Dr.  Fanton is a Research Professor, and head of the Undersea Materials and Prototypes Department within the Penn State University Applied Research Laboratory.  He leads materials synthesis efforts related to advanced dielectric and  piezoelectric textured ceramic materials, ceramics for extreme environments, and single crystal semiconductor and optical materials.  Dr. Fanton has 30 years of experience as a materials scientist in both commercial and government sponsored research and technology transfer related to ceramic formulations, material process technology, and crystal growth.  Prior to joining Penn State Dr. Fanton spent eight years in commercial manufacturing and product development with a focus on powdered metal, amorphous metal alloys, and ceramic magnetic materials for applications ranging from energy efficient power conversion to power supplies for high temperature aerospace applications.