Field and Wave Electromagnetics for the Benefit of Society
Speaker: Samel Arslanagić
We live in an electromagnetic world. Nearly everything we experience—except gravity—is governed by phenomena caused by electric charges. In this session, Samel Arslanagić brings the fundamentals of electromagnetics into focus, revealing why this field quietly underpins modern life and why it remains one of the most societally impactful areas of science and engineering.
At Futures Leaders Summit 2025, this talk introduces the basics of electromagnetic fields and waves, placing them in the context of real-world applications that shape communication, sensing, medicine, and beyond.
From Fundamental Science to Everyday Impact
Electromagnetics forms the scientific foundation of all electro-technology. From wireless communication and radar systems to medical imaging and climate monitoring, modern society rests on principles developed through field and wave theory.
This session demystifies these fundamentals and shows how abstract concepts translate into technologies we rely on daily—often without realizing their origins.
Research at the Frontier of Electromagnetics
Drawing on his own research, Samel presents concrete examples that illustrate how theory becomes impact. These include:
Artificial materials and metasurfaces, enabling unprecedented control over electromagnetic waves
Super-directive antennas and particle-based scatterers, pushing the limits of performance and miniaturization
High-accuracy antenna measurements, essential for validating next-generation systems
Across all examples, the talk emphasizes the importance of combining theoretical insight, numerical modeling, and experimental validation—a hallmark of impactful engineering research.
Enabling Next-Generation Systems
The applications discussed extend far beyond academic interest. Electromagnetic research plays a critical role in:
Next-generation communication systems
Weather and climate sensing
Defense and security technologies
Biomedical applications and diagnostics
By connecting foundational science to these domains, the session highlights why electromagnetics remains central to addressing global challenges.
Pathways for Future Researchers
To support the diverse audience at FLS 2025, Samel also introduces his host university, department, and research division, including state-of-the-art facilities such as the world-renowned DTU–ESA Antenna Test Facility. The talk outlines relevant courses and learning pathways for students interested in pursuing this field of high societal relevance.
This session serves both as an introduction and an invitation—to explore a discipline where fundamental science directly contributes to the benefit of society.