Process Engineer Emphasizes Research Productivity

Name: Supun Attanayake (he/him)

PhD: Applied Physics, University of South Florida, 2024

What was your main area of research?

I studied how iron oxide types can be used to change the properties in nanostructures. Furthermore, how the structure can be enhanced via such parameters.

What is your current job?

I am a Process Engineer for Intel in Hillsboro, Oregon.

I take part in reasoning and decision making with analysis on semiconductor manufacturing.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I love that I get to employ dynamic decision making.

What is the most important skill you developed or experience you had during your PhD that now helps you in your current position?

Data analysis

How did you build the skills necessary for your current role?

Continuity in publications

How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?

I searched for it.

PhD graduate ➡️ Current position

If someone is interested in a similar role, what would you recommend they start doing now to prepare?

Make sure that you actively contribute and collaborate in research work.

Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia?

I wanted to actively participate in a manufacturing environment (more close to the consumer).

What advice do you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?

Make sure to work hard on your research and publications.

Are there any components of your identity you would like to share, including how they have impacted your journey?

I have kept a sense of optimism with me throughout my journey.