Boden Bernard is a rising sophomore in Materials Science and Engineering at NC State who will be joining AIF this semester through the High-Impact Experience program.

Boden first became interested in materials science through his dad, a patent attorney who works with engineering firms on a wide range of technologies. That early exposure sparked his interest in the field, especially in quantum and semiconductor materials, which he’s continued to explore at NC State. Originally from Monroe, North Carolina, Boden also built a foundation in engineering through the pre-engineering academy at Central Academy of Technology and Arts, where he first got hands-on experience with materials concepts.

His path to AIF came through a connection with current student worker Adriana Lara, who introduced him to both the facility and the type of work he could be involved in. After gaining experience with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) in his MSE 255 course, Boden was eager to learn more.

“I was very interested in learning more about these instruments and how they can be used in characterization for different areas of research,” he said.

At AIF, Boden is especially excited about the opportunity to work with a wide range of research and see how advanced instrumentation is used across different fields. He’s particularly interested in the SEM lab, which stood out to him during class.

“It was simply my favorite and most interesting lab we got to do,” he said. “The idea of getting to use even stronger equipment is fascinating.”

Boden is looking forward to gaining hands-on experience with research characterization and learning from the researchers he’ll interact with in the facility. He’s especially interested in how the same tools can be used in different ways across projects.

“I am greatly looking forward to getting in the lab and meeting some very smart, dedicated people working on research and doing my best to contribute in any way.”

– Boden Bernard

While his current interests are centered around semiconductor materials, he’s eager to explore a wide range of applications and see how this experience shapes his path moving forward.

Outside of the lab, Boden has a wide range of interests. He has been a competitive épée fencer for over 10 years and also coaches beginner saber at his fencing club. He’s involved with the Engineers Without Borders SLRE team, enjoys hands-on projects, and spends time powerlifting at Carmichael Gym.

As he prepares to start at AIF, Boden is looking forward to getting into the lab environment and contributing where he can.