Student Spotlight: Liming Li

Liming Li is a Ph.D. candidate conducting research under Professor Imin Kao. He received his Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Stony Brook University and has been nominated for the “Student Spotlight” for Spring 2019.

Share a little bit about yourself.

I am a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. I came to Stony Brook University from China in 2013 for the graduate program. As other Ph.D. students in Engineering, I spend a long time in the lab. However, whenever there is a chance, I like to experience various activities outside of the lab.

What interested you in coming to Stony Brook University?

SBU has a strong background in engineering and is located at a beautiful place of Long Island with four distinct seasons. It also gives us the opportunity to experience the NYC atmosphere with different activities, such as Broadway shows and various museums.

What advice do you have for incoming international student?

Don’t be shy to speak in English even if you are not a native speaker. Stony Brook has a friendly atmosphere. Feel free to speak with people or ask for help. That will help you to adapt to the life sooner at Stony Brook.

What is the most rewarding part of being an international student?

Since international students are usually new to the place, everyone would be eager to explore different aspects of life. By meeting new people and making friends, we get a chance to learn various cultures from people from different countries.

Why did you choose to pursue a Ph.D.?

Ph.D. study brings me a chance to extend my research in a more specific area. It can provide me a strong background in research and can also help further my career.

What type of research are you conducting? What are your research goals?

I am conducting research in wire saw manufacturing in semiconductor and photovoltaics manufacturing. My research goal is to investigate its slicing mechanism and try to improve its slicing efficiency and quality.

When do you plan to graduate? What do you plan to do after graduation?

I plan to graduate next year in 2020. I prefer to extend my research career, so a Post-doc or R&D position job would be my first choice.

Are you involved in any activities, clubs, or professional organizations?

Our campus has various interesting events for students. I have tasted different strawberry-inspired treats at the Strawberry Festival, experienced exciting homecoming football games, watched our annual Roth Pond Regatta, and more.

What advice do you have for incoming Ph.D. students?

It would be great to talk to professors in the areas you are interested in and join their group meeting to know more about their research. Learn the topic to get used to your life in the lab early on, but it is also important to take a break and enjoy the daily life.

Can you share a fun fact about you?

I love hiking and visiting national parks to enjoy the natural environment. I am also a big Broadway fan and enjoy watching shows as often as possible.