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Engineering Innovations

Engineering Innovations

Written by: Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering
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About this listen

"Engineering Innovations," the official podcast of Purdue University’s Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, lives at the intersection of where the physical meets the virtual.

In each episode, we sit down with our faculty members who are persistently pursuing their next giant leap. Explore the fascinating world of their cutting-edge research, unravel the mysteries of advanced technologies, and gain insight into the transformative projects that are revolutionizing the field.

Whether you're a seasoned professional, a curious student, or simply a tech-enthusiastic, "Engineering Innovations" promises to spark your curiosity and inspire a passion for the endless possibilities within electrical and computer engineering.

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Episodes
  • Unveiling the Complex Web of Software Security
    Dec 17 2025

    Unpacking Software Supply Chain Security with Dr. Santiago Torres Arias

    Hosted and produced by Kristin Malavenda

    In this episode of Engineering Innovations, host Kristin Malavenda speaks with Dr. Santiago Torres Arias, an assistant professor at Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. The discussion examines the complexities and importance of software supply chain security, exploring the various risks and vulnerabilities present in the modern digital landscape. Dr. Torres Arias shares insights about his research projects, including the in toto framework and the Sigstore project, both designed to protect the integrity of software throughout its development and distribution. He also touches on the interplay between cybersecurity and everyday software use, the role of machine learning, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling these challenges. Finally, they discuss practical advice for both consumers and students in the field of cybersecurity.

    00:00 Introduction to Engineering Innovations Podcast

    00:58 Understanding the Software Supply Chain

    01:52 Dr. Santiago Torres Arias' Journey into Cybersecurity

    03:06 The Importance of Cybersecurity in Everyday Life

    08:07 In Toto: Securing the Software Development Lifecycle

    13:53 The Role of Open Source in Software Security

    15:54 Exploring the Evolution of Letters and Software Security

    16:29 Introduction to Applied Cryptography

    17:47 AI and Machine Learning in Supply Chain Security

    19:32 Balancing Technology Use and Security Awareness

    20:52 Future Challenges in Supply Chain Security

    21:55 Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Research

    23:26 Choosing Academia Over Industry

    24:37 Qualities of a Good Research Student

    25:53 Embracing Failure in Engineering

    27:15 A Journey into Engineering

    28:27 The Creative Side of Engineering

    29:06 Personal Hobbies and Decompression

    29:49 Conclusion and Farewell

    Purdue ECE: http://engineering.purdue.edu/ECE

    Facebook: http://facebook.com/purdueece

    X: https://x.com/PurdueECE

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/purdue.ece

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/purdue-ece

    Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, founded in 1888, is one of the largest ECE departments in the nation and is consistently ranked among the best in the country.

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    30 mins
  • What Makes 2D Materials a Game-Changer for Future Electronics?
    Nov 19 2025

    Exploring the Future of Electronics with 2D Materials

    In this episode of Engineering Innovations, host Kristin Malavenda welcomes Dr. Joerg Appenzeller, the Barry M. and Patricia L. Epstein Professor at Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Dr. Zeller shares his journey from studying physics in Germany to joining Purdue, delving into his fascinating research on two-dimensional (2D) materials. These materials, which are just one atom thick, have potential applications in transistors, memory, and interconnects, promising to revolutionize electronics. Dr. Zeller explains the unique properties of 2D materials, their advantages over traditional materials like silicon, and their expected adoption timeline. Additionally, he discusses the importance of interdisciplinary work, students' involvement in innovative research, and the hands-on training provided at Purdue. Tune in to learn how these groundbreaking materials could shape the future of technology.

    Hosted and produced by Kristin Malavenda

    00:00 Introduction to Engineering Innovations Podcast

    01:01 Meet Dr. Yorg Zeller: From Germany to Purdue

    05:16 Understanding 2D Materials

    07:37 Graphene and Its Impact

    09:21 Applications of 2D Materials in Electronics

    12:35 Challenges and Future of 2D Materials

    20:39 Student Involvement and Research

    30:48 Career Paths and Personal Insights

    36:42 Reflecting on Teaching and Student Engagement

    38:07 Introduction to Engineering Innovations Podcast

    01:01 Journey to Purdue and Research in 2D Materials

    05:16 Understanding 2D Materials and Their Applications

    09:21 Challenges and Future of 2D Materials

    20:39 Student Involvement and Research Impact

    30:48 Career Paths and Personal Insights

    35:01 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

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    35 mins
  • How Is Wireless Charging Technology Transforming Transportation?
    Oct 15 2025

    Revolutionizing Electric Vehicles: Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer and the Future of the Grid

    In this episode of Engineering Innovations, host Kristin Malavenda discusses cutting-edge research on dynamic wireless power transfer technology for electric vehicles with Professor Dionysios Aliprantis from Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. The conversation explores how this technology, which enables electric vehicles to charge while driving, can help create greener highways and a more resilient energy system. Professor Aliprantis shares his journey into electrical and computer engineering, inspired by his father and uncle, and highlights the challenges and potential of dynamic wireless power transfer, particularly for heavy-duty trucks. The discussion also touches on the Grid of Tomorrow consortium, which aims to advance the electric grid and develop skilled engineers. Practical insights into the test bed for the technology and future projections for its implementation on highways are shared, along with the broader economic and environmental benefits. Kristin and Professor Aliprantis wrap up by discussing the importance of mentorship and the impact of engineering work on everyday life.

    00:00 Introduction to Engineering Innovations

    00:51 Meet Professor Deis: A Journey in Electrical Engineering

    05:14 Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer Explained

    10:29 The Future of Electrified Highways

    18:26 Grid of Tomorrow Consortium

    23:09 Mentorship and Personal Insights

    28:25 Conclusion and Farewell

    Purdue ECE: http://engineering.purdue.edu/ECE

    Facebook: http://facebook.com/purdueece

    X: https://x.com/PurdueECE

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/purdue.ece

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/purdue-ece

    Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, founded in 1888, is one of the largest ECE departments in the nation and is consistently ranked among the best in the country.

    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
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