M. Yasin Akhtar Raja

M. Yasin Akhtar Raja is a Professor of Physics and Optical Science at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte), where he has served since 2004. He also holds an adjunct professorship in Electrical and Computer Engineering since 2011. As an undergraduate advisor, he plays a key role in student mentorship.

• Ph.D. in Optical Physics from the University of New Mexico (1988)
• M. Phil in Laser Physics from Quaid-i-Azam University (Pakistan)
• B.Sc. in Physics and Math from Punjab University (Lahore, Pakistan)

His research focuses on optoelectronics, photonics, and optical communication networks, with expertise in VCSELs, optical amplifiers, and solar energy harvesting. He has authored over 170 publications and secured multiple patents, including foundational work on surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). Raja has supervised 42 graduate students and chairs the undergraduate committee in his department. He co-founded the HONET-ICT international conference series and advises research initiatives in Pakistan.

Notable achievements include his invention of the surface-emitting RPG laser (VCSEL), a Merit Scholarship from Pakistan, and contributions to fiber optic networks and smart grid technologies. His work spans theoretical and applied research, with applications in telecommunications, energy, and materials science.