Lester Appointed to Microelectronics Chaired Professorship

Luke Lester, professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and associate director, Center for High Technology Materials, has been appointed to the UNM Microelectronics Chair Professorship. Lester has a track record of innovations in semiconductors and photonics, including fabricating the world’s fastest transistor, a record that stood for more than a decade as noted in the “Guinness Book of World Records.”

Photo: Luke Lester

“Luke’s work in microelectronics and photonics has resulted in breakthroughs in technology,” UNM School of Engineering Dean Joseph L. Cecchi said, “It is particularly noteworthy that Luke has involved his UNM students every step of the way, from formulating the research plan to launching startup companies. Luke’s appointment to this position recognizes the key role he has played in establishing UNM’s international reputation in microelectronics and photonics.”

Lester intends to use the additional funds that come with the chair to work on areas that have long interested him, including work on alternative energy with quantum dots in solar cells, and high speed photonics using injection-locked semiconductor lasers.

He is also interested in researching 100 gigabit per second Ethernet applications, and short pulse semiconductor lasers that will use optics to transfer data from chip to chip in silicon integrated circuits.

“I’m excited to receive this appointment,” Lester said. “This honor will free me to explore new areas that previously would have been considered too risky to guarantee useful results.” Lester’s appointment became effect in August 2008.

Media Contact: Karen Wentworth, (505) 277-5627; e-mail: kwent2@unm.edu