Luke F. Lester

Dr. Luke F. Lester is the Roanoke Electric Steel Research Professor in the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Virginia Tech. His research focuses on optoelectronics, nanotechnology, and semiconductor lasers, including advancements in quantum dot lasers and photonic oscillators. An IEEE Fellow (2013) for contributions to quantum dot lasers, he also engages in engineering education reform, curriculum design, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Lester holds a Ph.D. (1992) and B.S. (1984) in Electrical Engineering from Cornell University.

Education:

• Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, Cornell University, 1992
• B.S., Electrical Engineering, Cornell University, 1984

Research Interests:

• Optoelectronics and semiconductor lasers
• Quantum dot and photonic technologies
• Material science in photovoltaics and transistors
• Curriculum design for engineering education

Awards:

• IEEE Fellow (2013)

Advising & Grants: Lester has contributed to interdisciplinary programs like the Calhoun Discovery Program and developed hybrid/online curricula for signals and systems courses. His work emphasizes collaborative, project-based learning and institutional partnerships.

Labs/Teams: Active in Virginia Tech's ECE department, he collaborates on advancements in nanowire lasers, GaSb photovoltaics, and quantum-enabled workforce training initiatives.