The tiny microchips that power modern technologies are already an impressive feat but materials research scientist Qi Zhang seeks to push the boundaries even further. As part of the Center for X-Ray Optics, powered by the Advanced Light Source at Berkeley Lab, Zhang is studying the fundamental properties of the materials used to design and build microchips. Her work will help create products that are smaller, faster, and more efficient.

Two researchers donning personal protective equipment inspect a mirror chamber used to create custom and dynamic illumination patterns for testing the limits of semiconductor materials.

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A man wearing a burgundy sweater, light-blue button-down shirt, and dark-rimmed eyeglasses stands in front of machinery made of transparent and black-toned materials while holding a large, rainbow-colored reflective disc in a clean room setting with white walls.

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A collage image of a research adjusting an experiment. The research and experiment are superimposed over a teal background with a cartoon spider.

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