Dr. David Etor
University of Jos
Spring 2022
Dr. David Etor is a Lecturer in the School of Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bristol. A Spring 2022 MIT-ETT Fellow originally from the University of Jos, he is a specialist in Microsystems Technology and Electromechanical Systems. His career spans both academia and high-level industry, having worked as a MEMS Technologist at Collins Aerospace before returning to university teaching. His research focuses on the development of Metal-Insulator-Metal (MIM) Diodes for energy harvesting. He investigates how these nanoscale devices can capture waste thermal energy and convert it into usable electricity. Specifically, he works on optimizing the “work function” of different metals to improve the rectification efficiency of these diodes. This technology is critical for creating “Rectennas” that can harvest infrared radiation or harvest power for autonomous sensors in remote environments. Dr. Etor holds a Ph.D. in Engineering from Durham University, UK and an M.Sc. from Newcastle University. He is the author of the widely used textbook “Design Principles for Modern Rotating Electromechanical Machines,” which addresses the thermal management deficiencies often overlooked in standard electrical machine design. Following his time at MIT, Dr. Etor became a passionate advocate for Peer Instruction and active learning. He served on the International Advisory Board for the Symposium on Problem-Based Learning, working with colleagues from MIT and Harvard to transform how engineering is taught globally. He continues to research how public engagement can improve the societal understanding of engineering
