Patrick Fay

Patrick Fay is a Professor of Electrical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame and holds the Stinson Professorship of Nanotechnology. His primary research focuses on microwave, millimeter-wave, and power electronic devices, with applications in photovoltaics, energy conversion, and high-speed optoelectronics. He works in the Fitzpatrick Hall of Engineering and is affiliated with the High Speed Circuits & Devices Lab and the Notre Dame Nanofabrication Facility.

• Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (1996)
• M.S., Electrical Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• B.S., Electrical Engineering, University of Notre Dame (1991)

His research explores novel III-V semiconductor solar cells, GaN-based power transistors, and ultra-low-power heterostructure devices. He applies advanced fabrication techniques to improve performance in terrestrial/space photovoltaics and develops high-efficiency microwave components for wireless communications. Current projects include unconventional solar cell architectures for airborne applications.

Prof. Fay has published over 400 journal/conference articles and 11 book chapters, with seven patents in semiconductor technology. He has received multiple teaching awards, including the College of Engineering’s Outstanding Teaching Award (2015) and dual Departmental awards (1998, 2018). His work spans energy-efficient electronics, smart grid systems, and transformative solar energy solutions.

• IEEE Fellow
• IEEE Electron Devices Society Distinguished Lecturer
• Outstanding Teaching Award (1998, 2015, 2018)