Engin Karabudak

Physical AI for Materials Discovery: Bridging Autonomous Research and Industrial Innovation

Abstract:

The development of advanced materials is becoming increasingly dependent on the ability to combine artificial intelligence with automated experimentation and scientific analysis. Traditional research methods remain essential, but the growing complexity of modern materials calls for faster, more adaptive approaches to discovery and optimization. This presentation explores how Physical AI is transforming materials research by connecting intelligent data analysis, autonomous synthesis, analytical characterization, and high-throughput experimentation within a continuous innovation process. It will also discuss how integrating these capabilities can shorten development cycles, improve experimental efficiency, and accelerate the transition from laboratory discoveries to scalable industrial technologies, particularly in areas such as battery materials, energy storage, and advanced functional materials.

Profile:

Engin Karabudak is a materials scientist, entrepreneur, and Associate Professor whose work focuses on Physical AI, autonomous materials discovery, analytical chemistry, and next-generation battery materials. He is the Co-Founder and CEO of NiCAT Battery Materials and A.I., where he leads the development of AI-assisted platforms for accelerating the discovery and commercialization of advanced cathode materials. Alongside his entrepreneurial activities, he has built an international academic career through research and collaborations with institutions including Caltech, the Max Planck Institute, the University of Twente, and the İzmir Institute of Technology. His research combines materials science, automation, and artificial intelligence to develop scalable technologies for energy storage and sustainable manufacturing.