Eric R. Fossum

Eric R. Fossum is the John H. Krehbiel Sr. Professor for Emerging Technologies at the Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth College. He serves as Vice Provost for Entrepreneurship and Technology Transfer and Director of Dartmouth's PhD Innovation Program. As one of the world's leading experts in solid-state image sensors, he invented the CMOS active pixel sensor technology that revolutionized digital imaging in smartphones, medical devices, and automotive systems. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Technology and Innovation (2025) and the Queen Elizabeth Prize (2017).

His research interests focus on:

• Solid-state image sensors (CCDs, CMOS active pixel sensors, Quanta Image Sensors)
• Advanced imaging systems and on-chip processing
• New applications for image sensors in medicine, security, and space

Dr. Fossum's recent publications demonstrate significant advancements in:

• Photon-counting sensors for low-light applications
• High-speed imaging for microscopy and radiography
• Backside-illuminated and sub-diffraction-limit pixel designs
• Quantum random number generation using sensor technology
• Infrared spectral extension of CMOS sensors

His scientific awards include:

• National Medal of Technology and Innovation (2025)
• Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering (2017)
• IEEE Andrew S. Grove Award (2009)
• Induction into National Inventors Hall of Fame (2011)
• Emmy Award for Technology & Engineering (2021)
• Doctor of Science, Honoris Causa from Trinity College (2014)

As an entrepreneurial leader, Dr. Fossum has:

• Co-founded Gigajot Technology with former PhD students
• Previously led Photobit and Siimpel Corporations
• Active participant in technology transfer initiatives at Dartmouth
• Founder and Past President of the International Image Sensor Society