Arturo Ayón

Arturo Ayón is a Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), within the College of Sciences. He serves as the Founding Director of the MEMS Research Laboratory, established in 2004, and leads a dynamic research program in micro- and nanotechnology with applications in energy, healthcare, and environmental monitoring.

Dr. Ayón earned his Ph.D. and M.S. in Nuclear Science and Engineering from Cornell University and a B.S. in Electronic Engineering from Universidad de Guadalajara, Mexico. His educational background laid the foundation for his interdisciplinary research in advanced materials and device engineering.

His research interests include materials science of thin films, metamaterials, photovoltaics, sensors, microdevices, quantum dots, plasmonics, smart fabrics for energy harvesting, microfluidics, and wireless monitoring systems. His work emphasizes innovation in functional materials and the development of real-world devices such as wearable health monitors and environmental sensors.

Although specific recent publications are not listed, his lab's continuous output in patents, student projects, and funded research indicates sustained activity in applied physics and engineering, particularly in MEMS/NEMS, energy conversion, and biomedical devices.

• NASA STTR Phase I Award (2012)
• NASA STTR Phase II Award (2013)
• 1st Place, $100K Student Technology Venture Competition (2008)
• 1st Place, $100K Student Technology Venture Competition (2014)

Dr. Ayón has mentored numerous graduate and undergraduate students, many of whom have contributed to patented technologies and competition-winning innovations. His lab has received funding from agencies including the NSF, ARO, AFOSR, ARL, and AFRL, and collaborates with institutions across the U.S. and Mexico. He also facilitated a major equipment donation from Sony Semiconductor, enhancing student training in micro/nanofabrication.

The MEMS Research Laboratory under his leadership focuses on translating research into prototypes, including the Wireless Baby Vitals Monitor, Self-Contained CPAP Mask, Chemical Sensor on a Robotic Platform, and real-time roof load sensors. The lab emphasizes intellectual property generation, student entrepreneurship, and hands-on experience in cleanroom fabrication and device testing.