Timothy Spila

Timothy Spila is a Senior Research Scientist at the Materials Research Laboratory (MRL) of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering (2001) and a B.S. in Engineering Science from Pennsylvania State University (1992). His research focuses on materials characterization, thin film growth, and surface analysis techniques such as X-ray scattering and secondary ion mass spectrometry. He served as Interim Director of MRL Central Research Facilities and has extensive experience in semiconductor and superconductor thin films, lithium-ion battery materials, and wear-resistant materials.

Education:

• Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois (2001)
• B.S., Engineering Science, Pennsylvania State University (1992)

Research Interests: Spila’s work emphasizes the interplay between surface morphology and material properties. He investigates thin film growth mechanisms using advanced techniques like molecular beam epitaxy and magnetron sputtering. His projects include developing high-capacity battery materials and analyzing surface coatings for friction reduction. He also explores the application of X-ray scattering and secondary ion mass spectrometry in material analysis.

Labs & Facilities: He is affiliated with MRL’s Core Facilities specializing in Scanning Probe Microscopy, Surface Analysis, and X-ray Analysis. These facilities enable high-resolution material characterization critical to his research.