Mitchell Thornton

Mitchell Thornton is the Cecil H. Green Chair of Engineering and Professor at Southern Methodist University (SMU), with dual appointments in the Lyle School of Engineering’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Computer Science (by Courtesy). He serves as Executive Director of the Darwin Deason Institute for Cyber Security and Program Director for SMU’s interdisciplinary M.S. in Data Engineering.

Education

• Ph.D. in Computer Engineering, SMU (1995)
• MS in Computer Science, SMU (1993)
• MS in Electrical Engineering, University of Texas at Arlington (1990)
• BS in Electrical Engineering, Oklahoma State University (1985)

Thornton’s research spans cybersecurity, quantum informatics, silicon photonics, and data processing algorithms. His recent publications focus on quantum circuit optimization, CMOS transceiver design, and silicon photonic components, reflecting his expertise in both classical and quantum computing systems.

His work demonstrates interdisciplinary trends merging quantum computing with semiconductor design, cybersecurity applications in unmanned aerial systems, and innovations in high-speed communication hardware. Keywords include Quantum Algorithms, CMOS Technology, and Photonic Circuits.

Scientific Awards

• Inducted into IEEE TCMVL Multiple-Valued Logic Researcher Hall of Fame (2022)
• Rotunda Outstanding Professor Award (2022)
• Gerald J. Ford Senior Research Fellow (2005)
• Texas Instruments Outstanding Researcher (1996-1998)
• IEEE-USA Citation of Honor (2009)

Thornton has secured over $10M in sponsored research funding from federal agencies and industry partners. He holds P.E. licenses in Texas, Mississippi, and Arkansas, along with a General Radiotelephone Operator License from the FCC. His lab, the Darwin Deason Institute for Cyber Security, drives cutting-edge research in secure systems and quantum technologies.