Saw Wai Hla | Falling Walls Science Breakthrough of the Year 2024: Physical Sciences
Revolutionary X-ray Technology at the Atomic Level
Saw Wai Hla has achieved what once seemed impossible: along with his team, he has detected the X-ray signals of a single atom for the first time. This groundbreaking achievement is revolutionizing X-ray spectroscopy and opening new pathways in quantum research, medical technology, and materials science. For his work, Hla will be awarded the "Breakthrough of the Year 2024" by the Falling Walls Foundation in the Physical Sciences category on November 9, 2024.
Hla is a professor of physics at Ohio University and a scientist at the Argonne National Laboratory. He also leads the Nanoscale and Quantum Phenomena Institute at Ohio University. His research, focused on how atomic and molecular structures can be controlled and modified, is globally recognized. Hla brings an international perspective to his work, having been educated in Myanmar, earned his Ph.D. in Europe, and currently conducting research in the U.S., with guest professorships in Germany and France.
Breaking the Wall of 128 Years of X-ray History
“Since the discovery of X-rays nearly 130 years ago, scientists have dreamed of using them to study individual atoms,” says Hla. Until now, this was only possible with large collections of atoms—10,000 or more. Hla and his team have broken this barrier and successfully detected the X-ray signal of a single atom. They achieved this using a technique called X-ray scanning tunneling microscopy (SX-STM). In this method, an X-ray beam activates an atom’s electrons, which are then captured by a metal tip placed extremely close to the atom. This allowed Hla to precisely identify the atom and determine its chemical state.
Hla’s team also developed a technique called "X-ray excited resonance tunneling" (X-ERT). It allows researchers to study the electron orbits of a molecule on a material surface. X-ERT contributes to a better understanding and manipulation of material properties at the atomic level.
Implications for Quantum Computing, Medicine, and Industry
“Our breakthrough is indeed a revolution in X-ray spectroscopy,” says Hla. “It has the potential to transform research in quantum computing and medicine.” In medical technology, this could lead to more precise diagnostic tools, while in semiconductor research, it could drive the development of more efficient technologies. For instance, this breakthrough could significantly improve the energy efficiency, speed, and performance of components like transistors and memory devices. The ability to determine the chemical state of individual atoms opens the door to entirely new industrial applications.
Inspiring Future Scientists
In addition to his scientific work, Hla is passionate about inspiring young researchers. His advice: “Be curious, respect your teammates, and don’t give up, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles.” When not in the lab, Hla enjoys skiing and hiking. He was also a professional bass guitarist and still plays the guitar as a creative outlet.
Click here for more information about Saw Wai Hla's event at Falling Walls Science Summit 2024.
