Murata supports my dream of building a bridge between cultures, technologies & people

Americas
Joined in 2016

Seth Berbano

Technology Strategy & Innovation, Specialist

01 Why Murata?

I decided to work at a company instead of a National Laboratory or University because I wanted to commercialize materials science R&D (Research & Development). I first learned of Murata during my Ph.D. at Pennsylvania State University. Murata was a member of the Center for Dielectrics and Piezoelectrics, an industry-university consortium supported in part by the US National Science Foundation. The professors I worked with, Murata, and other consortium members educated me on the importance of bridging fundamental research from academia and applied research from industry.

Finally, I chose Murata because of my interest in Japanese culture and because Murata is a global leader in technology and cutting-edge products and solutions.

02 Your Career

Murata has allowed me to have excellent learning and experiences in R&D, marketing, and engineering.
I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of roles in the US and Japan. For example, materials science research, new business creation, new business incubation, and technology strategy.
I have been a supporter and driver of university collaborations, Wellness / Healthcare / Medical and Mobility / Automotive projects, Engineering (including factory line start up), and new customer developments. As a recognition of my accomplishments, I was honored to receive a Murata Electronics Americas President’s Award!

Our current team’s goal is to prepare for the company’s 2030+ future by exploring technology areas such as 6G, Optical / Semiconductor, Environment, Bioelectronics, Robotics and Space. “Exploration” is very broad and include collaboration with universities and investment in startups. As a result, we shape Murata’s corporate strategy in these important new areas.

03 Vision for the Future

My dream is to be a bridge builder. I want to bridge cultures (US & Japan), functions (technology & marketing), research (fundamental & applied), sectors (public & private), and fields (materials science & life science).
I am eager to build and work with a passionate team who will positively impact the world. Shorter term, I would like to be instrumental in launching a new Layer 3* business. Longer term, I would like to set the strategic direction of R&D activities.

Layer 3 refers to the creation of new business models. For more information, please see
https://corporate.murata.com/en-global/company/business-strategy/vision2030/growthstrategy1/layer3

Murata for you

What do you think about Murata?

Before joining Murata, I acknowledged Murata as global company with high quality people & technology.

After joining Murata, my initial impression of Murata's people and technology has not changed. I am always surprised by the various functions and teams around the world. There are plenty of opportunities for internal networking and learning by changing your team and work location for professional and personal growth.

Personal Life

Like many companies, Murata offers work from home flexibility. Even for roles that are primarily in the laboratory or factory, it can make sense to sometimes WFH (work from home) to do data analysis. Many people flex their time to support their families. Open communication with your manager is key.
Outside of work, I like spending time with family, college football (Iowa State University, Pennsylvania State University) and music (Crowder, Coldplay, Cageless Birds, etc.).

*As of the end of 2024.