Living the Laser Life

Summary

Dr. Masoud Mahjouri Samani, an assistant professor at Auburn University's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, leads cutting-edge research in laser-assisted nano engineering. His work focuses on laser-based synthesis, processing, and characterization of materials, particularly atomically thin quantum materials. With a vision to make Auburn a national hub for laser technology, he aims to advance additive manufacturing and cultivate a skilled workforce for the future. Dr. Samani believes lasers will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of scientific, engineering, and technological breakthroughs.

Takeaways

• 😀 Lasers offer unmatched flexibility, precision, and control in solving engineering and scientific problems.
• 😀 Lasers are increasingly essential in various engineering and technological applications.
• 😀 Masoud Mahjouri Samani is an assistant professor at Auburn University, specializing in laser-assisted nano engineering.
• 😀 The Laser Assisted Nano Engineering Lab focuses on three key research areas: laser-based synthesis, processing, and characterization of materials.
• 😀 Auburn University's lab has a unique capability to synthesize atomically thin quantum materials or two-dimensional materials using lasers.
• 😀 The lab is pioneering in synthesizing quantum materials with lasers, making it a leading institution in this field.
• 😀 In additive manufacturing, one of the key challenges is understanding real-time interactions between lasers and materials, especially powders.
• 😀 The lab is developing advanced techniques to study laser interactions with powders in real-time, a unique approach in the field.
• 😀 Masoud's goal is to establish a world-class laser lab at Auburn University, positioning it as a hub for laser research and applications across the nation.
• 😀 The lab aims to contribute to the development of a skilled workforce by educating students in laser technologies, ensuring they can drive future advancements.
• 😀 Lasers are expected to play a crucial role in the future of science, engineering, and technology, facilitating the transition into new technological eras.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Dr. Masoud Mahjouri Samani's research?

Dr. Masoud Mahjouri Samani's research primarily focuses on laser-assisted nanoengineering, including three major areas: laser-based synthesis, laser-based processing, and laser-based characterization of various materials.

What makes Auburn University’s laser-based research unique?

Auburn University’s laser-based research is unique in its ability to synthesize atomically thin quantum materials, or two-dimensional materials, which is a pioneering capability that Dr. Samani is developing at the university.

How does Dr. Samani’s research contribute to the field of additive manufacturing?

Dr. Samani’s research in additive manufacturing focuses on understanding what happens in real-time when lasers interact with powders during the manufacturing process, using innovative techniques that are being developed at Auburn University.

What is Dr. Samani's goal regarding laser research facilities at Auburn University?

Dr. Samani aims to establish a cutting-edge laser lab at Auburn University, making it a central hub for laser research in Alabama and beyond, with the intention of positioning Auburn as a leader in laser technology.

How does Dr. Samani envision Auburn University’s role in laser research on a national scale?

Dr. Samani envisions Auburn University becoming a laser research hub that serves not only the state of Alabama but also the entire country, contributing to national advancements in laser science and technology.

What does Dr. Samani see as the future of lasers in science and technology?

Dr. Samani believes lasers will be one of the key components driving the future of science, engineering, and technology, playing a vital role in enabling advancements over the next five to ten years and beyond.

How is Dr. Samani contributing to workforce development in the field of laser technology?

Dr. Samani is focused on educating students in laser-based technologies, ensuring they acquire the necessary skills to contribute to the future of laser technology and related fields.

What specific research technique is Dr. Samani developing at Auburn University?

Dr. Samani is developing laser-based techniques to analyze and understand the interaction between lasers and powders in real-time, a unique approach that aims to improve the additive manufacturing process.

Why is the synthesis of quantum materials important in Dr. Samani’s research?

The synthesis of quantum materials is important because these materials, especially atomically thin or two-dimensional materials, have unique properties that can revolutionize various fields, from electronics to energy storage, and are a key area of Dr. Samani’s innovative research.

What is the broader impact of Dr. Samani's research on the scientific community?

Dr. Samani's research has the potential to significantly impact the scientific community by advancing the synthesis and application of quantum materials, improving additive manufacturing processes, and training a skilled workforce that will drive future technological innovations.