Santa Barbara, California, United States
PhD student in Electrical and Computer Engineering (Photonics & Electronics) at UC Santa Barbara with a background in Physics and Chemistry. I am interested in neuromorphic computing, silicon photonics, and novel materials for next-generation computing systems. My research experience spans CERN, Brookhaven National Laboratory, UC San Diego, and Cal Poly, where working across disciplines has strengthened my ability to connect theory, experiment, and applied research.
PhD research in Electrical and Computer Engineering (Photonics & Electronics), supported by UCSB's Chancellor's Doctoral Fellowship, focusing on neuromorphic computing and integrated photonic systems. Current work involves phase-change materials (VO₂), silicon photonics, and nano-optical components for neuromorphic vision and computing applications. Experience includes optical and optoelectronic characterization, investigation of optical interconnect architectures, and the design, simulation, and testing of integrated photonic devices. Research is conducted in collaboration with academic and industrial partners, including UC San Diego and Hewlett Packard Labs.
Polymeric Materials Research (Dr. Shanju Zhang): Explored liquid crystal alignment in conjugated polymers and its effect on dual (ionic-electronic) conductivity. Designed experiments and used advanced techniques like UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, polarized optical microscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for characterization. Coded models for electronic and ionic conductivity, integrating circuit analysis and electrochemical theory. Secured funding through grant proposals, led the research team for three years, and trained graduate and undergraduate students. Presented findings at national conferences and prepared a manuscript for publication. Computational Nuclear Physics (Dr. Jennifer Klay): Simulated the efficiency of the Fast Interaction Trigger detector in CERN's ALICE experiment using Monte Carlo methods (Pythia) and ROOT software. Modeled particle interactions and evaluated the impact of detector geometrical design on performance. Expanded understanding of high-energy particle physics and modern challenges in the field. Atomic Force Microscopy (Dr. Gregory Scott): Investigated the elasticity of hydrogels and new polymeric materials using force-distance curves from contact atomic force microscopy (AFM). Developed computational tools to calculate Young’s modulus via the Oliver-Pharr model, streamlining data analysis. Collaborated on designing experimental methodologies and contributed to the advancement of polymer characterization techniques.
Designed and carried out experiments proving the efficacy of the mixed ionic-electronic conductivity in conjugated polymers under the mentorship of Dr. Shanju Zhang. Disseminated findings through an oral presentation at a university wide conference.
Monitored data quality and operated detectors in the ALICE control room during proton-proton collision experiments at CERN's Large Hadron Collider. Gained in-depth knowledge of detector systems and their integration into the ALICE experiment, contributing to the smooth operation and accuracy of data collection. Collaborated with an international team of researchers to ensure high-quality experimental results and troubleshoot technical issues in real-time. Developed a comprehensive understanding of the operational mechanics of the Large Hadron Collider and its role in advancing particle physics research.
Collaborated with Q-MEEN-C (Quantum-Materials for Energy Efficient Neuromorphic Computing) under mentorship of Dr. Alex Frano. Assisted in the design of a novel synaptic-type device, exploiting quantum material properties such as hydrogenation and helium irradiation with the purpose of building a self- sufficient neuromorphic neural network. Explored simulations to test device performance and parametrize charge distribution control factors. Outlined methodology for preliminary device fabrication testing. Researched and advised on the implementation of theoretical neuroscience in the field of neuromorphic computing.