Vladimir Kravtsov, head of the ICTP condensed matter group, recently participated in the sixth edition of the Rencontres du Vietnam. More than 300 scientists from around the world attended the event, which was first launched in 1992. The purpose of the event, which focuses on advanced scientific research in astrophysics and condensed matter physics, is to provide an opportunity for the world’s most eminent researchers in these fields to meet and discuss their work. This year’s conference focused on fundamental research and applications in the burgeoning field of nanotechnology. While at the conference, Kravtsov was among a select group of participants who met Nguyen Minh Triet, president of Vietnam.