In these challenging times, when the world looks to science and technology for solutions, let us recognize and celebrate the vital role of graduate education in materials science and engineering. As a professor and department head of Materials Science and Engineering (MatSE) at Penn State, I am deeply passionate about the importance of graduate education in our field.
I firmly believe that graduate education is the bedrock of our research excellence, and our graduate students contribute significantly to the University's reputation as a leader in materials science. They are the ones who push the boundaries of knowledge, who venture into the unknown, and who often return with groundbreaking discoveries that redefine the possibilities of materials science.
At Penn State, we take pride in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration because materials science does not exist in isolation; it is intertwined with physics, chemistry, biology, and various engineering disciplines. Our graduate programs empower students to work across disciplines, break down academic silos, and address complex challenges. This interdisciplinary approach is a hallmark of our commitment to advancing the field.
A truly vibrant and dynamic field of study, like materials science and engineering, thrives when we embrace the richness of varied perspectives and experiences. Our field's strength lies not only in the knowledge we accumulate but also in the diversity of voices that contribute to this knowledge. Diverse teams bring forth a wide range of ideas and solutions, enabling us to address complex problems more effectively. Our department is committed to nurturing an inclusive community where students from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, can thrive and make valuable contributions. Incorporating diversity and inclusion into graduate education and the scientific community is essential for addressing the complex challenges facing our world and ensuring that materials science and engineering remains at the forefront of innovation.
Graduate education is not a mere academic pursuit; it is the driving force behind the advancements that shape our world. Our graduate students are the architects of a brighter, more sustainable future. I feel privileged to witness their transformative contributions every day, and our department remains dedicated to providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to continue making a profound impact on our field and beyond.
We are!!
Susan B. Sinnott
Professor and Head of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering
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