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Conrad Rizal, PhD

SMIEEE (USA) CEng (The IET, UK)

Chief Executive Officer (CEO),

NexPico Inc., MA, USA

Chief Executive Officer & Principal Investigator (R&D),

Seed NanoTech International Inc., ON, Canada & Charleston, USA

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & President,

Sustainable Capacity Building and Innovation Foundation (SCBIF), ON, Canada

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

“Harnessing the infinitesimal to redefine the future: Nanotech, where innovation meets precision in next-generation sensor development.“

– Conrad Rizal, PhD

Over 100s research publications, including coference digests and patent and 100+ invited talks in Europe, Asia, America, etc. Journal editor and reviewer of nanophotonics, magnetics, nanomaterial, and plasmonic research works.

Click Here to Learn About My Research

A globally recognized scientist and entrepreneur specializing in next-generation nanotechnology. As Director of Seed NanoTech International Inc. (Canada) and CEO of NexPico Inc. (USA), he pioneers innovations in nanotechnology, quantum physics, and pico-scale systems.

A trailblazer in magneto-plasmonics, Dr. Rizal integrates magnetics, photonics, plasmonics, and dielectrics into unified platforms for ultra-sensitive sensor technologies. These innovations have wide-ranging applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and smart industry.

He holds advanced doctoral degrees from Japan and Canada, has authored 100+ peer-reviewed papers, and holds multiple international patents. As a Chartered Electrical Engineer and IEEE Senior Member, he bridges academic and industrial realms while mentoring future innovators.

Recent Research

Professional Profile

An internationally recognized authority and visionary researcher in silicon nanophotonics, nanoelectronics, and magneto-optics, Dr. Conrad Rizal spearheads pioneering advancements at the intersection of advanced materials science and intelligent systems. His current research focuses on engineering high-performance biocompatible nanostructures with advanced magneto-optical properties, alongside designing next-generation device architectures that seamlessly integrate intelligent nanomagnetics, magneto-optics, and nanophotonic platforms for real-world environmental, industrial, and technological breakthroughs.

Editorial & Peer Review Roles

Dr. Rizal actively serves on several editorial and advisory boards and reviews for leading scientific journals:

Associate Editor: IEEE Access, Journal of Nanomedicine Research
Editorial Board Member: Frontiers of Science, Journal of Nano Biomedicine
Reviewer: IEEE Magnetics, APS D, Electronics, IOP, Springer Optical Communications, MDPI Magnetochemistry, MDPI Photonics, and more

Achievements

Authored 10+ competitive research proposals (9 funded) across Canada, Japan, and the USA
Published 100+ peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, and technical digests
Delivered 50+ invited talks at leading academic and industrial institutions worldwide

Gold Medal (2013) – Awarded by the President of Nepal for global contributions to science and innovation
NSERC Industrial R&D Fellowship – Awarded by the Government of Canada (2012)
Volunteer Award – University of British Columbia (2008–2009)
Mitacs Elevate & NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship – Prestigious fellowships awarded for academic and research excellence

Global Contributions

Dr. Rizal is the Founder and Chair of the ICAPMOT Conference Series, an annual international platform connecting global scientists, academics, and business professionals in Canada and abroad. From 2016 to 2018, he served as a Visiting Research Scientist at Baylor University, Texas, collaborating with Prof. Howard Lee (now at University of California, Irvine) in cutting-edge research on plasmonics and sensor technology. Click Here to see his presentations.

PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY

2024 – Present: CEO at NexPico Inc., North Andover, MA, USA. Leading a tech-driven startup focused on next-generation pico-scale sensors and nanodevice innovation for industrial and medical applications.
2019 – Present: Principal Research Scientist at Seed NanoTech International Inc., Ontario, Canada. Overseeing sensor development, nanomaterial innovation, and international collaboration projects.
2019 – 2023: Globalink Advisor/Mentor for MITACS Canada at York University, Toronto, Canada. Provided mentorship and research guidance to international scholars under the MITACS Globalink program.
2016 – 2019: Research Scientist and Product Developer at GEM Systems Inc., Markham, ON, Canada. Focused on development and field testing of high-sensitivity magnetometers for geophysical applications.
2016 – 2018: MITACS Elevate Research Fellow at York University, Toronto, Canada. Conducted joint research on magneto-optical materials and sensing technologies under industry-academic partnership.
2012 – Present: Educator in universities and colleges across Canada and the USA. Taught multiple undergraduate courses and laboratory sessions in electrical, materials, and computer engineering fields.
2016 – 2016: Visiting Research Scientist at Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA. Managed advanced sputtering systems, performed optical simulations, and designed nanophotonic experiments and devices.
2014 – 2016: NSERC Postdoctoral Fellow at UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA. Led multiple research projects on metamaterials, magnetic nanostructures, and multilayer sensor design and characterization.
2012 – 2014: Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada. Directed biosensor research projects focusing on highly sensitive detection platforms for biomedical applications.
2006 – 2012: Doctoral Researcher leading four key projects on magneto-optical sensors, ultrafast photonic switches, and advanced nanoscale modulators in Japan and Canada.
2006 – 2010: Teaching Assistant at University of British Columbia, Canada. Delivered lab-based tutorials in electronics, supported academic development, and mentored students in circuit and material science labs

A Journey From MYAGDI, NEPAL TO ONTARIO, CANADA

The book, A Journey from Myagdi, Nepal to Ontario, Canada, is a third-person biographical account of Dr. Conrad Rizal’s life, tracing his remarkable transition from a humble childhood in the rural village of Toripani, Nepal, to becoming an internationally recognized scientist and innovator in Canada. It chronicles his early educational struggles, his formative years as a young teacher in Nepal, and his international academic progression, which began with undergraduate engineering studies at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). Driven by an enduring curiosity about light and the natural world, his journey later took him to Japan for graduate studies in nanoelectronics under the prestigious MEXT scholarship, and eventually to British Columbia, Canada, to advance his research in photonics. Beyond serving as a chronological memoir, the text acts as an inspirational guide for young readers and students, emphasizing how resilience, discipline, and a deep commitment to using science for the betterment of humanity can transform dreams into global impact. Every book sold helps support research and helps provide third world communities aquire the technology for cheaper.

Global Engagements & Key Presentations

Global Engagements & Presentations - 2026

Event: Canadian R&D Partnership Delegation for Maritime and Port Decarbonization
Role: Participant
Organized by: Trade Commissioner Service (TCS)
Location: Several Locations in France

Global Engagements & Presentations – 2025

Innovation Showcase Judge

Event: Toronto Metropolitan University (Canada)
Role: Judge
Organized by: TMU
Location: Toronto, Canada

Business, Management, Technology, Innovation, Leadership, Entrepreneurship

Event: International Conference on Business, Management and Technology (ICAPMOT) 2025 (Canada)
Role: Conference Chair
Organized by: Seed NanoTech International Inc.
Location: Brampton, Canada

Emerging Trends in Magneto-Plasmonic Sensors

Event: International Nanotech Forum 2025 (India)
Role: Guest Lecture
Organized by: IIT Delhi – International Nanotech Forum
Location: Delhi, India

Surface Plasmon Resonance and Magneto-Optics for Portable Devices

Event: Magneto-Optics Research Exchange 2024 (Indonesia)
Role: Guest Lecture
Organized by: University Gadjah Mada (UGM)
Location: Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Registered New Company – NexPico Inc.

Event: MIT Harbord, Boston University (USA)
Role: Guest Speaker
Organized by: MIT Harbord
Location: North Andover, Massachusetts

Global Engagements & Presentations – 2024

Pioneering Innovation from Research on Plasmonics and Magnetics Leading to Prototyping and Industrial Application

Role: Guest Lecture
Event: Research Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
Organized by: Bandung Institute of Technology
Location: Bandung, Indonesia

Strategies for Translating Research Outcomes into Products and Commercialization/Industrial Application

Role: Guest Lecture
Event: Research Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
Organized by: Bandung Institute of Technology
Location: Bandung, Indonesia

Magnetoplasmonic: Fundamentals and Industrial Applications

Role: Keynote Speaker
Event: Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Udayana University
Organized by: Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Udayana University
Location: Bali, Indonesia

Modern Magnetoplasmonics: Fundamental Research Leading to Prototyping and Industrial Applications

Role: Guest Lecture
Event: Udayana University
Organized by: Udayana University
Location: Bandung, Bali, Indonesia

What It Takes to Be a Successful Entrepreneur?

Role: Keynote Speaker
Event: Rotary Club of Birtamod
Organized by: Rotary Club of Birtamod
Location: Birtamod, Nepal

How to Become an Entrepreneur?

Role: Keynote Speaker
Event: Nepalese Young Entrepreneurs’ Forum (NYEF), Biratnagar
Organized by: NYEF Biratnagar
Location: Birtamod, Nepal

Nanotechnology Applications in Agriculture, Environment, and Biomedical Sectors – Current Status and Future Prospects of Nanotechnology

Role: Keynote Speaker
Event: Central Campus of Technology
Organized by: Central Campus of Technology
Location: Dharan, Nepal

Nanotechnology and Its Application

Role: Motivational Speaker
Event: Mid-West University Graduate School of Science and Technology
Organized by: Mid-West University Graduate School of Science and Technology
Location: Surkhet, Nepal

How to Become a Successful Entrepreneur?

Role: Motivational Speaker
Event: Manmohan Technical University
Organized by: Manmohan Technical University
Location: Morang, Nepal

Comparative Analysis of Research Commercialization: Translating Academic Research into Industrial Application

Role: Guest Speaker
Event: Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNIIT)
Organized by: IEEE Photonics Society
Location: Allahabad, India

Research Lab Visit, Meeting with Students and Professors, and Learning About Their Innovations

Role: Guest Speaker
Event: Indian Institutes of Information Technology
Organized by: University of Allahabad
Location: Allahabad, India

Visited with Faculty Members, Learned About Their Work, and Discussed Future Possible Collaboration

Role: Guest Speaker
Event: University of Allahabad
Organized by: University of Allahabad
Location: Allahabad, India

Enjoyed Japanese Hospitality and Cultural Activities in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan

Role: Guest Speaker
Event: Japanese Professors
Organized by: Japanese Professors
Location: Japan

Modern Magnetoplasmonics: Fundamental Research Leading to Prototyping and Industrial Application

Role: Guest Speaker
Event: Gadjah Mada University
Organized by: Gadjah Mada University
Location: Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Modern Magnetoplasmonics: Fundamental Research Leading to Prototyping and Industrial Application

Role: Guest Speaker
Event: Gadjah Mada University
Organized by: Gadjah Mada University
Location: Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Global Engagements & Presentations – 2023

Magneto-optic-Plasmonics & Its Potential in the Industry

Role: Guest Lecture
Event: Udayana University
Organized by: ITB Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Research Center (PPNN)
Location: Bandung City, Indonesia
Additional Information: Signed MOU with University of Udayana Bali for joint collaboration and information exchange and faculty visit.

Developing Nanostructures for Enhanced Surface Plasmon-Polariton Resonance Response (SPR) and Magnetic Activity-Enhanced Sensors

Role: Guest Lecture
Event: Science and Technology International Conference
Organized by: Udayana University
Location: Bali, Indonesia

What is Nanotechnology and Its Potential in the Environment and Biomedical Field

Role: Keynote Speaker
Event: Chaitanya Pathshala
Organized by: Chaitanya Pathshala
Location: Dhangadhi, Nepal

Revolutionizing Healthcare: Harnessing Nanotechnology and Biosensors for Pharmacy, Public Health, Nursing, and Lab Technology

Role: Keynote Speaker
Event: Purbanchal University
Organized by: Purbanchal University
Location: Gothgau, Nepal

Advancing Sensor Technologies for Environmental Monitoring

Role: Guest Lecture
Event: Nepal Tech and Innovation Symposium
Organized by: Tribhuvan University, Chemistry Department
Location: Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal

“Most Inspiring Career Success Stories” – A Global Journey That Begins from Nepal

Role: Keynote Speaker
Event: Human Capital Development Professionals Nepal
Organized by: Human Capital Development Professionals Nepal
Location: Kathmandu, Nepal

Nanotechnology, Robotics, and Cyber Security

Role: Motivational Speaker
Event: Aryan College
Organized by: Aryan College
Location: New Baneshwor, Nepal

Nanotechnology and Its Application – Future Prospects

Role: Motivational Speaker
Event: SAAN International College
Organized by: SAAN International College
Location: Gairidhara, Kathmandu, Nepal

Pioneering Innovations for Research on Plasmonics and Magnetics Leading to Prototyping and Industrial Applications

Role: Guest Lecture
Event: Udayana University
Organized by: Udayana University
Location: Bandung, Bali, Indonesia

Meeting with Mr. Mahabir Pun and Mr. Jha, Observed and Visited the Lab

Role: Innovation Center Visit
Event: National Innovation Centre
Location: Kathmandu, Kirtipur, Nepal

Global Engagements & Presentations – 2022

Journey from Engineer to Entrepreneur

Role: Invited Guest Speaker
Event: University visit for industry-academia partnership
Organized by: International School, Vietnam National University
Location: Hanoi, Vietnam

Plasmonics and Magneto-optics Technologies

Role: Session Co-chair with Erteror
Event: ICAPMOT
Organized by: Seed Nanotech International Inc.
Location: Brampton, ON, Canada

Global Engagements & Presentations – 2021

Plasmonics and Magneto-optics Technologies

Role: Session Co-chair
Event: ICAPMOT
Organized by: Seed Nanotech International Inc.
Location: Brampton, ON, Canada

Global Engagements & Presentations – 2019

Entrepreneurship and Leadership

Role: Keynote Speaker
Event: Global Citizen Summit
Organized by: OYES Foundation / International Youth Society
Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Global Engagements & Presentations – Beyond 2019

World Biosensor Congress

Event: World Biosensor Congress
Location: Florida, USA
Date: June 11-14, 2018

Russian Quantum Center

Event: Russian Quantum Center
Location: Moscow, Russia
Date: May 21-29, 2017

Texas A&M University

Event: Collaboration with Prof. Howard Lee
Location: Texas A&M University, USA
Date: July 14, 2016

Manufacturing & Trade-show Conference

Event: Manufacturing & Trade-show Conference
Location: Ohio, USA
Date: June 9, 2014

Sur/Fin Conference

Event: Sur/Fin Conference
Location: Chicago, USA
Date: May 20, 2013

Applied Magnetic Material Conference

Event: Applied Magnetic Material Conference
Location: Pori, Finland
Date: October 3, 2012

Conference Images

ACADEMIC PROFILE

BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT

2022-2023: Algonquin College – Ottawa Campus, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Postgraduate Diploma (Human Resources Management), (School of Business) Algonquin College, Canada. 2023 (GPA: A)

APPLIED SCIENCES AND ENGINEERING: NANO ELECTRONICS & NANOPHOTONICS

2006-2012: The University of British Columbia (UBC): Vancouver, BC, Canada. Ph.D. (Electrical and Computer Engineering), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. 2012. (GPA: 3.7/4.0)

1999-2004: Muroran Institute of Technology (MIT): Muroran, Hokkaido, Japan. MSc/DEng (Electrical and Electronic Engineering), Muroran Inst. of Technology, Muroran, Hokkaido, Japan. (GPA: 4.0/4.0)

FUNDAMENTAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING: ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

1988-1993: University of Engineering and Technology (BUET)
BSc (Electrical and Electronic Engineering), Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka, Bangladesh. (3.62/4.0)

1986-1988: Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu Kathmandu, Nepal.
Intermediate in Science (Physical Group), Amrit Science College, Kathmandu, Nepal. First Class (A+)

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

NexPico Inc.: North Andover, MA, USA.
2024-11-22 to present | Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Seed NanoTech International Inc.: Brampton, ON, Canada
2016-11-22 to present | Managing Director & Principal Investigator (R&D)

GEM Systems Inc.: Markham, Ontario, Canada
2016-10-01 to present | Research Scientist & Optical Engineer (R & D)

York University: Toronto, ON, Canada
2016-10-01 to 2018-09-01 | Researcher (Electrical Engineering and Computer Science)

University of California San Diego: La Jolla, California, USA
2014-06-06 to 2016-06-05 | Postdoctoral Researcher (Center for Magnetic Recording Research)

University of Victoria: Victoria, BC, Canada
2012-09-02 to 2014-05-31 | Postdoc Fellow (Faculty of Applied Science)

Venues Electrical Training and Construction Est. Doha, Qatar
1996-06-01 to 1997-07-01 | Electrical and Electronic Engineer

Additional Photonics Expertise & Accomplishments

Dr. Conrad Rizal is a passionate innovator with a strong track record of applying technology for both scientific and commercial success. Holding a Ph.D. in Photonics from Canada and a Doctor of Engineering in Nanoelectronics from Japan, he brings a rare, global perspective to cutting-edge research and product development.

With over 12 years of experience in the design and modeling of magneto-optical and photonic integrated devices, Dr. Rizal extensively utilizes industry-standard simulation tools, including COMSOL Multiphysics, Lumerical (FDTD, MODE, CHARGE), and MATLAB. His comprehensive modeling portfolio includes photonic bandgap devices, grating couplers, ring resonators, and multiplexers tailored for both academic and industrial applications.

Complementing his design expertise, he brings more than 10 years of hands-on nanofabrication experience operating within cleanroom environments across Japan, the USA, and Canada. His technical proficiency spans from intricate mask layout utilizing DW-2000 and the design integration of nanophotonic libraries, to comprehensive SOI wafer fabrication, etching process control, and device packaging. Notably, he has designed compact 1.6 × 1.6 mm² masks and led fabrication processes using 6” D2F wafers with vertical fiber couplers.

Dr. Rizal has effectively established pilot-scale manufacturing setups, contributed to European silicon photonics collaborations, and supported process redesigns and reliability testing with commercial foundries. His work heavily leverages DFX (Design for Excellence), SPC (Statistical Process Control), and DFR (Design for Reliability) methodologies, with a dedicated focus on waveguide devices—such as Y-branches, couplers, and tapers—to drive yield improvement strategies.

Ultimately, Dr. Rizal’s background seamlessly bridges complex technical problem-solving with the commercial insight necessary to develop market-ready technologies. With integrated strengths in device design, system architecture, statistical methods, and long-term reliability, he stands as a valuable asset capable of consistently delivering impactful and scalable nanophotonic solutions.