Frederick E. Spada

Fred Spada is an Associate Research Scientist at the Center for Magnetic Recording Research (CMRR) at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). He holds a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from UCSD (1983) and previously worked at Eastman Kodak Research Laboratories (1983–1989). His research focuses on secure data erasure via bulk degaussing methods, structure-property relationships in magnetic materials (thin films and nanoparticles), and chemical aspects of wear. His work spans magnetic recording media, nanomaterial synthesis, and surface characterization.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry, UCSD, 1983

Research Interests:

• Evaluation and standardization of bulk degaussing techniques
• Magnetic material properties (anisotropy, magnetoresistance, phase transformations)
• Nanoparticle synthesis via spark erosion
• Surface treatments for enhanced magnetic performance

Recent Research Trends: Recent publications emphasize secure data erasure in solid-state drives and high-density storage media, alongside continued exploration of magnetic thin films and nanomaterial characterization. His work bridges fundamental material science with applied technologies in data storage and magnetic devices.

Awards & Grants: No scientific awards listed. Active in collaborative research with industry partners like Eastman Kodak and academic institutions.

Lab & Team: Leads CMRR research group with lab assistant Joanne Shin, focusing on magnetic materials and data security applications.