Meet H2FUTURE postdoctoral Ekta Rani: “Innovating at the nanoscale, powering a sustainable future”
With a PhD in semiconductor nanocomposites, Ekta Rani has utilized Raman and AFM mapping to study various nanocomposites for clean energy solutions. Her postdoctoral work in the UK focused on developing nano-biosensors using AFM lithography. Later, she joined the University of Oulu to work on the Inorganic InStreams project, where she applied lab and synchrotron-based spectro-microscopic investigations towards inorganic material applications.
Currently she is on secondment at Amity University Noida, in her home country India, collaborating on hydrogen research and working towards strengthening India-Finland relations in research and education.
When asked what led her to join the H2FUTURE project and the University of Oulu, Rani explains that her background in lab and synchrotron source-based spectro-microscopic techniques to study nanomaterials along with different growth techniques led her to explore their applications in hydrogen research.
“The University of Oulu provides a strong foundation in sustainable energy research, and H2FUTURE aligns with my passion for developing innovative solutions for clean energy."
“Contributing to material innovations that enhance efficiency and sustainability in hydrogen technologies is highly motivating"
Rani's main research interests in H2FUTURE focus on synthesizing Ni-based electrodes on fabric for their potential applications in catalysis. She is also involved in the development of thin films for H2 storage applications and the application of synchrotron-based spectro-microscopic studies of various aspects of H2FUTURE, such as the reduction of iron ore.
"Hydrogen is at the forefront of clean energy transition, and its potential to revolutionize industries excites me. Contributing to material innovations that enhance efficiency and sustainability in hydrogen technologies is highly motivating," she shares.
Rani envisions her work contributing to a more sustainable future by developing advanced materials for hydrogen production and hydrogen-compatible materials. Her aim is to improve the efficiency and feasibility of hydrogen energy solutions, ultimately supporting a more sustainable and circular economy.
Exploring different cultures provide new perspectives - also for strengthening international clean energy collaborations
In her new position, as she has a special possibility advancing H2FUTURE´s research in India, Rani is eager to foster strong collaborations between India and Finland in hydrogen research, which is also an important part of the University of Oulu´s hydrogen research strategy.
“I am excited to contribute to technological advancements, and establish long-term partnerships that drive innovation in between University of Oulu and Amity University Noida.”
Outside of her research, Ekta enjoys traveling, exploring different cultures, and swimming.
"Traveling provides me with new perspectives and enriches my understanding of the world, while swimming helps me unwind and stay active." she shares.
Her expertise in nanomaterial synthesis, lab and synchrotron-based spectro-microscopic techniques, and sensor development provides a unique perspective on hydrogen-compatible material innovations.
"I aim to deepen my expertise in hydrogen technologies, strengthen international collaborations, and contribute to advancing functional materials for hydrogen applications, with a focus on making hydrogen technologies more efficient and sustainable. contribute to the advancement of materials for clean energy”, she concludes.