CLSU Chemistry Students and Faculty Complete Research Exchange at Suranaree University of Technology
April 1, 2025
Dr. Sharon E. Lazaro, Head of the Functional Inorganic Materials Laboratory (FIMLab) at Central Luzon State University (CLSU), along with fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Chemistry students Mr. Michael L. Melencio and Ms. Kylla Chloe Manalo, successfully completed a research exchange program at the Molecular Magnetic Materials Laboratory (M³ Lab) of Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
This program, held from February 24 to March 21, 2025, under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. David J. Harding, Ph.D. of SUT, marked the first exchange activity under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between CLSU and SUT.
The M³ Lab is renowned for its pioneering research on Fe(II) and Fe(III) spin crossover systems, developing materials with abrupt spin transitions near room temperature—an area crucial for applications in smart sensors and high-density memory storage. During the exchange, Dr. Lazaro engaged in collaborative research focusing on inorganic synthesis and the chemistry of molecular materials, particularly their potential applications in agriculture and environmental sustainability.
Meanwhile, Mr. Melencio and Ms. Manalo conducted experimental procedures involving the synthesis and characterization of chiral iron, copper, and cobalt complexes, which form the core of their undergraduate theses. Ms. Manalo described the exchange as a “highly enriching experience” that significantly strengthened her skills in experimental procedures and materials characterization. “At SUT, I had the privilege of working in a modern and well-equipped laboratory, which exposed me to advanced scientific equipment and techniques that are crucial for characterizing coordination complexes and magnetic materials,” she said. Through access to high-precision instruments such as NMR, IR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, she was able to apply theoretical knowledge in real laboratory conditions and develop a more critical and precise approach to analyzing experimental data.
Looking ahead, Ms. Manalo expressed her intention to share the techniques and knowledge she gained with the wider CLSU Chemistry community. She also hopes to inspire more students to participate in international research exchange programs. “These partnerships not only sharpen our skills but also expand our perspectives as young scientists. Bringing back this knowledge will definitely contribute to strengthening CLSU’s research capacity and global collaborations.”
The successful completion of the exchange program marks a significant step in CLSU’s commitment to global academic engagement and research excellence, fostering innovation and collaboration across borders.
This program, held from February 24 to March 21, 2025, under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. David J. Harding, Ph.D. of SUT, marked the first exchange activity under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between CLSU and SUT.
The M³ Lab is renowned for its pioneering research on Fe(II) and Fe(III) spin crossover systems, developing materials with abrupt spin transitions near room temperature—an area crucial for applications in smart sensors and high-density memory storage. During the exchange, Dr. Lazaro engaged in collaborative research focusing on inorganic synthesis and the chemistry of molecular materials, particularly their potential applications in agriculture and environmental sustainability.
Meanwhile, Mr. Melencio and Ms. Manalo conducted experimental procedures involving the synthesis and characterization of chiral iron, copper, and cobalt complexes, which form the core of their undergraduate theses. Ms. Manalo described the exchange as a “highly enriching experience” that significantly strengthened her skills in experimental procedures and materials characterization. “At SUT, I had the privilege of working in a modern and well-equipped laboratory, which exposed me to advanced scientific equipment and techniques that are crucial for characterizing coordination complexes and magnetic materials,” she said. Through access to high-precision instruments such as NMR, IR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, she was able to apply theoretical knowledge in real laboratory conditions and develop a more critical and precise approach to analyzing experimental data.
Looking ahead, Ms. Manalo expressed her intention to share the techniques and knowledge she gained with the wider CLSU Chemistry community. She also hopes to inspire more students to participate in international research exchange programs. “These partnerships not only sharpen our skills but also expand our perspectives as young scientists. Bringing back this knowledge will definitely contribute to strengthening CLSU’s research capacity and global collaborations.”
The successful completion of the exchange program marks a significant step in CLSU’s commitment to global academic engagement and research excellence, fostering innovation and collaboration across borders.
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