Daniel Smalley, Ph.D., a professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Brigham Young University, has been selected for a Fulbright Specialist Program award. As part of this opportunity, he will travel to the University of Tsukuba in Japan for a six-week project focused on advancing directional volumetric display technology.
The Fulbright Specialist Program brings U.S. experts to institutions around the world to share knowledge and build meaningful, long-term collaborations. Dr. Smalley was chosen in recognition of his academic work, leadership, and the potential for this project to strengthen ties between BYU and the University of Tsukuba.
Pushing Forward Volumetric Display Research
For six weeks this summer, Dr. Smalley will focus on developing directional volumetric displays. A key advantage of this collaboration is access to the world’s largest acoustophoretic platform at Tsukuba.
Dr. Smalley shared that one of his main goals is to create a large directional image using this specialized equipment. The experience will also support ongoing work at BYU, where his team plans to take what they learn from large sound-based displays and apply those insights to smaller, light-based systems back home. He noted that Japan was a natural choice for this project because of its unique expertise and equipment that are not readily available elsewhere.
A Focus on Learning and Long-Term Impact
In addition to research, the project will include writing and presentations, creating a well-rounded academic experience. It will also provide valuable opportunities for students. One graduate student and one undergraduate student will accompany Dr. Smalley to Japan and take part in the work. The collaboration is designed to continue beyond the initial six-week visit. The graduate student will remain at the University of Tsukuba to help carry the project forward, and the team hopes to secure additional funding for future visits and continued partnership.
A Meaningful Milestone
For Dr. Smalley, who has previously visited Japan, this award marks an exciting step forward. He sees it as a chance to deepen international collaboration and lay the groundwork for impactful, world-class research.
The Fulbright Program has supported hundreds of thousands of scholars and scientists since its founding, helping them work together across borders to address global challenges. Dr. Smalley now joins a distinguished community of Fulbright participants dedicated to advancing knowledge and collaboration worldwide.