Samuel Escobar Veras is a Senior Lead Material Test Engineer and Physical Scientist with over a decade of experience in materials science, data analysis, and AI-driven technologies. Samuel has established himself as an expert at the intersection of physical sciences and artificial intelligence, with a focus on material synthesis, characterization techniques, and advanced data processing. Samuel’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Physics from the University of Puerto Rico, where he developed a strong foundation in scientific research and a deep interest in materials science. He went on to earn a Master of Science in Material Science and Engineering from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, where he gained expertise in material characterization, synthesis, and analysis. Later, he started his PhD in Chemical Physics at the University of Puerto Rico, focusing on advanced techniques for materials synthesis and characterization, particularly in carbon-based and nanostructured materials. His academic background combines a rich understanding of both theoretical principles and practical applications. Currently, Samuel applies his dual expertise in physical sciences and AI within the private sector, leading efforts in developing, assessing, and transferring innovative technologies to support U.S. government projects across fields such as materials science and AI-ML. His role involves advancing solutions that integrate AI with materials research, contributing to projects that demand high-level technical insight and innovation. Samuel’s career has also included impactful roles in government organizations. At the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, he led research initiatives focused on nuclear safety and advanced materials, while his work at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) contributed to PFAS research and materials analysis. He has also held positions at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, where he worked on perovskite synthesis and characterization, and NASA Langley Research Center, where he conducted groundbreaking studies on nanomaterials for extreme environments. In each of these roles, Samuel has been recognized for his commitment to scientific rigor and innovation, contributing to advancements in safety standards, regulatory practices, and materials science. An accomplished author, Samuel has produced numerous technical reports and publications, reflecting his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and technological innovation. His published work spans topics from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighter gear to novel materials, showcasing the breadth of his expertise. Samuel’s career reflects a continuous drive toward scientific discovery and practical application, positioning him as a vital contributor to fields such as defense technology, regulatory science, and material innovation.