Igor V. Sevonkaev, PhD

Education

2004–2009

PhD in Physics,
Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY
Thesis title: “Mechanisms of the Formation of Uniform Particles with Well-Defined Size and Shape.”

2002–2003

MS in Physics with Distinction,
East-Ukrainian National University, Lugansk, Ukraine
Thesis title: "Mechanisms of Self-Regulation in Biological Systems."

Professional experience and expertise

Professional

I am involved in industrial projects on design and preparation of materials for fuel-cell and photovoltaic applications (such as, size control of noble metal particles, and preparation of core-shell catalysts for automotive applications). We developed inexpensive process for coating substrate particles with uniform continuous nanolayer of Pt for electro-catalytic purposes.

I develop metallic (Au, Ag, Pt, Ir, Pd, etc.) and non-metallic (PbS, MgF2, etc.) particles, as well as metal oxides and other related materials of various sizes and shapes for practical applications. I also perform experimental design and analytical characterization.

General skills

Project target oriented and creative;

Solid task formulation and problem solving;

Strong cross-functional skills (computer science, engineering , technology, analytical skills, math/physics) help to utilize maximum knowledge and experience, and reduce time for achieving project goals;

General understanding of many topics of engineering and technology: increases communication skills and overall projecz understanding;

Versatile between "Get me the product" and "Develop me a process and a product."

Analytical skills

Surface morphology characterization by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM);

Material identification, by Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX);

Particle characterization and identification by Transmission Electron Microscopy and Selected Area Electron Diffraction (including CEBD);

Particle identification, crystal structure determination, and characterization by X-Ray Powder Diffraction;

Electro kinetic analysis, Electrophoretic light scattering;

Electrochemical analysis (CV – cyclic voltammetry);

Thermal gravimetric analysis.

Advanced skills

Took a practical course on "Fabrication of Micro Scale Devices" at Clarkson University (to watch animated summary of the project click here).

Attended Cornell Nanoscale Science & Technology Facility (CNF) Short Course on "Technology & Characterization at the Nanoscale" at Cornell University.

Computer skills

Programming: MS Visual C++, HTML, PHP;

Computational: Mathcad, MatLab, Maple;

Art, design, and modeling: Photoshop, 3ds Max, AutoCad;

Operational: Windows, MacOS, MS Office etc.;

Knowledgeable in computer networking and troubleshooting for both: software and hardware problems.

Work and teaching experience

Working

2009–now

Research associate, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY.

2004–2009

Research assistant, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY Design and setup lab experiments; Research investigation, instrumental analysis, and software development in frame of thesis.

2002—2003

Computer lab engineer, Polytechnic College, Lugansk, Ukraine Computer maintenance and IT support at Polytechnic College.

2003—2003

Designer of computer graphics, firm ASMAL, Lugansk, Ukraine Design and visualization of interiors of private and public properties.

Teaching

2005—2006

Teaching Assistant Laboratory and recitation instructor for Physics I course, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY.

2003 Spring

Laboratory and Recitation Instructor for computer sciences I, Polytechnical College, Ukraine, Lugansk.

Honors and activities

2007

Distinguished Graduate Student Award, Clarkson University.

2003

Distinguished Graduate Student Award, East-Ukrainian National University.

2002

Distinguished Undergraduate Student Award, East-Ukrainian National University.

1998—2003

Class President at East-Ukrainian National University.

2003—2004

Vice-president of Science branch of Student Committee at East Ukrainian National University.

1998

Honored as a Distinguished Student of the city of Lugansk.

1998

Third prize in National Tournament of Young Physicists, Ukraine.

1998

First prize in Physics Olympiad in city of Lugansk, Ukraine.