Futuristic Devices will be powered by cutting edge applications of materials science at the intersection of physics, electronics and nanotechnology !

Rinu Abraham Maniyara, our next pathbreaker, Head of Thin Film Research at IDEADED, a semiconductor company (Spain), works with a team of scientists on next generation technologies based on “thin films” that can power flexible electronics, semiconducting chips, and advanced materials.

Rinu talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about his PhD at ICFO (Spain) where he worked on ultrathin metals that are cheaper, more flexible, and equally effective for applications in flexible electronics.

For students, dream big, even if it feels impossible right now. Your background does not limit your future, your mindset does.

Rinu, can you share your background with our young readers?

I grew up in a beautiful small town called Sulthan Bathery, in Wayanad, Kerala, surrounded by greenery, hills, and calm village life. My childhood was simple, but filled with dreams. From a young age, I was deeply inspired by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, his life, speeches, and especially his book Wings of Fire made me dream of becoming a scientist one day.

I loved studying, but I never studied just for marks. I studied because I was curious. Especially about Physics and Electronics, those were my favourite subjects.

After my postgraduation, I worked as a lecturer in Electronics. Then something amazing happened  in 2014, I got a scholarship to do a PhD in Photonics (the science of light) at one of the top research institutes in the world ICFO in Barcelona, Spain. It was a dream come true.

Even as a student, I was always curious and creative. I loved reading so much that I had my own little library with over 1000 books! I also enjoyed writing essays and won many prizes for it. These hobbies helped me think clearly, express myself, and stay motivated.

My parents were my biggest supporters. My father worked in a bank as an Assistant Manager, and my mother was a homemaker who gave her full heart to raising us. They taught me discipline, honesty, and the importance of education and values.

Books like Wings of Fire and The Alchemist shaped my thinking, and I truly believe that if you dare to dream, work hard, and stay kind, the world opens up for you.

What did you do for graduation/post graduation?

For my graduation, I studied BSc Electronics at WMO College, Muttil in Wayanad, Kerala. I really enjoyed the subject and worked hard and I was proud to get first rank from Calicut University. That gave me the confidence to aim even higher.

After that, I did my MSc Electronics at the College of Applied Science, Vadakkencherry in Palakkad. Once again, I gave it my best, and I was blessed to receive first rank from Calicut University for my post-graduation too.

Both during graduation and post-graduation, I focused not just on marks, but on deeply understanding how electronics and physics work in real life, especially how light and energy can be used in technology. That curiosity is what later led me to do research in photonics (the science of light) during my PhD.

What were some of the key influences that led you to such an offbeat, unconventional, and unique career in Semiconductors?

Ever since I was a child, I was fascinated by stories of great scientists. I used to read about Einstein, Edison, and Marie Curie, how they struggled, experimented, and kept going even when the world doubted them. Their stories planted a small dream in my heart: “Maybe I can also become a scientist one day.”

But the biggest turning point came when Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam became the President of India. Suddenly, every school and newspaper was talking about him and I started learning more about his life. Here was a simple man from a small town, just like me, who became a scientist and then the President! His book Wings of Fire touched my heart. It made me believe that with hard work and dreams, anything is possible.

That’s when I started thinking more seriously about science. I didn’t just want to study for marks, I wanted to understand how things worked. I wanted to discover something new, help people through technology, and maybe even inspire others someday, just like Kalam sir did.

There were no scientists in my family, but books became my mentors. Kalam sir, Einstein, and others guided me through their words, and that’s how my journey toward science and research truly began.

How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted? Or how did you make a transition to a new career? Tell us about your career path

My dream was clear from childhood- I wanted to become a scientist. But I didn’t know exactly how to get there at first. So, I took one step at a time, always staying curious and open to learning.

After finishing my BSc and MSc in Electronics, I began my career as a lecturer in Electronics. Teaching helped me learn even more deeply and built my confidence. But I knew that to truly become a scientist, I had to get into research.

After completing one year of teaching, I cleared the UGC NET in Electronics, which opened the door for me to pursue research. I was then selected for a PhD position at the International School of Photonics, CUSAT, under the guidance of Prof. V. P. N. Nampoori, a very well-known and respected figure in the field of photonics. It was a proud and exciting moment for me, especially because CUSAT has such a strong reputation in photonics research. I joined the program and began my PhD journey there. However, within a month of joining, I received an offer from ICFO in Spain, which is one of the world’s top institutes for photonics. After careful thought, I made the difficult decision to leave CUSAT and pursue my PhD abroad at ICFO. So, although I was at CUSAT for just a month, it was an important step and being selected to work under such a renowned professor gave me great confidence in my research path.

Then, a big opportunity came- I received a scholarship to do a PhD in Photonics (the science of light) at ICFO, a world-class research institute in Barcelona, Spain. This was a major turning point in my life. During my PhD, I worked with amazing scientists, learned to use advanced lab technologies, and published many research papers and patents. It was like entering a whole new world of science and discovery.

Can you talk about your research during your PhD and PostDoc?

My PhD research was focused on developing transparent electrodes, thin layers of material that conduct electricity but also let light pass through, which are essential for flexible and transparent electronics. The material commonly used today is ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), but it’s expensive, brittle, and not ideal for flexible devices. So my goal was to find better alternatives using ultrathin metals that are cheaper, more flexible, and equally effective.

When I joined ICFO in Spain, I had a solid background in electronics, but research was a new world for me. Thankfully, I received excellent training and support from my seniors and lab staff. I learned how to use advanced scientific tools and deposition techniques to create nanometer-thin films of metals like gold and silver.

My first breakthrough was published in Nature Communications, a study that introduced a new kind of antireflection transparent conductor with ultralow optical loss (<2%) and very low electrical resistance (<6 Ω/sq). This material can be used in things like solar cells, touchscreens, and smart displays. That paper gave me a lot of recognition and confidence to go deeper into the field.

Later, I worked on a more advanced topic: controlling plasmons in ultrathin metal films and  this research was published in Nature Photonics in 2019. Plasmons are special interactions between light and electrons that happen when metals are made extremely thin, just a few atoms thick. These effects are the reason old stained glass windows appear colorful (even though people back then didn’t know they were using nanotechnology!).

We developed a method to create uniform, ultra-thin gold films by using a copper seed layer. This technique allowed us to tune the plasmon behavior using electric signals (called electrical gating), which opens doors to applications like:

  • Smart windows that change transparency
  • Biosensors that detect diseases
  • Spectroscopy tools for chemical analysis
  • Electrochromic devices (like color-changing screens)

What made this special was that our technique was industrially scalable, meaning it could be used in large factories, not just small labs.

Overall, my PhD journey opened up a world of new science. It taught me how fundamental research can directly shape the future of technology, and that even abstract concepts like nanoplasmonics can lead to real-world applications in energy, electronics, and healthcare.

After my PhD, I got another exciting chance- a postdoctoral fellowship at Penn State University in Pennsylvania, USA, one of the top universities for material science. I spent two years there, working on cutting-edge technologies and continuing to publish new findings. I learned how to solve complex scientific problems and also how to work in international teams.

I would say my postdoc was partially an extension of my PhD, especially in the area of ultrathin metal films. During my PhD at ICFO, I was working on nanometer-scale metal films using conventional PVD (physical vapor deposition) methods, studying their optical and electrical properties, particularly for plasmonics and transparent electronics.

When I joined Penn State University for my postdoc, the work went even deeper, to the atomic level. Just before I joined, the team there had developed a breakthrough method called confinement heteroepitaxy, which allowed the growth of metal films that are just one or two atoms thick, something that was previously extremely difficult to achieve.

Because I had already published my Nature Photonics paper on tunable plasmons in ultrathin metal films, and had strong experience with thin-film technology, I was selected for the position quite smoothly.

At Penn State, my work focused on the synthesis, characterization, and application of atomically thin 2D metals and low-dimensional nanomaterials. We worked with materials like gold, silver, gallium, indium, and their alloys and oxides, growing them on epitaxial graphene/SiC substrates. These ultra-thin metals are important for next-generation technologies like electronics chips, biosensors, plasmonic devices, metamaterials, and optoelectronics.

It was an exciting time because I got to work at the cutting edge of materials science, collaborate with experts from different fields, and explore new physics and applications that could shape the future of electronics and photonics.

Then came the next big step- I was offered the position of Head of Thin Film Research at IDEADED, a semiconductor company in Spain, where I’ve been working for the past three years. Here, I lead research projects, work with a team of scientists, and explore how to use materials to build the future of electronics.

My approach:

  • I never rushed. I focused on learning deeply, not just chasing jobs or titles.
  • I kept reading, experimenting, and connecting with good mentors.
  • I applied for scholarships and fellowships, which helped me study abroad.
  • I always stayed open to new opportunities, even if it meant moving to a new country.

And all along, I just followed my passion for science, step by step.

How did you get your first break?

My first big break came when I got selected for a PhD scholarship at ICFO, one of the world’s top research institutes in Barcelona, Spain. Until then, I had studied and worked only in Kerala as a lecturer, and going abroad for research felt like a huge dream.

I had always been passionate about science, especially electronics and photonics, and I used to spend hours reading, writing, and exploring new topics. When I found the ICFO opportunity online, I decided to take a chance. I prepared a strong application, shared my university ranks, and explained my interest in light-based technologies.

I was selected to do my PhD at ICFO (The Institute of Photonic Sciences), which is one of the top research centers in the world for photonics research. ICFO has world-class labs, incredible facilities, Nobel-level scientists, and a strong record of high-impact publications and patents. So, when I received the offer from ICFO, it wasn’t a difficult decision, I knew it was the right place for my research goals.

To be honest, I didn’t know much about Spain at the time. The only thing I really knew was FC Barcelona, the football club! But once I arrived, I completely fell in love with the country. The culture is warm and vibrant, the people are incredibly friendly, and they really know how to enjoy life. I enjoyed the food, the festivals, and even got to watch Messi, Neymar, and others play live at the stadium, which was a dream come true for any football fans!

So while it may seem like an unusual choice from the outside, for me, Spain and ICFO in particular  was the perfect match, both for my research and for my personal growth. I found a beautiful balance of world-class science and joyful living, which made those years unforgettable.

When I got the acceptance letter with a fully funded scholarship I couldn’t believe it. That one email changed my life. It opened doors to international research, world-class labs, and a global scientific network. It also gave me the confidence that yes, even someone from a small town in Wayanad can dream big and succeed on the world stage.

What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them?

Every journey has its ups and downs  and mine had many! But I learned that challenges make you stronger, smarter, and more grateful.

Challenge 1: Limited Resources & Small-Town Background

I studied in a small town in Wayanad, Kerala. We didn’t have fancy labs or advanced equipment. Sometimes people thought big dreams like “becoming a scientist” were unrealistic for someone from a rural place.

How I overcame it:

I didn’t let that stop me. I used whatever resources I had  books, internet, local libraries and focused on understanding concepts deeply. I topped the university in both my BSc and MSc, which gave me the confidence to apply for international research programs.

Challenge 2: Language and Cultural Barriers Abroad

When I first moved to Spain for my PhD, everything felt new and different  language, food, culture, and teaching style. It was easy to feel lost.

How I overcame it:

I stayed open-minded, made friends, asked questions, and slowly adjusted. I started learning Spanish, improved my English, and focused on building good relationships with my labmates. Step by step, I found my place.

Challenge 3: Handling Research Pressure

During my PhD and Postdoc, research was intense. Sometimes experiments failed, papers got rejected, or results didn’t come out as expected. It was mentally challenging.

How I overcame it:

I reminded myself why I started my love for science. I took breaks when needed, spoke to mentors, and kept trying. Over time, I published several papers and even got patents. The key was not giving up.

Where do you work now? 

Right now, I work as the Head of Thin Film Research at a semiconductor company called IDEADED, based in Spain. I work with a team of scientists working on cutting-edge technologies that power the future like flexible electronics, semiconducting chips, and advanced materials.

What problems do you solve?

We solve problems related to how materials behave when they’re made super thin just a few atoms thick! These are called thin films, and they’re used in smartphones, solar panels, display screens, and more.

For example:

  • How can we make transparent electronics?
  • How do we design better materials for flexible gadgets?
  • How can we create energy-efficient coatings for future devices?

We mix physics, chemistry, electronics, and creativity to find these solutions.

What skills are needed for this job? How did you acquire them?

To do this job well, you need:

  • A strong understanding of physics, electronics, and material science
  • Experience with lab tools like PVD, ALD, CVD and RIE (used to make thin films)
  • Skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and scientific writing

I learned these through:

  • My BSc and MSc studies in Electronics
  • My PhD in Photonics, where I used these tools in real experiments
  • My postdoc in material science at Penn State University, USA
  • And most importantly — by constantly learning on the job and asking questions

What’s a typical day like?

Every day is a mix of science and strategy. Here’s what my day usually looks like:

  • Morning: I plan experiments, guide my team, or meet with other departments.
  • Midday: I go to the lab, run experiments, or check thin film samples under special microscopes.
  • Afternoon: I analyze results, discuss with my team, write reports or prepare research papers.
  • Some days: I attend global conferences or meetings with engineers to turn research into real products.

What is it you love about this job?

I love that I’m always learning something new. Every experiment is like solving a puzzle and when it works, it feels amazing!

I also love that my work today can help create the technologies of tomorrow from better technologies to smarter devices.

And most of all, I love mentoring young researchers and being part of a team that shares the same passion for innovation.

How does your work benefit society? 

I work in the field of semiconductors, which are the “brains” behind all modern electronics. My research focuses on thin films — ultra-thin layers of material used to build advanced semiconductor devices.

Here’s how this work is helping society today and shaping the future:

Enabling the Internet of Things (IoT)

Imagine a world where:

  • Your fridge reminds you to buy milk,
  • Your watch checks your heart rate and sends it to your doctor,
  • Your streetlights turn on only when needed to save energy.

This is the world of IoT — the Internet of Things, where millions of small devices talk to each other through sensors, chips, and wireless networks.

To make this possible, we need:

  • Tiny, low-power, high-efficiency semiconductors
  • Flexible and transparent electronics for wearables
  • Sensors that can work reliably anywhere

At IDEADED, I help design and improve these building blocks, so smart homes, smart cities, and smart healthcare systems can become real and affordable.

Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you!

One of the most special and memorable projects in my career was during my PhD research, where I worked on a transparent conductor, a material that is both see-through and able to conduct electricity.

We created something very unique: A transparent film that has less than 2% optical loss (so it lets almost all the light pass through), and a very low electrical resistance (less than 6 ohms per square), which means it can carry electric current very efficiently.

Why is this special?

Because it can be used in future technologies like:

  • Transparent solar panels (for windows that generate electricity!)
  • Flexible touchscreens
  • Wearable electronics
  • Smart glasses or augmented reality displays

This material is both ultra-clear and highly conductive, something that was very hard to achieve before. We published our findings in a top science journal, Nature Communications and that moment felt like a dream come true for me.

It was close to my heart because:

  • I spent months running experiments, failing, and trying again.
  • I got to collaborate with brilliant minds across the world.
  • And finally, the success of the project showed me that even someone from a small town in Kerala can contribute to global science.

This experience taught me patience, creativity, and the real joy of discovery.

You can read the paper here:
https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms13771

Your advice to students based on your experience?

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my journey from a small town in Wayanad to leading research in an international semiconductor company, it’s this:

Your background does not limit your future, your mindset does.

Here’s my advice to you:

1. Dream big, even if it feels impossible right now
I grew up reading books about Einstein, Marie Curie, and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. They showed me that you don’t need to be born with special powers, just a big dream and the courage to chase it.

2. Read. A lot.
Books changed my life. They opened my mind, gave me mentors I never met, and helped me think clearly. Find books that inspire you, science, stories, biographies and build your own little library.

3. Learn deeply, not just for marks
Try to understand your subjects, not just memorize them. Be curious. Ask “why” and “how”, that’s the beginning of science.

4. Be okay with failure: it means you’re trying
Many of my experiments failed before they succeeded. Research papers got rejected. But every failure taught me something new. Don’t give up. Every big success is built on small steps.

5. Find good mentors and friends
Your journey becomes easier when you have people who guide and support you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Good teachers, seniors, or even books can be your mentors.

Future Plans?

Looking ahead, I plan to continue my research in advanced semiconductor materials, especially in areas like transparent electronics, IoT devices, and green energy technologies. I want to take science beyond the lab and contribute to real-world innovations that make life better—whether it’s through smarter devices, sustainable energy solutions, or more efficient healthcare systems. Another important goal for me is to inspire and support young students, especially those from small towns like where I grew up. Ultimately, my dream is to keep learning, keep building, and play my part in shaping a future that’s driven by curiosity, compassion, and meaningful science.