Dr. Jeongwon Park, NAI Senior Member and Professor at NAI Member Institution the University of Nevada, Reno, is a trailblazer in the areas of IoT sensors and sensor networks for advanced manufacturing, nanotechnology-enabled flexible hybrid electronics, nanoelectronics, semiconductor, and nanomaterials. Dr. Park’s research focuses on solving challenges in electronics, including transistors with nanofabrication processes and materials for 7nm technology node and beyond!
His inventive journey began with a childhood fascination for how things work—a curiosity sparked at age 12 by his brother and a disassembled radio and nurtured through hands-on tinkering with salvaged electronics. Today, that same drive fuels his commitment to solving real-world problems through resilient, bold innovation. Whether in the lab or exploring mechanical systems through car repairs, Dr. Park remains dedicated to expanding the frontiers of his field. Below, read about the words he uses to describe himself, his advice for young innovators, and more!
Q: What words would you use to describe yourself?
A: Curious, resilient, bold, open-minded, self-motivated, inspiring, hard-working, insightful
Q: What inspired you, and continues to inspire you, to be an inventor?
A: My inspiration to become an inventor began at the age of 12 when my older brother explained how his radio worked. What seemed like a magical machine playing music became a source of curiosity, leading me to disassemble the radio and study its inner workings. This defining moment sparked a passion for understanding and creating technology. My curiosity grew as I searched my neighborhood for broken TVs, radios, and other devices, collecting components to experiment with. Eventually, my resourcefulness led me to build a go-kart, allowing me to expand my search and fuel my inventive spirit. This early hands-on exploration continues to inspire my journey as an inventor today.
Q: Why are you passionate about being an innovator?
A: I am passionate about being an innovator because I thrive on tackling big challenges and pushing the boundaries of technology. My curiosity and drive to learn continuously fuel my desire to build something greater than myself. The technologies I work with excite me, inspiring me to explore new possibilities and expand my knowledge. For me, innovation is not just about external rewards or cultural influences—it is driven by a deep passion for solving challenges, addressing gaps, and seizing opportunities. This intrinsic motivation keeps me at the forefront of discovery and fuels my commitment to making a lasting impact.
Q: In your spare time, in addition to working in your field, what do you love to do?
A: In my spare time, I love spending time at pull-it-yourself junkyards, where I can gain hands-on experience with car repair. Taking apart vehicles helps me understand how different components work while improving my problem-solving skills and tool familiarity. I enjoy observing various makes and models, learning from their design and engineering, and finding creative solutions to challenges. It’s also a great way to connect with other enthusiasts and mechanics, exchanging knowledge and tips. This hands-on experience fuels my curiosity and resourcefulness, making it a rewarding way to expand my technical skills beyond my primary field.
Q: What advice do you have for innovators looking to take their innovations from bench to market?
A: Innovators should prioritize the high-value problems in the market, develop a strong value proposition, and foster a culture of innovation.
Q: What do you feel the value of STEM education is, especially to young innovators?
A: Education is essential for young innovators. It nurtures critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity while equipping them with the skills needed to address real-world challenges and advance innovation across diverse industries.
Q: What do you feel is the importance of having diverse perspectives in creating innovations that benefit society?
A: Innovation demands an open mind and the courage to embrace diverse perspectives. By bringing together different backgrounds, thinking styles, and experiences, we gain insights that challenge the status quo and drive meaningful, high-impact innovation and progress.
Q: What advice would you give your younger self, or young innovators, pursuing a career in research and/or innovation?
A: Embrace continuous learning and stay open to new ideas. With the rapid evolution of work and technology, adaptability is essential. Maintain a curious mindset—asking questions and deepening your understanding can spark innovation and drive creative solutions.
Dr. Park was inducted as an NAI Senior Member in 2024. To read more about Dr. Park and his work, visit: https://www.unr.edu/ebme/people/jeongwon-park