In Memoriam: Prof. Katayun (Katy) Barmak

With a heavy heart, the Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics and Columbia Engineering mourn the passing of Prof. Katayun (Katy) Barmak, the Philips Electronics Professor of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics.

Professor Barmak’s research explored the fundamental nature of materials to understand their structure and physics at nano-, micro-, and macro-scales, and how they impact material properties and, ultimately, the performance of engineered systems. Professor Barmak was instrumental in establishing and leading the cutting-edge  transmission electron microscopy facility within the Columbia Nano Initiative where she conducted her studies. Her particular interests included materials synthesis, structure, and phase transformations, especially for electronic and magnetic thin films and nanomaterials. 

With a BA and MA from the University of Cambridge, and PhD in materials science from MIT, Professor Barmak joined Columbia Engineering in 2011 as the Philips Electronics Professor of Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, and Materials Science and Engineering, and served as the Director of the Materials Science and Engineering Program from 2013 to 2019. Prior to  joining Columbia, she was a professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University from 1999 to 2011 and held faculty positions at Lehigh University from 1992 to 1998, where she also co-directed the Thin Film Laboratory. Earlier in her career, Professor Barmak spent three years at the IBM T.J. Watson Research Center and the IBM East Fishkill Development Laboratory, and served as a visiting scientist there from 1998 to 2004. 

During her time at Columbia, Professor Barmak received widespread recognition for her outstanding research and leadership. With over 200 publications and 5 patents, honors include selection as a 2026 Fellow of the Materials Research Society (MRS), 2023 Fellow of ASM International, and a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) in 2019.  She was also an exemplary teacher and mentor and was awarded the 2017 School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) Edward and Carol Kim Award for Faculty Involvement, to honor Columbia faculty who are excellent teachers and show a personal commitment to students.  

The Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics at Columbia Engineering greatly benefited from Professor Barmak’s dedication, vision, and leadership. Her creativity, commitment, and guidance made a lasting impact on colleagues, students, and the broader academic community. Her devotion to advancing knowledge, mentoring young scientists, and fostering collaboration will continue to inspire everyone fortunate enough to have worked with her. We are all better for having known her, and she will be dearly missed.  

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In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to local charities enriching children’s lives (Muscoot Farm or Teatown Lake Reservation) in memory of Prof. Katayun Barmak. She was an avid supporter of both organizations for many years. 

Video and photos of the Columbia Memorial Service celebrating Professor Barmak on May 7, 2026