In the dynamic landscape of mechanical engineering, Professor Jingjing Shi stands out as a visionary dedicated to advancing energy transport and conversion. Her specialized focus on thermal management within semiconductor systems is not only revolutionizing electronic device performance but also contributing significantly to a sustainable and technologically advanced society.
Professor Shi’s journey into mechanical engineering was fueled by a deep-seated passion for math and physics. “I was drawn to mechanical engineering because of my early interest in math and physics,” she explains. This foundational interest naturally led her to explore the intricate realms of energy transport and conversion. “My fascination with energy transport and conversion was sparked by two main factors: firstly, the philosophical implications of fundamental energy-related principles taught in courses like thermodynamics—such as the first law of conservation of energy and the second law dealing with entropy—captivated me. Secondly, I was intrigued by how these principles explain everyday phenomena, such as why ice melts, how refrigerators keep food cold, and how the sun keeps us warm.”
Professor Shi’s academic path was marked by excellence and insightful discoveries. “My academic journey began with a profound interest in the concepts of internal energy, enthalpy, entropy, and free energy, culminating in achieving the highest score in my undergraduate thermodynamics class.” This achievement not only highlighted her proficiency but also deepened her appreciation for how foundational knowledge can be applied to solve real-world engineering problems. Her shift towards thermal management in electronics was somewhat unexpected yet perfectly aligned with emerging industry challenges. “My focus on thermal management in electronics developed somewhat serendipitously, as I became aware of the significant thermal challenges within the electronics industry at the time I was choosing my research focus.”
At the core of Professor Shi’s research is the critical task of managing heat in semiconductor systems. “Addressing thermal challenges in semiconductor systems is crucial across a wide range of applications, from civilian to military, impacting both performance and reliability.” Effective thermal management ensures that everyday devices like smartphones and laptops operate within safe temperature limits, preventing overheating and prolonging their lifespan. “High temperatures can reduce performance and accelerate component aging,” she notes, a concern familiar to anyone who has experienced a sluggish, overheated device during intense usage.
One of Professor Shi’s standout projects involves the thermal management of silicon carbide (SiC) power modules. “I am currently focusing on the thermal management of silicon carbide (SiC) power modules to reduce their maximum operating temperatures.” SiC components offer superior properties over traditional silicon-based semiconductors, such as higher thermal conductivity and the ability to operate at elevated temperatures. This makes them ideal for demanding applications like electric vehicles (EVs). “In electric vehicles, maximizing the potential of SiC power modules through efficient thermal management is crucial,” she emphasized. Enhanced thermal management allows EVs to achieve better performance and reliability, addressing key concerns in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market.
The implications of Professor Shi’s research extend far beyond the laboratory. “Effective thermal management in the semiconductor industry has far-reaching societal and economic implications, enhancing device performance, efficiency, and reliability.” By reducing energy consumption and extending device lifespans, her work contributes to lower operational costs and decreased electronic waste, fostering sustainable consumption patterns. Additionally, advancements in thermal management enable the development of cutting-edge technologies such as faster-charging electric vehicles and next-generation communication networks beyond 5G. “These technological advancements stimulate economic growth by creating new markets and industries,” Shi explains, highlighting the broader impact of her work on both the economy and society.
Professor Shi envisions her work playing a pivotal role in the advancement of renewable energy and communication technologies. “Thermal management of electronics is crucial in driving advancements across several critical fields, including renewable energy and communication technologies.” In renewable energy systems like solar inverters and wind turbine converters, effective thermal management ensures these devices operate efficiently under variable and harsh environmental conditions. Similarly, as communication technologies evolve towards 6G and beyond, managing the increasing power density in equipment is essential for maintaining reliability and performance.
Despite the significant progress, Professor Shi acknowledges the challenges inherent in her research. “A major challenge in my research has been simulating real-world conditions accurately.” To address this, her team has developed sophisticated models and conducted rigorous experimental measurements to refine their approaches. Collaboration is key to overcoming these hurdles. “Our research in nanoscale energy transport and thermal management of electronics is highly interdisciplinary. For academic collaboration, partnering with material scientists, electrical engineers, chemical engineers, and physicists would be ideal. For industry collaboration, working with leading semiconductor manufacturers would be beneficial.” Such partnerships are essential for translating theoretical advancements into practical solutions that push the boundaries of current technology.
Professor Shi is not only a researcher but also a mentor guiding aspiring engineers. “As a mechanical engineer, I would advise aspiring researchers to stay curious, be persistent, follow the latest technology breakthroughs, and keep talking to people, especially in different areas,” she said. She emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary opportunities, believing that future challenges will require innovative solutions that blend knowledge from various fields. Her own career exemplifies this philosophy, as she seamlessly integrates principles from solid-state physics and statistical thermodynamics with practical engineering applications.
Outside the rigors of research, Professor Shi finds balance and inspiration in her personal interests. “Outside of my professional work, I enjoy reading novels and playing video games. These activities help me relax and sometimes provide a fresh perspective when I return to my work.” These hobbies not only offer relaxation but also spark creativity, allowing her to approach complex problems with renewed vigor and innovative thinking.
Professor Jingjing Shi’s contributions to mechanical engineering and thermal management are instrumental in shaping a sustainable and efficient future. Her dedication to exploring both the philosophical and practical dimensions of energy transport and conversion underscores the profound impact that thoughtful engineering can have on society. “I stay motivated by focusing on the connection between fundamental theoretical knowledge, such as solid-state physics and statistical thermodynamics, and their real-world applications,” she shares. As she continues to push the envelope, Professor Shi remains a pivotal figure in the quest to harness energy more effectively, ensuring that the devices and systems we rely on today can meet the demands of tomorrow.
Through her innovative research, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, Professor Jingjing Shi exemplifies the transformative power of engineering. Her work not only advances technology but also fosters a more sustainable and reliable world, making her a true leader in her field.
Story & Editing by: Vera Lucia Pappaterra Genao
Design & Editing by: Vera Lucia Pappaterra Genao
Marketing & Communications Student Assistant
UF Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
January 15, 2025