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Tohoku University President Hideo Ohno has received an honorary doctorate from the University of York in recognition of his research achievements in the fields of spintronics and semiconductors.

He received the award on February 8 at the University of York's degree conferment ceremony for the School of Physics, Engineering and Technology.

In his speech, President Ohno thanked the university for the honour and for "the privilege of collaborating with many colleagues here in York." He also acknowledged the support of his family, as well as his colleagues and students at Tohoku University "who have shaped my career and my life."

He then encouraged everyone present at the ceremony to apply their research and knowledge towards building a better future. "I view this honour as both a recognition of my achievements and a call to duty," he said. "This sentiment extends to all the graduates and alumni here today. Together we have a responsibility to leverage our knowledge and skills to contribute to a better world."

On the morning before the ceremony, President Ohno also gave a lecture on "Spintronics for Green Society and Beyond," to some 40 faculty members and students from the Physical Properties and Materials Research Group of the School of Physics and Engineering.

He spoke on the development of energy-efficient magnetic memory technology (MRAM), as well as research on probabilistic and brain-inspired computing based on magnetic tunnel junction devices.

Tohoku University and the University of York are longtime academic partners. In addition to frequent student exchanges through the popular Study Abroad Programme, the two universities also engage in extensive collaborative research activities such as the joint York-Tohoku spintronics symposia.

President Ohno's two-day visit to the University of York also included a private meeting with Vice-Chancellor and President Charlie Jeffery.

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