Fall/Winter 2024
The JPM Research Group: Revolutionizing tomorrows materials today
The JPM Research Group at Penn State, led by Jon-Paul Maria, professor of materials science and engineering, continues to be at the forefront of research, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. The group’s pioneering work in not just one, but two, significant areas of research entropy-stabilized ceramics and a new class of ferroelectrics, built on shattering a seventy-five-year-old belief on the limits of ferroelectrics—has established entirely new families of materials and functionalities.
The group is a supportive community of undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scholars, who work together on cutting-edge research projects. They specialize in the synthesis, characterization, and application of advanced materials for computer processing and energy storage, for infrared light detection and emission, for future quantum information science applications, and for stability under extreme environments. Read more
Penn State launches Silicon Carbide Innovation Alliance
Silicon Carbide Innovation Alliance to drive industrial-scale semiconductor work 
Known for its ability to withstand extreme environments and high voltages, silicon carbide (SiC) is a semiconducting material made up of silicon and carbon atoms arranged into crystals that is increasingly becoming essential to modern technologies like electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, telecommunications infrastructure and microelectronics.
To advance the potential of this semiconductor, Penn State recently launched the Silicon Carbide Innovation Alliance (SCIA), a coalition of industry leaders, academic institutions and government support with a focus on becoming the nation's central hub for research, development and workforce training in silicon SiC crystal technology. Read more
Penn State, Morgan Advanced Materials partner to improve semiconductor materials 
Penn State and Morgan Advanced Materials have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to catalyze research and development of silicon carbide, known as SiC, a semiconductor material that operates more efficiently at high voltages than competing technologies. This agreement includes a new five-year, multimillion-dollar initiative and a commitment by Morgan to become a founding member of the recently launched Penn State Silicon Carbide Innovation Alliance, as well as to supply the graphite materials and solutions needed for SiC development to Penn State for use by internal and external partners. Read more
Penn State and onsemi partner to boost silicon carbide research in the U.S. 
Penn State and onsemi, a leader in intelligent power and sensing technologies, have announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding toward an $8 million strategic collaboration that includes the establishment of the onsemi Silicon Carbide Crystal Center (SiC3) at Penn State’s Materials Research Institute. Over the next 10 years, onsemi will fund SiC3 with $800,000 per year. Read more
MatSE welcomes Assistant Professor Carlos Lopez
MatSE welcomed Carlos Lopez as a new assistant professor in January.
Lopez’s research focuses on the structure and rheology of various soft matter systems, including polyelectrolyte solutions, poly (ionic liquid) gels, and soft colloidal dispersions.
"I am pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Carlos Lopez to our department," said Susan Sinnott, head and professor of materials science and engineering. Read more
From the Department Head
This spring, MatSE awarded forty-six bachelor of science degrees to a unique group of students—the class of 2024. These were our COVID-19 pandemic students, who missed traditional high school graduation ceremonies and began their college careers during one of the most uncertain times in recent history.
Today’s undergraduate students possess unique skills resulting from their experiences with blended in-person and online education. Many have refined their time management skills, adapted to learning and working in different formats, and have experience in collaborating virtually. From virtual learning platforms to AI-driven tools, they have navigated an ever-evolving digital landscape. These students are passionate about social justice, climate change, and inclusivity. Many have entrepreneurial ambitions, and their ability and drive to innovate set them apart. Mental health awareness has also been a priority to them, and their empathy and compassion stand out. Read more
"Explore your future" video released
MatSE at Penn State is an international leader in materials education and research. As a top-ranked program, the department thrives on a rich collaboration between faculty, staff, students, and researchers to promote a well-rounded academic experience and innovative research opportunities. Our department offers ABET-accredited degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. View video
MatSE 115th Anniversary Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Fund successfully endowed
MatSE is proud to announce that we have achieved our fundraising goal for the 115th Anniversary DEI initiative and the fund will be endowed! With the help of leadership gift commitments from Paul Robertson and Alexandra Lee, Joel and Kim Reed, Larry and Beth Hancock, Melissa and Leif Hockstad, as well as individual contributions from alumni, faculty, and friends, this fund will now exist in perpetuity. Read more