Prof. Ilona Piekarz, AGH University of Krakow, Poland
I AM...a Microwave Detective providing sensing services for your health and safety!
What made you want to work in this industry?
I’ve always been the person who needs to know how things work. That curiosity pulled me into electronics, but even after finishing my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, I realized I was still full of questions. So, I dove into a PhD—and that’s where I discovered the beauty and mystery of microwave engineering. Unlike conventional electronics, at high frequencies, things behave in unpredictable ways. What should work sometimes doesn’t, and that challenge is exactly what drew me in. It’s like solving a puzzle that no one has fully figured out yet.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love the detective work—when something doesn’t function as expected, and I need to dig deep to understand why. That process of searching, testing, and discovering is incredibly satisfying. I also get a lot of joy out of applying engineering to meaningful problems. For me, human health is the most important and fascinating area we can impact. That’s why my research focuses on using microwave technology to detect harmful bacteria or toxins in food—finding ways to make life safer, smarter, and healthier. I also look forward pushing the boundaries with hands-on experimentation—like using 3D printing to quickly prototype and test new ideas.
On top of that, having completed my habilitation, I now serve as an associate professor at the AGH University of Krakow —and I find purpose in passing on knowledge to the next generation of engineers and researchers. Inspiring curiosity in others and seeing their ideas take shape is one of the most rewarding parts of my career.
What are you most excited about for IMS2025?
As the Technical Program Committee Pre-Conference Tutorial Chair, I’m especially excited about what happens before the main event even starts. Online tutorials presented by recognized experts in the field are meant to give an overview of the scope of the conference and get the prospective attendees excited before the event. It’s a space where experts and newcomers meet to explore the why and how behind our field. I'm passionate about creating an engaging space where attendees can sharpen their skills, get inspired, and maybe even spark their next big breakthrough. IMS2025 in San Fransisco is going to be full of energy, innovation, and connection—and I’m thrilled to be a part of making that happen