All over the world, Notre Dame faculty are carrying out research and making exciting discoveries. For most, their work would not be possible if not for partnerships with global universities, programs, and individuals. One such example is the research produced by Yamil J. Colón-Rodríguez, Ph.D., assistant professor for the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Notre Dame, in collaboration with a group at University of Santiago, Chile (USACH).

It all started with a tweet. In 2019, Colón-Rodríguez came across a post from Felipe Herrera—a professor at USACH and an expert in the field of quantum optics—sharing that he was working on computational and experimental optical characterization of metal-organic frameworks. Interested in the topic, Colón-Rodríguez reached out to Herrera over email to see if he’d be open to collaborating. He then flew out to Chile and spent two weeks discussing with Herrera and his group how they could work together, and from there, continued the collaborative research virtually. “His expertise in quantum optics combined with our expertise in metal-organic frameworks has resulted in a fruitful collaboration,” shares Colón-Rodríguez.

Fruitful, indeed—the resulting paper from their research was recently accepted and published in a journal that shares cutting-edge research on the development and application of materials for all quantum-enabled technologies and devices. An exciting outcome, successful collaborative research like Colón-Rodríguez’s is one of many instances of thriving Notre Dame partnerships happening in Chile.

Chile has been the home for research in a number of disciplines over the years—including sociology, theology, and fine arts. Since the 1970s, with the instrumental help of the Kellogg Institute for International Studies and the Center for Civil and Human Rights, Notre Dame Santiago has been developing both academic and service partnerships, strategically building a network for faculty and staff to use. One key partnership is with UC Chile (formerly the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile or PUC)—one of the top Catholic, research universities in Latin America. This strong relationship, and the presence of Notre Dame Santiago right on UC Chile’s San Joaquin campus, allows for student and faculty exchanges, shared research, sabbatical opportunities, internships, and several dual Ph.D. programs. For those looking for unique opportunities to work with partners who share Notre Dame's goals and values, Santiago makes an excellent choice.

If you’re interested in going to Santiago or want to learn more about Notre Dame’s presence in Chile, reach out to the program managers or visit the Notre Dame Santiago website.

Originally published by Jessie Carson at santiago.nd.edu on September 06, 2024.