Empowering Minds Through Science, Innovation, and Collaboration

As an educator, I aim to bridge fundamental physics with real-world applications, inspiring students to tackle global challenges in healthcare, energy, and technology. My teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking, hands-on experimentation, and interdisciplinary problem-solving, preparing students to thrive in academia, industry, and beyond.

Teaching Philosophy

Science is not just about facts—it’s about curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. In my classes and labs, I prioritize:

  • Active Learning: Engaging students through project-based assignments, debates, and case studies.

  • Interdisciplinary Connections: Linking physics to materials engineering, AI, and biomedicine.

  • Ethics & Impact: Encouraging discussions on the societal implications of scientific advancements.

Core Values:
🔍 “Understand deeply, question boldly, and innovate responsibly.”

Courses Taught

Graduate Programs

  • Advanced Materials Physics (M.Sc./Ph.D.)
    Topics: Multiferroics, magnetic nanoparticles, AI-driven materials design.
    Featured Project: “Predicting ceramic properties using machine learning” (student-led AI models).

  • Materials Characterization Techniques (M.Sc./Ph.D.)
    Hands-on training: XRD, electron microscopy, dielectric/magnetic measurements.

Undergraduate Courses

  • Solid-State Physics
    Focus: Crystal structures, phase transitions, and applications in microelectronics.

  • Introduction to Nanotechnology
    Lab Component: Synthesizing nanoparticles via sol-gel and hydrothermal methods.

Specialized Workshops

  • AI for Materials Science (Open to all STEM students)
    Tools: Python, TensorFlow, and materials informatics platforms.

Mentorship & Student Success

I mentor students at all levels, guiding them through research projects, publications, and career development:

Graduate Students

  • Supervised 15+ M.Sc./Ph.D. students in Physics and Environmental Biotechnology programs.

  • Recent PhD Graduates:

    • Dr. Ana Silva: Now a postdoc at MIT, developing multiferroic sensors for wearable tech.

    • Dr. Carlos Mendes: Lead scientist at EMBRAPA, pioneering sustainable nanomaterials for agriculture.

Undergraduate Research

  • Host summer interns in my lab for projects like “Magnetic hyperthermia for cancer therapy” and “AI-optimized solar materials.”

  • Awards: Student teams I mentored won 3 national prizes at the Brazilian Materials Science Symposium (2022, 2023).

Innovative Teaching Methods

  • AI-Enhanced Learning: Use machine learning platforms to simulate material behaviors (e.g., predicting phase diagrams in real time).

  • Virtual Labs: Developed open-access online modules for neutron diffraction analysis during the pandemic.

  • Industry Collaborations: Partner with companies like Petrobras and EMBRARAD for case studies on materials in energy/healthcare.

Featured Initiative:
🤖 “The Smart Materials Challenge” – A semester-long competition where student teams design AI-driven solutions for sustainability (e.g., zero-carbon energy materials).

Resources for Students

  • Lecture Notes & Syllabi: Access course materials for Solid-State Physics and AI for Materials Science.

  • Research Opportunities: Explore open projects in my lab here.

  • Career Guidance: Book office hours for CV reviews, grant writing tips, or PhD application advice.

Teaching Recognition

  • 2022: UEM Excellence in Teaching Award for innovative integration of AI into curricula.

  • 2021: Featured in Brazilian Physics Education Journal for my project-based learning framework.

Join My Classes

Whether you’re a UEM student or a visiting scholar, I welcome passionate learners eager to explore the frontiers of materials science and technology.

Prospective Students:

  • 📧 Email: lfcotica@uem.br (Include “Prospective Student” in the subject line.)

  • 📅 Office Hours: Wednesdays 2:00–4:00 PM (Department of Physics, Room 305).

Current Students:

Rolar para cima