2024 MRS Fall Meeting & Exhibit
Women in Materials Science & Engineering Keynote Breakfast Talk
Tuesday, December 3
7:00 am – 8:30 am
Sheraton, 2nd Floor, Constitution B
Karen Lozano
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Leading with Purpose—How Materials Science Can Shape Futures and Communities
Abstract
This presentation will explore our mission to make a profound impact at a former teaching institution in an underserved community. We will highlight the synergy between high-tech research projects and educational initiatives. Our commitment to making a difference has led to a dynamic transformation from a purely teaching-focused institution to the development of the first PhD program in the College of Engineering and Computer Science—a Materials Science and Engineering program. This program marks a significant milestone in our journey toward achieving R1 status and furthering academic excellence and community transformation.
We will delve into the profound impact of research-driven activities within a teaching institution. The presentation will feature groundbreaking advancements in the Forcespinning technique and innovative approaches to customizing the structural, electrical, thermal, catalytic and optical properties of nanofiber systems. Integrating advanced research with our educational mission has not only pushed the boundaries of materials science but also empowered our students to envision and achieve greater heights. Our approach transforms individual lives and, collectively, strengthens our community.
Join us to explore how materials science, driven by purpose and innovation, is shaping futures and communities. Discover how we are turning challenges into opportunities and fostering a culture of success and inclusivity, one student at a time.
People from all backgrounds in materials science are encouraged to attend this discussion and complimentary breakfast.
Advance sign-up is required. A limited number of seats are available. Please join us for an enjoyable and engaging presentation.
Biography
Karen Lozano is the Julia Beecherl Endowed Mechanical Engineering Professor at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and Founding Director of the UTRGV Nanotechnology Center and PhD program of the College of Engineering and Computer Science (PhD program launched in the Fall of 2023 and first in the College of Engineering). Since 2000, Lozano has creatively combined undergraduate (UG) education with state-of-the-art research projects. Through strategically designed projects and work environment, she has driven an exciting educational/social/economic mobility experience for hundreds of at-risk students, all now leading successful careers in industry, academia or government labs.
She has determinedly led a far-reaching transformation at a once, non-PhD teaching institution. Her efforts have led to 100% retention and graduation rates for over 500 students working on her NanoTeam. She has successfully opened a pathway to graduate school; over 50 students from her team have pursued PhD degrees in Engineering.
Lozano is the recipient of several honors such as member of the National Academy of Engineering, U.S. Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM), Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors, TEDx Speaker, and Engineer of the Year by Great Minds in STEM.
Lozano’s team, composed primarily of UG students, has published >175 peer reviewed scientific journal articles and >500 proceedings/conference presentations. She is a prolific inventor, and has co-founded two companies, one of which received international awards such as the R&D 100. Her technology coined Forcespinning® is leading industrial production of nanofibers. She outreaches to thousands of K–16 students through summer camps, magic/science shows, and social media. Lozano received a Lone Star EMMY Award for the developed Energy & U TV film.
She earned her BS degree in mechanical engineering from Universidad de Monterrey (UDEM) and MS and PhD degrees from Rice University.
Sponsored, in part, by
