Samira Daneshmandi

Background

About Samira Daneshmandi

Expertise & Impact Strategic and data-driven engineer with over 10 years of combined academic and industry experience in thin film materials, solid-state lithium-metal battery manufacturing, and energy storage innovation. Played a key leadership role in QuantumScape's manufacturing scale-up, including new process introduction (NPI), automation integration, yield improvement, and defect classification for ceramic separators. Expert in applying statistical tools (JMP, Python) and advanced imaging (SEM/FIB/EDS, Micro-CT, VHX/VK, XRD) for process development and failure analysis. Demonstrated success in cross-functional collaboration and technology transfer from R&D to pilot and production environments. Equally adept at semiconductor-grade tool qualification, UHV thin-film process development and SPC/MES integration. Conducted advanced research in thin-film growth and surface science & engineering using a custom MBE-STM/S system integrated with RHEED, oxygen plasma, and e-beam evaporation at the Texas Center for Superconductivity. Skilled in advanced surface and failure characterization techniques and passionate about bridging materials innovation with scalable manufacturing solutions. Motivation The battery industry is at an inflection point. As we transition toward electrification and sustainability at scale, my goal is to accelerate the industrialization of game-changing energy storage technologies—driving performance, cost efficiency, and environmental impact at the same time. I am also deeply motivated to contribute to the semiconductor industry—a field that drives the backbone of modern technology and global innovation. With a background in advanced manufacturing, materials engineering, and data-driven process optimization, I’m excited by the challenge of scaling complex systems with precision and reliability. I thrive in fast-paced, cross-functional environments and am passionate about accelerating technology from R&D to high-volume production. My goal is to help push the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and integration across next-generation energy storage & semiconductor technologies. I am passionate about building high-performance teams, fostering strategic partnerships, and navigating complex challenges to ensure that innovation translates into real-world impact.