Kanya Maha Vidyalaya (KMV), an iconic institution with a 140-years legacy of academic brilliance, has always been dedicated to providing exceptional opportunities to its students, encouraging them to pursue research and innovation. Recognized as a Heritage Institution by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, India, KMV ensures that students are equipped with the tools and resources needed to excel in their academic and professional endeavors. The P.G. Department of Physics, under the visionary leadership of Principal, Prof. Dr. Atima Sharma Dwivedi, embodies this commitment to excellence. Her constant motivation and unwavering support inspire students to push boundaries, engage in cutting-edge research, and carve successful academic paths.

Recently, final-year master’s students of the P.G. Department of Physics—Nandita Thakur, Harmeet Kaur, Priya, and Simranjeet Kaur—had the privilege of attending a two-days hands-on instrumentation training program at the University Science Instrumentation Centre (USIC), Delhi University, from 17^th to 18^th March, 2025. This enriching workshop enabled students to explore advanced instrumentation techniques and their applications in scientific research.The program holds immense relevance for the academic subject of Material Science, providing students with the unique chance to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications by observing sophisticated instruments in operation.

On the first day of the program, the students were introduced to various analytical instruments and techniques through detailed tutorials. The session commenced with an in-depth explanation of Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) focusing on studying the thermal properties of materials. This was followed by a session on Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), where the students learned about its components, working principles, and sample preparation methods. Subsequently, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) was introduced, providing insights into its role in material characterization. Post-lunch, students were acquainted with the BET Surface Area Analyzer, a technique used to determine surface area and pore size in solids, and Single Crystal XRD, which helps analyze the three-dimensional atomic structure of materials.

The second day of the program delved deeper into hands-on analysis and practical applications. Under the guidance of experts, the students worked on samples prepared for analysis using UV-VIS-NIR Spectrometer, DSC, and BET Surface Area Analyzer. They also participated in an insightful session on Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), where high-energy plasma was explained as a method for ionizing samples to identify elements. Session on Dielectric Spectroscopy and its use in studying the electrical properties of materials was conducted. Another fascinating session on the Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM)included details on its working principles, sample preparation, and image analysis. Additionally, the students had the chance to explore sophisticated Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) equipment, an advanced technique employed for molecular structure analysis, highlighting its precision and relevance in scientific research. The students were also introduced to Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) to study magnetic properties, Photoluminescence (PL) techniques for solids, and Up/Down Conversion techniques for liquids.The program concluded with a group photograph alongside the Director of USIC, Delhi University, Dr. S. Murugavel, marking the end of an inspiring and knowledge-filled journey.

This two-day training program at USIC reflects KMV’s relentless pursuit of excellence in academics and research, consistently encouraging its students to achieve milestones in their scholarly journeys. With the P.G. Department of Physics under the able guidance of Prof. Dr. Atima Sharma Dwivedi, KMV continues to pave the way for its students to engage in innovative research and excel in their chosen fields.