Kevin Houser

Kevin Houser is a Professor in the Department of Civil and Construction Engineering at Oregon State University, with a joint appointment as Chief Engineer at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). He co-founded Lyralux, Inc., and previously served as Editor-in-Chief of LEUKOS, the journal of the Illuminating Engineering Society. His expertise spans lighting science, human factors, and photobiology, with a focus on optimizing light spectra for visual and biological outcomes.

Education:

• Ph.D., Architectural Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, 1997
• B.A.E., Architectural Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, 1993

Research Interests: His work integrates vision science and engineering to design light sources that enhance color perception, whiteness, and energy efficiency. Key areas include spectral tuning for circadian health, lighting education, and collaboration with industry/government on applied lighting solutions. Recent projects address light’s impact on cognition, sleep, and myopia prevention.

Publications & Recognition: Professor Houser has authored over 150 papers and received accolades such as the Edison Lifetime Achievement Award and IES Taylor Award. His research has driven advancements in color rendition metrics (e.g., IES TM-30-15) and lighting standards.

Advocacy & Leadership: He developed Oregon State’s Architectural Engineering program and led Project CANDLE, an industry-university initiative to reform lighting education. His teaching includes graduate courses on color science and lighting design, emphasizing evidence-based practices.

Labs & Collaborations: Affiliated with Oregon State’s Lighting Lab and PNNL, he collaborates with over 20 companies and agencies like the US DOE. His work bridges academia, industry, and policy to advance sustainable, human-centric lighting solutions.