2025 Activity Report vol.37:Hokkaido University

From February 16 to February 25, 2026, this program invited Senior Lecturer Nurul Asikin Mijan and seven other faculty members from the National University of Malaysia (UKM). With the aim of improving microscopic observation techniques ranging from the micrometer to the nanometer scale, participants received hands-on training in the operation of three types of electron microscopes (SEM, STEM, and TEM) and a scanning tunneling microscope (STM).

[Day 1]

The members arrived at Hokkaido University in the snow.

In the afternoon, we conducted a scanning electron microscope (SEM) practical session at the XPS Laboratory in the Faculty of Engineering at Hokkaido University. Today, we measured coreshell samples synthesized at UKM. First, a technical staff member demonstrated the process from sample preparation to obtaining SEM images. Afterward, with guidance from the staff, we operated the equipment ourselves to capture SEM images. The participants were thrilled to see the SEM images they had taken for the first time.

[Day 2]

In the morning, we continued the SEM measurement lab from the previous day. Today's objective was to observe the nanostructure of activated carbon samples synthesized at UKM. Thanks to the skills we acquired during the previous day's lab, we were able to operate the SEM equipment smoothly.

In the afternoon, we learned about the principles of the scanning tunneling microscope (STM). Afterward, we moved on to the Welcome Meeting, where participants introduced themselves and shared information about their hometowns. As we got to know each other's unique qualities, we gradually began to feel more at ease with one another.

[Day 3]

Today's session focused on STM measurements. To learn how to operate the instrument, we observed the cleavage graphite sample. After a demonstration covering everything from sample preparation to instrument operation, the participants conducted their own measurements. Based on the images obtained, they repeatedly adjusted the measurement conditions through their own analysis, aiming to observe atomic-scale images. Unfortunately, we were unable to observe clear atomic images on this day, but two days later, we were able to clearly observe each and every carbon atom arranged in a periodic pattern.

Between STM measurements, we toured the molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) system used to fabricate ultrathin films and the ultra-low temperature, ultra-high vacuum STM system used for superconductivity research. Since these were state-of-the-art devices that everyone was seeing for the first time, participants actively asked questions.

After the hands-on session, we toured the Hokkaido University Museum. The exhibits ranged widely from dinosaur skeletons to original scientific and technological achievements of Hokkaido University, spanning from its founding to the present day. The participants viewed the exhibits with great enthusiasm, and the one-hour tour was far too short. In the exhibition on the Ainu people, we gained insight into aspects of Ainu culture born from coexistence with the harsh natural environment, and developed a deep sense of respect for indigenous peoples.

[Day 4]

Today, we are conducting a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) lab session at the Research Institute for Electronic Science at Hokkaido University. Under the guidance of a technical staff member, we operated the STEM instrument (HD-2000) to observe Ru-MOF samples synthesized using UKM. We learned that by utilizing the three different measurement modes available on the STEM, we can obtain a wide range of information, and we also recognized the instrument's user-friendly design. In parallel with this, we also conducted a practical session on preparing samples for electron microscopy observation.

[Day 5]

In the morning, we conducted a hands-on session on preparing samples for STM measurements.

In the afternoon, we conducted a hands-on session using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) at the Research Institute for Electronic Science. Although we were overwhelmed by the scale of the TEM (JEM-ARM200F) installed in a specially designed room to suppress vibrations and temperature fluctuations and cancel out the Earth's magnetic field in order to achieve atomic resolution, we proceeded with high-resolution observations of the core-shell samples synthesized at UKM. We were thrilled to be able to observe the atomic arrangement in the samples we had synthesized ourselves.

[Day 6]

We started proper STM measurements today. The sample is carbon cloth. Unlike graphite, we're really struggling to collect the data.

[Day 7]

Following on from the previous day, we conducted STM measurements on carbon cloth. Although the measurements were challenging, through trial and error and by discussing the results and providing feedback, we learned the importance of this process in achieving better outcomes.

[Day 8]

Today, we conducted STM measurements on core-shell samples. The participants practiced operating the equipment until they were able to do so independently, and were able to observe the core-shell samples using STM for the first time.

[Day 9]

In the morning, we continued the STM measurements of the core-shell samples from the previous day and obtained several interesting STM images. In the afternoon, we held the Summary Meeting to review the entire program. Each participant presented their findings from the program and summarized their future prospects. Finally, we awarded certificates of completion. Representatives from Hokkaido University's Public Relations Office visited to cover today's hands-on session and summary meeting.

[Day 10]

We bid each other a fond farewell, promising to meet again someday. The participants then headed home from Chitose Airport.

Despite concerns about whether participants could endure a 10-day stay in frigid Hokkaido after coming from the ever-summery climate of Malaysia, everyone approached the program with enthusiasm and energy from start to finish.

They gained the invaluable experience of operating state-of-the-art equipment themselves. Furthermore, one of the key outcomes was that they were inspired not only by the technology itself but also by the collaborative approach where researchers and technical staff (operators) discussed and refined measurements together. We have high hopes that they will put the skills, knowledge, and attitude toward measurement gained here into practice back in Malaysia.