Prof awarded first federal patent in YSU history

SEE ALSO: YSU faculty contract remains in limbo

By DENISE DICK

denise_dick@vindy.com

YOUNGSTOWN

A Youngstown State University physics professor achieved a first for the university: a federal patent.

“This is a huge day,” YSU President Jim Tressel said at a news conference Thursday in Ward Beecher Hall. “This is so important in the history of Youngstown State University. Part of our duty is the discovery of knowledge. We’re counted upon by the populous to do that.”

The patent awarded to Tom Oder is for a method that improves the reliability and performance of semiconductor devices. It has

applications in the automotive and aerospace industries as well as in deep-well drilling and electronic devices such as cellphones and computers.

What’s in most electronics is made of silicone, but that material can’t withstand high temperatures. It must be cooled or it will fail. Odor’s research involves ways to improve the reliability of semiconductors at high temperatures and high voltages.

“I am deeply honored to be the first one to receive a patent at YSU,” Oder said. “This is a result of the grace and favor of God on the hard work that we have been engaged in at YSU. For these, I must acknowledge the support of my family and colleagues in the Department of Physics and Astronomy.”

He also pointed to William Sturrus, department chairman, and Martin Abraham, dean of the College of Science of Technology, Engineering and Technology, for their support.

YSU students — from physics and mechanical, electrical and chemical engineering — also participated in the research.

Oder has received more than $700,000 in grants from the National Science Foundation to support his research at YSU.

Abraham, YSU’s interim provost and vice president for academic affairs designee, said the patent is significant accomplishment for YSU and for Oder, who has been working on the research for 10 years.

It shows that YSU is serious about conducting research with practical applications, he said.

“It’s a reflection of our commitment to moving toward becoming a research university,” Abraham said.

Oder’s research dates back to his days as a graduate student at Auburn University and a post-doctoral research associate at Kansas State University. Back then, though, he didn’t have the time to commit to the work.

He joined the YSU faculty in 2003, and Peter Kasvinsky, then-dean of the College of Graduate Studies and Research, spoke to him about patenting his discoveries.

Oder is waiting to learn whether he’s secured a second patent for another material.

He earned his bachelor’s degree from Makerere University in Uganda, a master’s at St. Andrew’s in Scotland and his doctorate from Auburn.