David A. Willis, PhD
Assistant Professor
Southern Methodist University (Department of Mechanical Engineering)

Educational path
· BS, Mechanical Engineering (North Carolina State University)
· MS, PhD, Mechanical Engineering (Purdue University)

Special training for nanotechnology
My graduate studies at Purdue University were in Mechanical Engineering. I pursued a somewhat non-traditional research path in the area of laser microprocessing. My research investigated the use of lasers as a controlled heat source for manufacturing devices with microscopic sizes. I took a variety of classes ranging from traditional subjects like thermodynamics to classes that most people don't associate with mechanical engineering, such as optics and laser theory.

Tips/Advice to jumpstart a career in nanotechnology
There really isn't one path to study nanotechnology, since people from all fields of expertise are needed: engineering, physics, chemistry, biosciences, etc. In fact, most of the nanotechnology experts that you will meet today have degrees in a traditional science or engineering discipline. I would recommend that anyone interested in nanotechnology first find a field of science or engineering that really excites you. A strong foundation in a science or engineering field is a must. But, while you are pursuing study in a particular field, take any extra classes you can find that are related to nanotechnology. Also, the best way to learn nanotechnology is to find a mentor in your field of study that is doing nanotechnology research, and try to get involved in that research.

How did you first get into nanotechnology?
I actually did not start out in nanotechnology and, in fact, nanotechnology was not really a popular buzzword when I began my graduate studies. But, like many people in nanotechnology, I started out in another field and got started in nanotechnology rather indirectly. However, as I mentioned earlier, my training was in laser microprocessing. Since I was already studying how to make microscopic devices, moving into nanotechnology wasn't a big change.

What is it like to work in nanotechnology?
Nanotechnology is exciting in many aspects. There are so many discoveries yet to be made as well as new applications to explore that could benefit from nanotechnology. Nanotechnology has applications to so many areas that impact daily life, from the clothes we wear to the medicines we take to the chips in our computers. Nanotechnology is also exciting and challenging because of the diverse fields of experts that are required. If you attend a nanotechnology conference or work with a nanotechnology company, you will likely be working with people from all walks of life and all types of educational backgrounds.