Rafael Gregorio Mendes, Ph.D

Exploring 2D Materials Atom-by-Atom Using TEM

Decoding Materials Atom-by-Atom


Exploring 2D Materials, In Situ TEM, and the Frontier of Electron-Driven Innovation


I am a scientist specialized in Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and 2D nanomaterials, with a recognized research career spanning Brazil, Germany, China, the Netherlands, and more recently France. My passion lies in exploring and manipulating fundamental properties of materials at the atomic scale, enabling transformative advancements in materials science and nanotechnology. 

   Research Vision

My goal is to consolidate a leading research group at the intersection of in situ TEM, electron beam engineering, and 2D materials. I envision:
  • Expanding electron-driven experiments for atom-by-atom synthesis and manipulation of 2D materials.
  • Pioneering research into metallenes and in situ gas-phase experiments to unlock new avenues in nanotechnology.

  Career Highlights

  • Tenure-Track Appointment: I recently secured a position as a researcher at CNRS/ICMN in France (2023), supported by a €200k starting research grant.
  • TEM Expertise: I have extensive experience with aberration-corrected and in situ TEM techniques, focusing on unraveling atomic-level dynamics in complex materials.
  •  Global Research Experience: My journey has allowed me to work across five countries, building interdisciplinary expertise and strong international collaborations. 

  Key Contributions

  • Metallenes Research: My recent work focuses on the in situ growth of 2D metal nanostructures (metallenes), expanding the possibilities of metallene applications. 
  • Industrial Applications: My collaboration with Shell involved atomic-resolution TEM characterization of 2D hydrotreating catalysts, highlighting the industrial potential of supported 2D nanomaterials. 
  • Graphene Coating and Transfer: During my PhD, I developed an in situ method for graphitizing oleic acid to synthesize few-layer graphene coatings, a pivotal step in 2D material processing.
  • MXene Discoveries: I explored the electron-beam degradation of MXene monolayers, which unexpectedly led to the discovery of two novel nanomaterials.
  • 2D Carbon Nitride: I advanced understanding of electron-sensitive 2D carbon nitride, demonstrating how TEM at variable voltages can achieve local compositional control.

Academic Achievements

  • Impactful Publications: I have authored or co-authored over 70 publications, with nearly 5,000 citations and an h-index of 31 (updated November 2024)​
  •  Recognized Expertise: I have been invited to present my research on electron-beam-driven synthesis and imaging of 2D materials at international conferences and workshops. 

Contact


Rafael Gregorio Mendes

Research Scientist | Associate Professor



Interfaces, Confinement, Materials, and Nanostructures

Orléans, CVL
France





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