Truell W. Hyde, PhD
· Vice Provost for Research
· Director, Center for Astrophysics, Space Physics & Engineering Research
· Professor of Physics
Baylor University

Educational path
· BS, Physics/Mathematics
· MS, Physics
· PhD, Physics

Tips/Advice to jumpstart a career in nanotechnology
As with any career in science, engineering or technology, the best thing a person can do is to take all the math and science they can! Any career (whether it be as a research scientist, an engineer, a technician, or a sales person) requires a strong understanding of the actual science involved. This can only be accomplished through an understanding of the underlying mathematics.

Why did you choose the field of nanotechnology?
I can't truthfully say that I chose a career in nanotechnology. The real truth of the matter is that I actually chose a career in physics. One of the primary reasons I did so is the fact that physics is never boring and ever changing. When I added research in the area of complex plasmas (soon after the experimental part of the field was discovered) I realized that this research would be important in several areas of nanophysics.

How did you first get into nanotechnology?
As I mentioned above, I begin conducting research in a new area of physics now called complex plasma physics. Once I did so, I realized that there were numerous connections with research in the field of nanophysics and begin exploring these as well.

What is it like to work in nanotechnology?
I really enjoy it! Nanophysics impacts everything from the next generation of semiconductors to medical physics and is always on the bleeding edge. It's a blast!