David J. Norris

Prof. David J. Norris is a Full Professor at ETH Zurich's Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering and Director of the Optical Materials Engineering Laboratory. He holds a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Chicago (1990) and a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from MIT (1995). His research focuses on engineering materials to achieve novel optical properties, particularly semiconductor nanocrystals (quantum dots) and plasmonic films. Notable awards include the Max Rössler Prize (2015) and ERC Advanced Grant (2014-2019).

Research interests span nanoscale optical phenomena, including exciton dynamics in colloidal systems and plasmonic nanofocusing. He has pioneered studies on magic-sized semiconductor nanocrystals and developed methods for high-throughput characterization of atomically thin semiconductors. His work bridges nanotechnology and photonics, addressing applications in lasers, sensors, and energy systems.

Awards also include the Credit Suisse Award for Best Teaching (2015) and fellowships from the American Physical Society and AAAS. He serves on editorial boards for ACS Photonics and Nano Letters, reflecting his leadership in nanophotonics and materials science.

Grants include an ERC Advanced Grant supporting his exploration of optical materials. His lab’s innovations include template-stripping techniques for plasmonic devices and plasmon-enhanced catalysis. Past roles include Director of Graduate Studies at the University of Minnesota and an Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship at TU Munich (2006-2007).