Central State University junior Kayvon Adderley honored for research excellence at HBCU CHIPS Network Conference

Above: Central State University junior Kayvon Adderley (second from left), recipient of the HBCU CHIPS Network Student Achievement in Microelectronics Award, stands with the CSU team of (from left) Dr. Mubbashar Khan, Dr. Mohammadreza Hadizadeh, and Dr. Leanne Petry.

Kayvon Adderley, a junior at Central State University majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Mathematics, received the prestigious HBCU CHIPS Network Student Achievement in Microelectronics Award during the 2025 HBCU CHIPS Network Conference at Howard University in Washington, D.C. 

Adderley, the only undergraduate recipient this year, alongside two graduate students, was awarded a $1,000 cash prize. His selection was based on a rigorous evaluation of his research work and academic performance.  

“Being the only undergraduate student recognized at the conference showed me that the time and effort I’ve put into my work hasn’t been for nothing and that I’m truly contributing to my field,” Adderley said. “It was both humbling and inspiring.” 

Over the past two years, he has been deeply involved in computational projects under the mentorship of Dr. Mohammadreza Hadizadeh, presenting at two American Physical Society conferences and making significant contributions to the application of computational techniques to quantum few-body systems, including 2D quantum materials.  

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“Kayvon’s achievements are not only a testament to his hard work and talent but also highlight the strength of our academic programs and the supportive environment our university fosters for its students,” Dr. Hadizadeh said. 

“We are incredibly proud of Kayvon and look forward to his continued success," Dr. Hadizadeh added. 

Adderley’s academic and practical skills have further been recognized through his selection as an intern for Central State’s Intel-sponsored summer internship at SUNY Binghamton in 2024. He continues this trajectory as a selected participant for the upcoming 2025 internship program at the University of Michigan.  

Adderley credits Central State for playing a pivotal role in his development. “The faculty has consistently indulged my curiosity, encouraging me to ask questions, explore beyond the syllabus, and dive deeper into topics that excite me,” he explained, highlighting the university's commitment to fostering student curiosity and academic exploration.  

Kayvon sees this latest award as a key moment in his academic journey. “This award is both a milestone and a huge motivator. It reassures me that I’m on the right track and that all the time and effort I’ve put into learning and research is starting to pay off.”