Thomas K Gaylord

Thomas K Gaylord serves as Regents Professor and Julius Brown Chair in Georgia Tech's School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, where he has pioneered optics education and research since joining in 1972. He founded the institution's optics programs, developing key courses including Optical Engineering, Integrated Optics, and Optoelectronics: Materials, Processes, and Devices, alongside establishing critical research laboratory infrastructure.

His academic journey began with a B.S. in physics and M.S. in electrical engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla, followed by a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from Rice University. His research portfolio spans advanced photonics domains with significant contributions to diffractive optics, photonic crystals, and nanostructure optoelectronics.

Dr. Gaylord's scholarly impact is reflected in over 300 technical publications and 25 patents across optics, optoelectronics, and semiconductor devices. His work demonstrates consistent innovation in optical interconnects, fiber optic devices, and optical sensors instrumentation.

His exceptional contributions have earned prestigious recognitions including triple Fellowships (IEEE, OSA, AAAS) and major awards such as the OSA Esther Hoffman Beller Medal, IEEE Graduate Teaching Award, and Georgia Tech's Class of 1934 Distinguished Professor Award.

As founder of Georgia Tech's Optics Laboratory, he has shaped generations of engineers through curriculum development and research leadership. His 50+ year career exemplifies sustained excellence in both scholarly research and educational innovation within photonics engineering.