William Robbins

William Robbins is a Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Minnesota's College of Science and Engineering. His work focuses on energy harvesting technologies, power electronics, and curriculum innovation.

• Key Affiliations: University of Minnesota, IEEE, NSF-funded initiatives

Robbins specializes in flexible piezoelectric materials for wind energy harvesting and surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices using magnetostrictive materials. He co-developed a modern electric energy systems curriculum with dissemination through faculty workshops.

Research trends show sustained contributions to:

• Power Electronics: Zero ripple interfaces for PV/battery systems
• Material Science: Thin film magnetostrictive materials (FeGa) and nickel/lithium niobate composites
• Education: Integrated STEM pathways from high school to doctoral research

His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for clean energy and climate action, supported by grants from NSF, USDOD, and USDOE.