Principal Investigator :
Hamed Dalir, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Electrical & Computer Engineering Department
University of Florida
PD, University of California – Berkeley, USA 2016
Ph.D., Institute of Science Tokyo, Japan 2014
M.Sc., Institute of Science Tokyo, Japan 2011
Email: hamed (dot) dalir (at) ufl (dot) edu
Dr. Hamed Dalir is an Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Florida, recognized for his pioneering work in photonic computing, semiconductor lasers, AI hardware, and integrated sensing systems. He earned his Ph.D. from the Institute of Science Tokyo and completed postdoctoral research at UC Berkeley. Dr. Dalir has authored over 300 publications, holds multiple patents, and has secured research fundings from TSMC, DOE, DARPA, AFWERX, AFOSR, ARO, AEC, NASA and others—including a dedicated run from TSMC. He serves as an Associate Editor for EPJ Quantum Technology (Springer Nature), is a SPIE Senior Member, has served on SPIE program committees, and was named a SPIE Community Champion. His numerous awards include the Best Project Collaboration Award from TSMC (2025), ECE Faculty of the Year (Student Choice, 2024–25), Rising Star in Photonics by the American Chemical Society (2025), IAAM Scientist Medal and Fellow (2024), AFWERX Commercialization Solutions (2022), IEEE/OSA Senior Member Distinction (2018), JSPS Fellow (2015), KAKENHI Early Investigator Award (2014), JSPS Young Scientist Award (2014), Golden Award from GCOE Tokyo Tech (2012), and the Yoshida Foundation Future Leaders Award (2009).
Editorships: EPJ Quantum Technology |
Postdoc:
Abbott Amirany, Ph.D.
PD., University of Florida, 2025
Visiting Scholar, University of Texas at Austin, 2025
PD., The George Washington University, 2023-2025
Abbott is a highly accomplished researcher whose work bridges VLSI design, emerging technologies, neuromorphic computing, and approximate computing. He earned his B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering, and has built a distinguished career grounded in both academic excellence and technological innovation. Before joining the University of Florida, Dr. Amirany served as a postdoctoral scientist at George Washington University, where he furthered his research in energy-efficient and intelligent hardware systems.
With over 60 peer-reviewed publications and more than 1,000 citations, Dr. Amirany has made lasting contributions through collaborations with top-tier institutions and leading scholars in his field. His groundbreaking research has been recognized with numerous honors, including several Best Paper Awards at international conferences and six consecutive Top Student Researcher accolades. From 2018 to 2023, he was named Researcher of the Year—a rare and consistent recognition of his leadership and impact.
Dr. Amirany’s excellence has also been acknowledged on a national scale, earning him U.S. permanent residency through the EB-1A program for individuals of extraordinary ability. He is a Senior Member of both IEEE and ACM, a Life Member of SPIE, and actively involved in professional organizations including AAAS, AAAI, and Sigma Xi.
Editorship: Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Ph.D. Students:
Sydney Mutchnick
L3Harris Scholar
Sydney is a Ph.D. student in the Department of Physics at the University of Florida. She received dual Bachelor’s degrees in Physics and Mathematics from the University of Richmond. As an L3Harris Scholar, Sydney's research focuses on developing integrated electronic-photonic platforms to enable faster, ultra-compact, energy-efficient computational systems. She has experience in MEMS and NEMS device fabrication, working at the intersection of nanotechnology and photonics. Her strong theoretical background in physics has allowed her to specialize in integrated photonics, applying fundamental principles to advance cutting-edge technologies in high-speed computing and signal processing.
Jiachi Ye
MSc., The George Washington University, USA
Jiachi is an Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) doctoral student at the University of Florida. Jiachi possesses a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in ECE, with an emphasis on image processing, micro-control unit (MCU) programming, convolutional neural network (CNN) training, and free-space optical system design. His main objective is to investigate the physics and uses of orbital angular momentum (OAM) beams in optical computing. This emerging optical research topic has significant promise for enhancing the capacity of optical data links. He is a member of IEEE, OSA/Optica, and SPIE as a student.
Salem Altaleb
MSc., Wayne State University, USA
Salem is an Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) doctoral student at the University of Florida. Salem possesses a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in ECE, with an emphasis on practical abilities in computer languages and hardware design. His significant laboratory expertise has enabled him to specialize on convolutional neural network accelerators and optical system projects. In addition, he has extensive experience constructing field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), very large-scale integration (VLSI), and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). His research interests include 2D materials and optoelectronic devices. He is a member of IEEE, OSA/Optica, and SPIE as a student.
Bel Jahannia
Researcher, The George Washington University, USA
Belal is a doctoral student in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at the University of Florida. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in ECE. Belal specializes in the efficient hardware implementation of neural networks, focusing on reducing memory requirements for storing neural network weights. His expertise includes techniques such as quantization, memory sharing, model compression, in-memory computing, and hardware-specific optimizations. Belal aims to enhance the efficiency of neural network implementations on platforms like FPGA and ASIC neural network hardware accelerators, bridging the gap between AI algorithms and hardware deployment.
Joseph Crandall
BSc./ MSc., George Washington University, USA
Joseph Crandall is a Software Engineer II at Microsoft, specializing in areas such as SQL Virtual Machines and Service Fabric performance. With over four years of experience in software engineering and data science, he is proficient in Python, C++, and Java, enabling him to contribute effectively to Microsoft Azure. Simultaneously, Joseph is pursuing a PhD in Electrical Engineering with a focus on quantum sensing and computing. He holds an MS in Electrical Engineering and dual BS degrees in Computer Science and Physics, as well as a private pilot certificate. Dedicated to advancing the field of software and quantum engineering, Joseph aims to develop technologies that benefit society and the environment. His personal website, josephcrandall.com, provides further details on his work and projects.
Abdulaziz S. Bazammul
MSc., Imperial College London, United Kingdom
Abdulaziz’s passion for understanding nature made him pursue a career in physics. Graduating from King Abdulaziz University with BSc in physics with outstanding academic and training records in the field of carbon nanotubes and quantum espresso. After which he did his MSc in Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces at Imperial College London. His masters dissertation titled “What have we learned of quantum gravity from holography” has opened his eyes to the field of quantum technologies and its crucial role to advance the field of fundamental physics further. All of these events made Abdulaziz an enthusiastic researcher and an eager learner in the field of Quantum technology which led him to join the CHIP Lab as a PhD student.
Vahid Najmi
MSc., Virginia Tech, USA
Vahid is a PhD student and a senior principal electrical hardware engineer at Volkswagen Group, one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world. With a proven track record in cutting-edge technology and product development, he has held pivotal roles at renowned companies such as Tesla, where he served as a Staff Electronics Design Engineer, and Solectria Yaskawa Solar, where he contributed as a Senior Power Electronics Engineer.
Rouzbeh Borhanoi
MSc., Hult International Business School, USA
Rouzbeh is the Head of the Semiconductor practice at Plug and Play, the largest corporate innovation platform in the world and one of the most active early-stage investors globally. He collaborates closely with entrepreneurs, corporate innovation leaders, and investors, focusing on the semiconductor industry value chain. Previously, Rouzbeh served as the Country Retail Management Director at Huawei Consumer Business Group in the Consumer Electronics sector. Rouzbeh holds a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Disruptive Innovation, along with a Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Engineering. His passion lies at the intersection of technology and business.
Benjamin Hayden
UG., University of Florida, USA
Benjamin is an incoming Ph.D. student at the University of Florida, focusing on advanced ADC/DAC design for AI accelerators. He is passionate about emerging technologies, particularly quantum computing and integrated photonics. Beyond academics, Benjamin enjoys drawing, playing volleyball, and lifting weights. He aspires to contribute to the advancement of quantum and photonic technologies in the years to come.
Undergraduate Students:
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Jeremy Seitz
BSc., The University of Florida, USA
Jeremy Seitz is a third-year ECE student focused on sensor technology and photonic devices. His current research centers on PCB-based gas-pressure sensors that combine analog/digital circuit design with embedded firmware to deliver compact, energy-efficient measurement platforms. He also designs and optimizes grating couplers for photonic integrated circuits, exploring high-speed electronic–photonic interfaces. Beyond the lab, Jeremy serves as a Teaching Assistant for Programming 2 for Electrical Engineers and holds leadership roles with UF’s Solar Gators: Business Coordinator, Recruitment Chair, and Sensors Lead. In 2024 he helped the team race their solar-powered car from Nashville, TN to Casper, WY in the American Solar Challenge. Jeremy’s long-term goal is to advance smart sensing systems that bridge electronics and photonics for real-world applications.
Brianna McDaniel
BSc., The University of Florida, USA
In her third year at the University of Florida, Brianna McDaniel is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and an AI certificate. Brianna leads the Women's Club Basketball Team as Captain and Fundraising Chair, demonstrating her commitment for cooperation and community participation outside of school. She also volunteers for the UF Chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers as Programs Chair. An Electrical Team Project Lead at the Machine Intelligence Laboratory, Brianna works on autonomous vehicles. Brianna is skilled in programming, PCB design, and analog and digital circuitry. Her scholarship to an underrepresented student in higher education shows her commitment to diversity and education. Brianna spearheaded a revolutionary machine learning DNA sequencing effort to predict type 1 diabetes. A humanoid robot she constructed using open-source AI models is her personal endeavor outside of academia. This project showcases her Python, Raspberry Pi 4, and human sensing skills to develop a human-centered robotic companion.
Mathias Gast
BSc., The University of Florida, USA
Mathias is a second-year Mechanical, Aerospace, and Electrical Engineering student at the University of Florida. Upon obtaining his bachelor’s, he seeks to pursue a master’s and PH.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) also at the University of Florida. Research interests are exploratory and include but are not limited to purpose-built artificial intelligence hardware and photonics integrated circuits.
Fernando E. Amado-Pupo
BSc., The University of Florida, USA
Fernando is a third-year Computer Engineering student at the University of Florida, specializing in embedded systems and high-performance computing. His technical expertise spans crucial areas including digital design, data science, and signal processing, complemented by a strong foundation in microprocessor applications and computer architecture. Currently, Fernando is advancing his skills in PYNQ and PetaLinux software configuration, while developing sophisticated signal processing applications using Python and High-Level Synthesis (HLS). His academic portfolio includes comprehensive coursework in Operating Systems, Computer Organization, and Digital Logic, demonstrating his commitment to understanding computing systems at both hardware and software levels. Outside of his technical pursuits, Fernando maintains an active lifestyle through basketball and weightlifting, and enjoys fostering social connections by watching UFC events with friends.
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Isaac Yu
BSc., The University of Florida, USA
Isaac is a second-year Electrical and Computer Engineering student at the University of Florida, is exploring interests in photonic integrated circuits, analog computing, IoT, and audio engineering. He also brings diverse skills in coding, engineering, design, and music production allowing him to work with various team throughout different projects. Isaac's goal is to innovate and design technologies that enhance user experiences, blending photonic technology with user experience in IoT.
Iain Dimech
BSc., The University of Florida, USA
Iain is a third year Electrical Engineer major with a minor in Mathematics at UF set to graduate in May 2026. He was born in Clearwater, FL and was raised the rest of my life in Inverness, Florida of Citrus County, just an hour south of UF. He is currently a seminars coordinator for IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers), organizing professors and professionals to deliver seminars about interesting topics in the electrical/computer engineering landscapes.He is also the Director of Special Events for the ECEA (Electrical and Computer Engineering Ambassadors) who take care of all major on- campus events for electrical and computer engineers at UF.
Evan Gehler
BSc., The University of Florida, USA
Evan possesses a robust foundation in signal processing and digital signal processing (DSP), acquired via practical experience with digital and analog synthesizers for electronic music. Presently engaged in the study of Data Structures and Algorithms, Computer Organization, Circuits 1, and Computational Linear Algebra, they have also finalized coursework in advanced mathematics (Calculus 1-3, Differential Equations, Discrete Mathematics), physics, programming, digital logic, and computer-aided design (CAD/SolidWorks). His multidisciplinary expertise encompasses hardware, software, and mathematical modeling, rendering them adept at addressing intricate engineering and computational difficulties.
Jack Payne
BSc., The University of Florida, USA
Jack is a third year Computer Engineering student with interests in embedded signal processing, bare metal MCU, and neural engineering. I aim to write firmware for audio devices or medical devices. In the CHIP lab, I am developing a system for an advanced Xilinx FPGA to receive multidimensional data through RF inputs and perform signal processing tasks, while offloading matrix convolution to a photonic chip. Outside of the lab you might find me tinkering, frolicking, or carousing.
Kasra Karkheiran
BSc., The University of Florida, USA
He is currently working on image processing for the FPGA. So far, he has developed an IEEE Binary Converter. This tool reads convolution pairs from a text file, converts the values into IEEE binary format, and writes the results to an output text file. Currently, we are working with the CIFAR-10 dataset. He is importing the images and using the converter to transform the RGB values of each pixel into IEEE binary format. The processed values are then stored in a text file.
Sponsors and Collaborators
