Fulbright Scholar Mario Milazzo Contributes to Innovation and Excellence in Physics and Materials Science

 Seton Hall University celebrates the arrival of Mario Milazzo, Ph.D., a Fulbright Scholar whose cutting-edge expertise and global academic perspective are set to enrich the University's vibrant intellectual community. Milazzo, a tenure-track assistant professor in Science and Technology of Materials at the University of Pisa, joined Seton Hall this January, bringing a wealth of experience in advanced physics, materials science and engineering.

Milazzo’s academic journey began at the University of Pisa, where he graduated with honors in Mechanical Engineering in 2010. He later earned a Ph.D. in BioRobotics in 2016 from the prestigious Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, a globally renowned institution in robotics and advanced technologies. At Pisa, Milazzo has played an integral role in the field of materials science, with a focus on engineering innovative solutions for real-world challenges. His research explores groundbreaking areas like piezoelectric nanocomposites, biomaterials, microprosthetics, multiscale modeling, acoustic mechanics and robotics. These innovations have potential applications in creating smarter medical devices, enhancing hearing aids, improving prosthetics for greater mobility, and designing advanced robotics for industrial and healthcare use.

Milazzo’s professional accomplishments extend far beyond Pisa. His academic career includes stints as a Visiting Scientist at world-class institutions such as Columbia University, MIT and Tufts University. As a recipient of the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship, Milazzo has advanced the boundaries of interdisciplinary research, contributing to the global scientific community. He has co-authored more than 60 papers on international journals, two book chapters, nine patents and more than 60 contributions to national and international conferences and workshops, serving also as an invited and keynote speaker. In addition, Milazzo has been involved, both as a project manager and team leader, in several projects and collaborations with national and international companies (e.g., Ge Oil&Gas, Brembo, Magneti Marelli and Piaggi).

"Joining Seton Hall University as a Fulbright Scholar is a tremendous honor and an exciting opportunity to contribute to its mission of fostering academic excellence and ethical development in a diverse and collaborative environment,” said Milazzo, reflecting on his upcoming role at Seton Hall. “In addition to my research activities on piezoelectric nanocomposite materials, I am eager to teach Materials Science and Mechanics, sharing my expertise to inspire and prepare students to become leaders in their professional and community lives within a global society. I am thrilled to join this values-driven academic community and contribute to its commitment to innovation and global impact."

Jonathan Farina, Ph.D., Interim Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, emphasized the significance of  Milazzo's appointment. "Milazzo’s interdisciplinary expertise and international perspective embody the core values of Seton Hall’s mission. His presence will enhance our commitment to academic excellence, foster innovation in STEM education, and inspire our students to think globally as they tackle complex challenges."

Alper Sahiner, Ph.D., Fulbright Distinguished Scholar and chair of the Department of Physics, which will host Milazzo during his Fulbright residency, also expressed his excitement. "We are delighted to welcome Milazzo to the Department of Physics. His groundbreaking research and commitment to teaching will provide our students with unique opportunities to engage in cutting-edge science and prepare for impactful careers. His work on materials science and piezoelectric nanocomposites aligns with our department’s focus on advancing knowledge and fostering innovation."

Milazzo’s appointment at Seton Hall is an important step in advancing the University’s strategic goals of fostering international collaboration, academic excellence, and research innovation. Through his teaching, mentorship and pioneering research, he will also inspire students and advance the University's mission of shaping leaders who make a positive impact on a global scale.

Categories: Science and Technology