Texas A&M alumna electric motor co-founder named fellow by national entrepreneurship program
By: Kimora Butler and Crystal Carter
Dorsa Talebi selected by Activate Fellowship Program
Texas A&M alumna Dorsa Talebi has been selected for the 12th cohort for Activate. Talebi is recognized for her work as co‑founder of Simora Core. Talebi and co-founders Dr. Hamid Toliyat and Mehdi Seyedi’s startup builds electric motors that eliminate the need for rare-earth magnets and their supply-chain risks. With her leadership and a Ph.D. in electrical engineering at the electric machine and power electronics (EMPE) lab at Texas A&M University, she is at the forefront of magnet‑free motor innovation.
Simora Core: Redefining Motor Technology
Electric motors power everything from vehicles to industrial equipment, HVAC systems, and household appliances. Despite their widespread use, most motors rely on rare‑earth permanent magnets—materials that are expensive, environmentally harmful to mine, and sourced from only a few countries. Simora Core is working to change that reality.
The company’s motor design powers the rotor through its own windings, removing the need for brushes, slip rings, excitation hardware, or permanent magnets. This innovation creates a magnet‑free, contact‑free, compact, and lower‑cost motor that can be applied across multiple industries. By reducing dependence on rare‑earth materials, Simora Core offers a lighter, more durable, and more affordable motor system that can lower electricity costs for both consumers and providers. The technology also opens the door for expanded domestic manufacturing in magnet‑free motor production, strengthening both sustainability and economic opportunity.
Significance of the Activate Fellowship
Activate selected only 50 scientist‑innovators for its 2026 cohort, choosing leaders across the United States who are committed to solving the most pressing global challenges. This fellowship is highly competitive and nationally recognized, providing founders with mentorship, entrepreneurial education, and a community designed to accelerate hard‑tech innovations into real‑world impact. Activate selecting Talebi, reflects the scale and promise of her work. Also highlighting how The Texas A&M University System innovators continue to shape the future of sustainable engineering and technology.
