Nian X. Sun

Nian X. Sun is the COE Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Bioengineering at Northeastern University, directing the W.M. Keck Laboratory for Integrated Ferroics. He holds affiliations in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and leads the Advanced Materials and Microsystems Laboratory. With a PhD from Stanford University, his career includes roles at IBM and Hitachi Global Storage Technologies. Recognized as an IEEE Fellow, APS Fellow, and NAI Fellow, his research focuses on magnetic materials, multiferroic microsystems, and biomedical sensors for disease detection (e.g., Alzheimer’s, diabetes). He has authored over 280 publications, secured 30+ patents, and pioneered technologies like magnetoelectric antennas and gas sensors. Key honors include the Humboldt Research Award (2019), NSF CAREER Award (2008), and Søren Buus Outstanding Research Award (2012).

Education:

• PhD in Engineering, Stanford University, 2002

Research Focus:

His work integrates magnetic, ferroelectric, and multiferroic materials into advanced systems for sensing, energy harvesting, and biomedical diagnostics. Current projects include magnetoelectric antennas for neural activity mapping, wearable sensors for pathogen detection, and high-efficiency power electronics. His lab develops ultra-sensitive gas sensors detecting biomarkers in exhaled breath for rapid disease diagnosis.

Key Projects:

• NSF Center for Pandemic Insights (Co-PI)
• W.M. Keck Foundation Award-funded neural probes
• National Science Foundation grants for energy-efficient power systems

Awards & Recognition:

• 2024 NAI Fellow
• 2024 APS Fellow
• 2020 Outstanding Translational Research Award
• Over 180 invited talks/seminars worldwide

Labs & Teams:

Directs the W.M. Keck Laboratory for Integrated Ferroics and Advanced Materials and Microsystems Laboratory, collaborating on NSF-funded ERCs and industry partnerships. His team includes PhD advisees like Bin Luo (AVS award winner) and Mukki Gill (neural implant developer).