PodcastsEducationEngineering Innovations

Engineering Innovations

Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Engineering Innovations
Latest episode

25 episodes

  • Engineering Innovations

    Engineering Innovations: The Internet, but Make it Quantum

    18/03/2026 | 37 mins.
    Engineering Innovations: The Internet, but Make it Quantum

    Host Kristin Malavenda interviews Purdue ECE associate professor Joseph Luken about engineering “spooky action at a distance” into real technology, including quantum communication networks and the future quantum internet. Luken explains how the quantum internet would transmit qubits and distribute entanglement, why networking is essential for scaling quantum computing and sensing, and why Einstein objected to entanglement until Bell’s later experimental tests supported quantum predictions. He describes quantum key distribution (QKD), how it detects eavesdropping, and how it contrasts with post-quantum cryptography, arguing for pursuing both given the risk of future quantum attacks. Luken discusses recent industry momentum, predicts fault-tolerant quantum computing may arrive within 10 years, and emphasizes integrated photonics as critical to moving quantum systems off optics tables and reducing loss.
    Purdue ECE: http://engineering.purdue.edu/ECE
    Facebook: http://facebook.com/purdueece
    X: https://x.com/PurdueECE
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/purdue.ece
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/purdue-ece

    Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, founded in 1888, is one of the largest ECE departments in the nation and is consistently ranked among the best in the country.
  • Engineering Innovations

    Engineering Innovations: How AI is Changing Images and Video

    18/02/2026 | 27 mins.
    AI and Visual Data Compression: Insights from Purdue ECE Professor Maggie Zhu
    In this episode of Engineering Innovations, host Kristin Malavenda explores the fascinating world of visual data compression with Professor Maggie Zhu of Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. They discuss how AI is revolutionizing the efficiency of image and video compression, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and how these advancements impact industries ranging from healthcare to entertainment. Tune in to learn about the latest research and future possibilities in AI-driven compression.
    ECE: http://engineering.purdue.edu/ECE
    Facebook: http://facebook.com/purdueece
    X: https://x.com/PurdueECE
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/purdue.ece
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/purdue-ece
    Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, founded in 1888, is one of the largest ECE departments in the nation and is consistently ranked among the best in the country.
  • Engineering Innovations

    The Hidden Cost of AI: Making Data Centers Sustainable

    21/01/2026 | 27 mins.
    Understanding the Environmental Impact of AI with Dr. Yi Ding
    Hosted and produced by Kristin Malavenda
    In this episode of Engineering Innovations, host Kristin Malavenda talks to Dr. Yi Ding, an associate professor at Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. They discuss the immense energy consumption of modern AI systems like ChatGPT, which could soon account for up to 12% of US electricity usage. Dr. Ding's research focuses on the broader environmental impacts of AI, including carbon emissions, water consumption, and biodiversity. They delve into how AI models and data centers contribute to these issues and explore strategies for developing sustainable AI systems. Dr. Ding sheds light on policy implications, data transparency, and industry practices that need to change for a more sustainable future. The episode also touches on Dr. Ding's personal journey into this research and her pedagogical approach to mentoring students.
    00:00 Introduction to Engineering Innovations
    00:14 The Energy Cost of AI
    00:32 Meet Dr. Yi Ding
    01:00 Understanding AI's Energy Hunger
    03:16 Inside Data Centers
    04:22 Beyond Energy: Carbon, Water, and Biodiversity
    08:26 Dr. Yi Ding's Research Journey
    10:32 Balancing Performance and Sustainability
    15:00 The Role of Policy and Regulation
    16:07 Future of AI and Sustainability
    22:18 Mentorship and Personal Insights
    27:15 Conclusion and Farewell

    Purdue ECE: http://engineering.purdue.edu/ECE
    Facebook: http://facebook.com/purdueece
    X: https://x.com/PurdueECE
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/purdue.ece
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/purdue-ece

    Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, founded in 1888, is one of the largest ECE departments in the nation and is consistently ranked among the best in the country.
  • Engineering Innovations

    Unveiling the Complex Web of Software Security

    17/12/2025 | 30 mins.
    Unpacking Software Supply Chain Security with Dr. Santiago Torres Arias
    Hosted and produced by Kristin Malavenda
    In this episode of Engineering Innovations, host Kristin Malavenda speaks with Dr. Santiago Torres Arias, an assistant professor at Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. The discussion examines the complexities and importance of software supply chain security, exploring the various risks and vulnerabilities present in the modern digital landscape. Dr. Torres Arias shares insights about his research projects, including the in toto framework and the Sigstore project, both designed to protect the integrity of software throughout its development and distribution. He also touches on the interplay between cybersecurity and everyday software use, the role of machine learning, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling these challenges. Finally, they discuss practical advice for both consumers and students in the field of cybersecurity.

    00:00 Introduction to Engineering Innovations Podcast
    00:58 Understanding the Software Supply Chain
    01:52 Dr. Santiago Torres Arias' Journey into Cybersecurity
    03:06 The Importance of Cybersecurity in Everyday Life
    08:07 In Toto: Securing the Software Development Lifecycle
    13:53 The Role of Open Source in Software Security
    15:54 Exploring the Evolution of Letters and Software Security
    16:29 Introduction to Applied Cryptography
    17:47 AI and Machine Learning in Supply Chain Security
    19:32 Balancing Technology Use and Security Awareness
    20:52 Future Challenges in Supply Chain Security
    21:55 Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Research
    23:26 Choosing Academia Over Industry
    24:37 Qualities of a Good Research Student
    25:53 Embracing Failure in Engineering
    27:15 A Journey into Engineering
    28:27 The Creative Side of Engineering
    29:06 Personal Hobbies and Decompression
    29:49 Conclusion and Farewell

    Purdue ECE: http://engineering.purdue.edu/ECE
    Facebook: http://facebook.com/purdueece
    X: https://x.com/PurdueECE
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/purdue.ece
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/purdue-ece

    Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, founded in 1888, is one of the largest ECE departments in the nation and is consistently ranked among the best in the country.
  • Engineering Innovations

    What Makes 2D Materials a Game-Changer for Future Electronics?

    19/11/2025 | 35 mins.
    Exploring the Future of Electronics with 2D Materials
    In this episode of Engineering Innovations, host Kristin Malavenda welcomes Dr. Joerg Appenzeller, the Barry M. and Patricia L. Epstein Professor at Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Dr. Zeller shares his journey from studying physics in Germany to joining Purdue, delving into his fascinating research on two-dimensional (2D) materials. These materials, which are just one atom thick, have potential applications in transistors, memory, and interconnects, promising to revolutionize electronics. Dr. Zeller explains the unique properties of 2D materials, their advantages over traditional materials like silicon, and their expected adoption timeline. Additionally, he discusses the importance of interdisciplinary work, students' involvement in innovative research, and the hands-on training provided at Purdue. Tune in to learn how these groundbreaking materials could shape the future of technology.

    Hosted and produced by Kristin Malavenda

    00:00 Introduction to Engineering Innovations Podcast
    01:01 Meet Dr. Yorg Zeller: From Germany to Purdue
    05:16 Understanding 2D Materials
    07:37 Graphene and Its Impact
    09:21 Applications of 2D Materials in Electronics
    12:35 Challenges and Future of 2D Materials
    20:39 Student Involvement and Research
    30:48 Career Paths and Personal Insights
    36:42 Reflecting on Teaching and Student Engagement
    38:07 Introduction to Engineering Innovations Podcast
    01:01 Journey to Purdue and Research in 2D Materials
    05:16 Understanding 2D Materials and Their Applications
    09:21 Challenges and Future of 2D Materials
    20:39 Student Involvement and Research Impact
    30:48 Career Paths and Personal Insights
    35:01 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

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About Engineering Innovations

"Engineering Innovations," the official podcast of Purdue University’s Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, lives at the intersection of where the physical meets the virtual.In each episode, we sit down with our faculty members who are persistently pursuing their next giant leap. Explore the fascinating world of their cutting-edge research, unravel the mysteries of advanced technologies, and gain insight into the transformative projects that are revolutionizing the field.Whether you're a seasoned professional, a curious student, or simply a tech-enthusiastic, "Engineering Innovations" promises to spark your curiosity and inspire a passion for the endless possibilities within electrical and computer engineering.
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