Seminar Series
How to Engage with Industry to Drive Research Impact
April 3rd, 2026
Speaker:Elizabeth Nelson, MBA, USF Program Director | Florida High Tech Corridor
This session explored how researchers can build mutually beneficial industry partnerships to extend the reach of their work. Participants examined corporate motivations for university collaboration, including access to talent and innovation while learning practical strategies for identifying partners, initiating dialogue, and building long-term trust. Designed for both novices and those with established connections, the presentation provided actionable insights for aligning academic research with industry priorities.
Visual Communication
March 6th, 2026
Speaker: Dr. Joanna Burchfield, Ph.D., Communications Professor, College of Engineering
This seminar focused on the principles of visual design and its role in technical storytelling. NRT trainees learned how to use visual elements effectively to support complex research data in written reports and oral presentations.
Mastering your CAREER Toolkit
February 27th, 2026
Speaker: Dr. Tracy Costello, Ph.D., Director, Postdoctoral Affairs and Graduate Student Development
Dr. Tracy Costello provided intensive career coaching and practical skill-building in this professional development workshop. The session was designed to help NRT trainees identify and take the next definitive steps on their specific career paths.
Verbal & Non-Verbal Communication
February 20th, 2026
Speaker: Dr. Joanna Burchfield, Ph.D., Communications Professor, College of Engineering
This session analyzed the relationship between spoken words and non-verbal cues. NRT trainees learned how to align their physical presence with their verbal messaging to improve teamwork and the clarity of research presentations.
Fostering Futures: Facilitating Graduate Success with IDPs
February 13th, 2026
Speaker: Dr. Tracy Costello, Ph.D., Director, Postdoctoral Affairs and Graduate Student Development
This session introduced the A.C.H.I.E.V.E. framework. NRT trainees developed drafts of Individual Development Plans (IDPs), creating personalized roadmaps for skill development and career advancement while fostering stronger mentor-mentee relationships.
Perspectives in Professional Communication
February 6th, 2026
Speaker: Dr. Joanna Burchfield, Ph.D., Communications Professor, College of Engineering
Focusing on high-level professional interactions, this seminar taught NRT trainees the strategies needed to lead in both academic and industrial settings. Participants applied these concepts to ongoing professional projects to sharpen their leadership skills.
Cultural Dimensions of Communication
January 30th, 2026
Speaker: Dr. Joanna Burchfield, Ph.D., Communications Professor, College of Engineering
This workshop examined the impact of cultural contexts on communication styles and professional relationships. The session prepared NRT Trainees for global citizenship and emphasized effective civic engagement within diverse engineering environments.
Basic Principles of Communication
January 23rd, 2026
Speaker: Dr. Joanna Burchfield, Ph.D., Communications Professor, College of Engineering
The series opened with an exploration of the foundational concepts of professional interaction. NRT trainees established a baseline for leadership competencies, focusing on how fundamental communication principles underlie successful careers in research and industry.
-
Florida’s Role and Opportunities in Microelectronics Manufacturing.
November 21st, 2025
This session will review Florida’s role in the microelectronics manufacturing value chain, particularly the state’s focus on advanced packaging and testing of microelectronics in support of specialized applications in aerospace, defense and medical devices. The session will also outline several recent updates and activities related to the US Department of Commerce CHIPS and CHIPS Research & Development programs at the national level, including recent announcement(s) from the US Investment Accelerator, National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program (NAPMP) and National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC). The presentation will also outline other recent changes and adjustments to federal R&D programs, and discuss the current environment, opportunities and paths for collaboration and engagement as the broader scope of these initiatives continues to evolve. The presentation will also outline existing programs funded at the state and regional level supporting internships at Florida microelectronics companies, R&D funding and other opportunities to continue to grow and engage the pipeline necessary to support the microelectronics industry’s expansion in Florida.
-
The Florida Semiconductor Institute: From Vision to Velocity
November 14th, 2025
This talk will describe how to engage in the vision, mission, and latest activities of the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI). FSI serves as the statewide hub for research, development, and workforce initiatives in semiconductor technologies. Our mission is to drive innovation and technological advancement in the semiconductor industry by executing high-impact research and development programs, educating and training the next generation of talent, and expanding the workforce pipeline. We foster collaboration across academia, industry, and government to strengthen Florida’s vibrant semiconductor industry. We are dedicated to making Florida a global leader in specialty electronics.
-
Creating Your Niche in the Semiconductor Industry: A Practical Pathway to Apply NRT Skills.
November 7th, 2025
The semiconductor industry is a cornerstone of modern technology, driving advancements in electronics, communications, healthcare, and renewable energy. With rapid global growth and increasing demand for skilled professionals, the sector offers a wide range of career opportunities across engineering, design, manufacturing, research, and quality assurance. This presentation explores the dynamic landscape of semiconductor jobs and underscores their relevance to the academic and technical programs offered at USF, NRT. By aligning educational curricula with industry needs — including courses in materials science, microelectronics, business, Industrial engineering, process engineering, and nanotechnology — NRT can equip students with the knowledge and hands-on skills required for success in this high-impact field. This alignment not only enhances employability but also supports regional innovation and economic development through a well-prepared technical workforce.
-
SiC and GaN Power Devices for Next-Generation Applications
October 31st, 2025
The transition to 800 VDC architectures in AI-centric data centers demands power semiconductors with superior efficiency, thermal performance, and reliability. Wide-bandgap technologies—Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Silicon Carbide (SiC)—enable this shift by overcoming the limitations of legacy silicon. SiC trench-assisted planar MOSFETs from Navitas’ GeneSiC™ line offer high-voltage capability (up to 10 kV), low RDS(on) at elevated temperatures, and extended lifetime via AEC-Plus qualification. These devices streamline solid-state transformer (SST) designs for grid-to-DC conversion. GaNFast™ and GaNSafe™ ICs integrate high-speed gate drivers with GaN FETs, supporting MHz switching frequencies and minimizing EMI, conduction, and switching losses. Advanced packaging and matrix transformer topologies further enhance power density and thermal management. Together, these innovations deliver scalable, high-efficiency solutions for multimegawatt rack-level power delivery, redefining the power architecture from grid to GPU in next-generation AI factories.
-
Advances in III-N Materials, Devices, and Thermal Management.
October 24th, 2025
Next generation wide- and ultrawide-bandgap semiconductors such as GaN and AlN are key emerging materials for high performance microelectronic device applications due to the high breakdown field and high mobility, enabling high switching speed and low switching losses. At the system level, this translates to improved size, weight, power consumption, cooling requirements, and system cost (SWaP-C2). In addition, materials are capable of operation in extreme environments such as high temperature (>500C) and radiation environments. This presentation will provide an overview of the current state of materials and device technology as well as discuss technical challenges faced by researchers in the community, including an overview of recent advances in thermal management of GaN high electron mobility transistors and related materials. Topics will include thermal characterization and integration of high thermal conductivity materials, such as diamond, in the fabrication process, status of AlN and GaN substrate and epitaxial growth technologies, and practical processing and reliability challenges in these materials systems.
-
From Representations to Prompts: Understanding the Language of Modern AI.
October 10th, 2025
In today’s AI-driven era, the ability to understand and guide machine learning systems is becoming as essential as traditional technical skills. This workshop explores the science of representation learning—the foundation of how models capture, structure, and use information—and its connection to the emerging practice of prompting. Attendees gain insight into how large language models (LLMs) use learned representations to generate text, reason, and adapt across tasks, and how carefully designed prompts can shape these outcomes. Through interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities, the session provides participants with both conceptual grounding and practical strategies for engaging with modern AI tools. By the end, graduate students will have a deeper appreciation of how representation learning powers today’s AI and how prompting can serve as a bridge between human intent and machine intelligence, with potential applications in areas such as design automation, intelligent monitoring, and advanced manufacturing.
-
From Lab to Fab: Tools, Techniques, and Skills for Thriving in Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing
October 3rd, 2025
In an era of rapid technological advancement, the semiconductor industry demands engineers who can seamlessly transition from academic research to high-stakes manufacturing environments. This talk explores the essential tools and techniques for next-generation semiconductor manufacturing engineers, focusing on bridging the gap between graduate studies and industry roles. Key topics include skills that engineers are encouraged to learn beyond fabrication processes and metrology for nanoscale precision, and the integration of AI and automation for yield optimization. Attendees will gain insights into critical skills like data analysis, process simulation, and sustainable practices, alongside soft skills for collaborative innovation. Drawing on current industry trends, the presentation provides actionable advice for graduate students to build competitive portfolios and prepare for careers in fabs worldwide. Ideal for aspiring engineers seeking to thrive in the $1 trillion semiconductor ecosystem.
-
Semiconductor Industry and Ecosystem for AI Society
September 26th, 2025
Rapid Advances of Artificial intelligence is changing the landscape of industry and thus future lifestyle of human beings. Under the hunger of AI computing hardware and thus high-end semiconductor ICs, in this talk, we will introduce the supply chain of semiconductor industry and its technology advances, then examines the ecosystem of high-tech industry regarding AI, learning models, and big data, robotics, mobile Internet, quantum technologies, and biomedical applications. New technological frontier and opportunities will be deciphered so that engineers can innovate technologies to enrich the lifestyle of future human society.
-
Plasma Dicing: Enabling Advanced 3D Packaging & Heterogeneous Integration
September 19th, 2025
The relentless demand for higher performance, smaller form factors, and greater functional density is driving the semiconductor industry toward advanced 3D packaging and heterogeneous integration. As conventional dicing techniques such as blade and laser struggle to meet the stringent requirements of next-generation packaging, plasma dicing has emerged as a powerful alternative. This talk will explore the principles of plasma dicing, highlighting its unique advantages—including high die strength, narrow kerf widths, debris-free processing, and compatibility with thin and fragile wafers. We will discuss how these benefits directly impact 3D packaging strategies, enabling tighter die-to-die spacing, improved yield, and enhanced reliability in heterogeneous integration schemes. Case studies and recent results will illustrate how plasma dicing not only addresses the limitations of traditional singulation methods but also opens new design opportunities for advanced packaging architectures. The session will conclude with a perspective on future directions, emphasizing plasma dicing’s role as an enabling technology in the roadmap toward chiplet-based and heterogeneous integration.
-
AI for Science: A Spatial Perspective
September 12th, 2025
AI has enriched our lives via trending services (e.g., chatbots, content generators), systems (e.g., robots, self-driving vehicles), tools (e.g., deep learning) and science-acceleration methods (e.g., faster computation, hypothesis generation, laboratory automation), which received 2024 nobel prizes in Physics and Chemistry. National developments include America’s AI Action Plan, National AI Research Resource, National AI Research Institutes, etc. This is just a beginning and many compelling opportunities lie ahead due to growth in Generative AI and Digital Twins, which may allow us to see previously-invisible phenomena and discover previously-unknown knowledge and solve previously-unsolvable problems. However, scientific use-cases pose novel challenges, addressing which will expand the role of AI in science and help drive its future. Based on experiences with a National AI Institute and other large projects, this talk will share a perspective on advancing AI for Science with spatial examples.
-
Semiconductor System for Healthcare Applications: Ultrasonic Powering
September 5th, 2025
Ultrasound has recently been explored as an attractive source of power, especially for deeply seated implantable microdevices. A portion of the externally induced ultrasonic wave is picked up by a small receiver, which energizes the rest of the vital system. While all other components have been advanced and miniaturized, the ultrasonic receiver is still a slab of bulk piezoelectric materials, e.g., dice from PZT (lead zirconate titanate). Such a rectangular or disc shape is not an ideal form factor for wireless power transfer due to many challenges, particularly angular sensitivity with respect to an incoming ultrasonic wave. In this talk, I will discuss our recent work in the first demonstration of omnidirectional ultrasonic powering featuring three-dimensional polyhedral shapes. Based on our 3D printing technique of lead-free piezoelectric barium titanate ceramic, we designed four highly symmetric miniaturized regular polyhedral, known as Platonic solids (i.e., cube, octahedron, dodecahedron), and a sphere. Overall, the proposed ultrasonic powering scheme has the potential to be a transformative solution for many implantable biomedical microdevices.
-
Onshore Advanced Packaging
April 18th, 2025
Dr. Al-Aakhir Rogers, Principal Member of Technical Staff from Draper Lab, discussed the future of Heterogeneous System in Package (HSIP) and the importance of enhancing U.S.-based, secure, and economically viable capabilities to advance critical emerging technologies necessary to protect those who defend our country. Dr. Rogers is an accomplished engineer, scientist, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and thought leader in emerging technology areas and engineering workforce development.
-
Communication Across Contexts & Disciplines
April 11th, 2025
Dr. Joanna Burchfield conducted a Communications Workshop on Communication across Contexts & Disciplines. Trainees applied concepts from previous seminars by creating imagined scenarios to explore how communication varies across settings. Each group delivered a 5–6-minute presentation outlining a communication plan for a specific audience, using frameworks like Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions, and the Transactional Model. They integrated verbal, nonverbal, and visual strategies, supported by tools such as visual aids, enactments, and supplemental materials. The workshop emphasized practical application of theory and collaboration on real-world communication challenges.
-
Denser and Taller: Unveiling the Semiconductor Industry and Your Place in It
March 28th, 2025
Dr. Parshuram Zantye, an esteemed Industry Guest Speaker from Lam Research Corporation, hosted an enlightening seminar titled “Denser and Taller: Unveiling the Semiconductor Industry and Your Place in It” as part of the NRT Microelectronics Series. Dr. Zantye's seminar explored the semiconductor landscape, covering the rapid growth of semiconductor technologies, MOSFETs, and key drivers behind industry advancements. He discussed wafer processing, device manufacturing, cleanroom classification, and wafer fabrication tools. Dr. Zantye also highlighted industry challenges, opportunities, and career pathways.
-
Visual Communication
March 7th, 2025
Dr. Joanna Burchfield conducted a Communications Workshop on Visual Communication. The purpose of the workshop was to help trainees understand that visual communication conveys information, ideas, and emotions through visual elements like images, graphics, videos, symbols, and design. This tool enhances understanding, fosters emotional connections, and improves the clarity and impact of messages across various contexts, including marketing, education, media, and professional settings. Additionally, all trainees delivered a presentation using visual aids, incorporating both verbal and nonverbal communication.
-
Verbal & Nonverbal Communication
February 21st, 2025
Dr. Burchfield conducted a Communications Workshop on Verbal & Nonverbal Communication. The purpose of the workshop was to help trainees understand how verbal and nonverbal communication enable individuals to convey messages, express emotions, and share information effectively. Both forms of communication are crucial for building understanding, fostering relationships, and influencing others in personal, professional, and social settings.
-
Fostering Futures: Facilitating Graduate Success with IDPs
February 14th, 2025
Dr. Tracy Costello hosted a Professional Development Workshop on Fostering Futures: Facilitating Graduate Success with IDPs. All STEP-UP NRT trainees submitted an Individual Development Plan (IDP). Using the A.C.H.I.E.V.E. framework (Assessment, Career goal setting, Habit and mindset cultivation, Individual self-care practices, Educational experiences, Value exploration, and Evaluating progress), participants developed a draft IDP to discuss with their mentors. IDPs are vital tools for graduate students and mentors to set personalized goals, enhance skill development, and guide career growth while fostering accountability and alignment in their relationship.
-
Perspectives in Professional Communication
February 7th, 2025
Dr. Joanna Burchfield conducted a Communications Workshop on Perspectives in Professional Communication. The purpose of this workshop was to help trainees understand the perspectives in professional communication and how to navigate various communication approaches, strategies, and styles essential in professional environments.
-
Cultural Dimensions of Communication
January 31st, 2025
Dr. Joanna Burchfield hosted a Communications Workshop on Cultural Dimensions of Communication. The purpose of the workshop was to help trainees understand the cultural dimensions of communication and explore how cultural differences influence the way people interact and communicate with each other.
-
Basic Principles of Communication
January 24th, 2025
Dr. Joanna Burchfield hosted a Communications Workshop on Basic Principles of Communication. The purpose of the seminar was to help trainees understand the Basic Principles of Communication and how they facilitate effective interaction and information exchange between individuals, groups, or organizations.