Upcoming dates
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I-FMD encourages you to attend our 2026 Materials Symposium - this year's symposium is divided into three themes focused on key national priorities. The sessions will focus on advanced semiconductor and related critical mineral materials, biomaterials, and developing the next generation of materials leaders for the workforce. This full day event will feature three keynote speakers from leading experts in experts in materials science to discuss the cutting-edge of materials research and how their work relates to these broad national challenges. After each keynote, an associated panel discussion with additional experts will commence to provide further unique insights on how universities can best impact these key national priorities. This year the event will co-host a lightning talk session by Lehigh's Bioengineering graduate students, while also featuring the annual poster session by I-FMD graduate students for networking, information exchange, and developing collaborations.
Overview schedule of events (Note that this schedule is subject to change - All events are in STEPS 101 unless otherwise noted)
| 8:00 am | Check-In |
| 8:45 am | Welcome and Introductions |
| 9:00 am | Keynote: Robert Visser, VP of Engineering, Applied Materials |
| 9:35 am | Panel discussion - Advanced semiconductor and critical minerals |
| 10:25 am | Keynote: Michael King, Butcher Professor of Bioengineering & CPRIT Scholar, Rice University |
| 11:00 am | Panel discussion - Biomaterials |
| 11:45 am | Keynote: Nancy Gray, CEO and President, Gordon Research Conferences |
| 12:20 pm | Networking Lunch - Provided (HST L185) |
| 1:15 pm | Bioengineering Graduate Student Flash Talks (STEPS 101) & I-FMD Poster Session (STEPS Lobby) |
| 2:30 pm | Panel discussion - Careers |
| 3:15 pm | Closing Remarks |
