Agentic AI for Surface Science: A Hands-On Tutorial

Maxim Ziatdinov (PNNL), Sarah Allec (PNNL), Semanti Mukhopadhyay (PNNL)

This tutorial will introduce participants to AI agent, teach them to run agent-driven analyses on representative surface-science and microscopy data-sets, connect analysis outputs to planning (including selecting the next experiment), and bridging experiments to theory. Participants will gain practical skills in natural language-based (vs coding) prompting strategies for low-to-no code AI-assisted software development.

How to Use AI to Vibe Code and Build a Scientific 
Machine Learning Workflow from Scratch

Derek T. Anderson (Univ. of Missouri), Matthias J. Young (University of Missouri), Matthew R. Maschmann (Univ. of Missouri)

This hands-on tutorial will provide an accessible introduction to machine learning methods for attendees with no-to-low prior coding experience, providing a practical “vibe coding” approach to building applied AI workflows for materials and surface science domains. Participants will learn the basics of machine learning and how to use LLM-assisted code development to construct data ingestion, preprocessing, model training, evaluation, and visualization pipelines while maintaining scientific rigor.

Introduction to Atomic-Scale Processing:

ALD, ALE, and Beyond

Erwin Kessels (Eindhoven Univ.)

This tutorial will introduce the basic concepts of atomic-scale processing, with a focus on atomic layer deposition (ALD), atomic layer etching (ALE), and related surface-controlled methods. It will address the surface chemistry that underpins these processes, as well as the plasma-surface interactions involved in plasma-enhanced approaches.

Introduction to Vacuum Technology

Freek Molkenboer (TNO), Keith Middleman (STFC Daresbury Lab) and Giulia Lanza (SLAC)

This tutorial will introduce newcomers to the basics of vacuum technology and cover how pumping systems work and how vacuum levels are measured. Practical examples will show how vacuum environments support modern technologies, including a brief look at ultra‑clean vacuum and why it matters for areas like EUV lithography.

ADDITIONAL TRAINING OPPORTUNITY: From Monday-Thursday there will also be a full-day Fundamental of Vacuum Technology Short Course.