Nathan Tsui
Dublin,CA
Summary
Dynamic materials scientist with hands-on experience in thin film deposition and characterization. Proven ability to deliver engaging technical presentations and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Demonstrated strong skills in semiconductor processing and research driving innovation and excellence in materials development.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Student Researcher
Prof. Andrew Kummel Lab
San Diego, USA
01.2026 - 04.2026
- Designed and constructed fully functional atomic layer deposition (ALD) chamber; deposited and optimized TiO₂ thin films, evaluated film quality, thickness, and morphology through surface and materials characterization
- Conducted cleanroom-based thin film fabrication and processing; operated e-beam evaporation and DC sputtering systems to achieve precise film deposition
- Prepared and delivered weekly technical presentations analyzing industry-relevant and peer-reviewed research papers, enhancing understanding of key research topics
Senior Design Capstone Project
Stealth Startup
Davis, USA
09.2024 - 06.2025
- Achieved "Outstanding Senior Design Project" award for innovative work in the Materials Science and Engineering Department
- Designed, developed, and led materials selection for DBD, ensuring compatibility and performance in semiconductor processing
- Oversaw project budgeting, cost management, and inventory to align expenditures with financial constraints and project objectives
Undergraduate Researcher
Prof. Roopali Kukreja Lab
Davis, USA
07.2024 - 06.2025
- Characterized magnetic properties of FeMnCoNi thin films with varying Fe concentrations using advanced instrumentation (VSM, magnetron sputtering) to support research objectives.
- Analyzed trends in zero field cooling, field cooling, and X-Ray Magnetic Circular Dichroism (XMCD) graphs, comparing thin films to bulk materials to aid in developing high-performance magnetic applications.
- Trained graduate and undergraduate students in lab safety protocols and VSM operation, enhancing laboratory competence and safety compliance.
Undergraduate Researcher
Prof. Yayoi Takamura Lab
Davis, USA
12.2022 - 06.2025
- Presented findings at the APS March Meeting 2024 in Minneapolis and URC UC Davis 2024, showcasing "Determining Antiferromagnetic Moment Orientations from Domain Images using Pixel-by-Pixel Analysis" on LSFO/LSMO thin films to advance spintronic device development
- Collaborated with PhD student to develop Python algorithm for analyzing PEEM domain images, improving identification of antiferromagnetic material domains and Néel vector orientations, contributing to advancements in spintronic research
Education
Master of Science - Materials Science and Engineering
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, CA06-2026
Bachelor of Science - Materials Science And Engineering
University of California, Davis
Davis, CA06-2025
Skills
- Thin film deposition
- Materials characterization
- Data analysis
- Technical presentation
- Team collaboration
- Attention to detail
Timeline
Graduate Student Researcher
Prof. Andrew Kummel Lab
01.2026 - 04.2026
Senior Design Capstone Project
Stealth Startup
09.2024 - 06.2025
Undergraduate Researcher
Prof. Roopali Kukreja Lab
07.2024 - 06.2025
Undergraduate Researcher
Prof. Yayoi Takamura Lab
12.2022 - 06.2025
Master of Science - Materials Science and Engineering
University of California, San Diego
Bachelor of Science - Materials Science And Engineering
University of California, Davis