Forging the Future: Fusion, AI, and Leadership with Dr. Tomás Díaz de la Rubia

In this episode, Dr. Pollard speaks with Dr. Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, Senior Vice President for Research and Partnerships at the University of Arizona. The discussion traces his early academic foundations in physics, the mentors who shaped his development, and the role of persistence in undergraduate research.  Dr. Díaz de la Rubia provides an accessible overview of fusion energy—how laser-driven fusion works, why it represents a significant clean-energy opportunity, and what obstacles still limit commercial viability. He also outlines the university’s growing initiatives in artificial intelligence, including applications in healthcare, national security, mining, and space science.  The episode highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration across research domains and concludes with reflections on leadership, career growth, and Dr. Díaz de la Rubia’s personal interest in wine.