined Professor Jillian Buriak’s research group to explore the beauty of material science. As a leading scientist in materials chemistry, she gave me tremendous support and encouragement during my PhD study. Her knowledge, passion, and attitude towards science influence me a lot. I was able to join Future Energy Systems and attend different international conferences and workshops to meet with other professionals and scholars. 

In addition to this, I participated in extracurricular activities as the vice president of the University of Alberta Nanotechnology Group. I also volunteered with Let's Talk Science and Invest in Your Future Career Symposium. The networking, entrepreneurial, and academic events we organized gave me some unforgettable experiences. 

What is one of your favourite memories from your time at the U of A?

One of my favourite memories was the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Tour hosted by the Alberta School of Business. It gave me a chance to visit some of Edmonton's major hubs for innovation and entrepreneurship such as Advanced Technology Centre (ATC), Alberta Innovates, and Startup Edmonton. This tour helped me meet with successful people from the industry and learn how to commercialize innovative ideas.

What advice do you have for current and future students in the Faculty of Science?

Enjoy your time at the U of A! The U of A provides us with a lot of opportunities and resources to experience a vibrant lifestyle and find the path toward success.

How have you spent your time during COVID-19 distancing?

Working from home gave me a chance to focus on writing my thesis and thinking about how to solve the problem I faced during my recent projects and optimize it. In my spare time, I backpacked and kayaked with my friends in Banff, Jasper, and Yoho.

How do you plan on celebrating convocation?

I would like to celebrate it with my family and friends. Planning a journey when travel is possible!

What's next after graduation?

I am currently working as a research scientist with Coloursmith Labs Inc. I will continue to use my expertise to develop new materials for a better life.