Jingshan S. Du

In high school, I was fascinated by astronomy and used telescopes to gaze at the vast cosmos. Now, as a materials scientist, I use electron microscopes to explore the tiny realm of atoms and molecules. Studying the nanoscale is not only a way to satisfy our curiosity, but also a means to create new technologies that can improve our lives. We are on an exciting journey to the frontiers of science and innovation, and hopefully, we will reach them with compassion and not conflict.

This MRS Advances special issue will highlight recent advances in the crystallization and assembly of atoms, molecules, and particles at interfaces, with a particular focus on mechanistic approaches developed to understand the underlying pathways for materials design and development. New results in the thermodynamics, kinetics, and evolution pathways of interfacial crystallization and assembly will be particularly encouraged.

Frontiers for Young Minds believes that the best way to make cutting-edge science discoveries available to younger audiences is to enable young people and scientists to work together to create articles that are both top quality and exciting. We are committed to providing high-quality, plain-language articles about cutting-edge science. Researchers have a chance to reframe their own recent research and publications into language that can be understood by a younger audience. Authors need to respond to and integrate the feedback provided by their Young Reviewers.