NYCU Awards Honorary Doctorate to Renowned Photonics Scientist Jia-Ming Liu

(中央社訊息服務20260410 18:03:46)National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) has awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree to internationally acclaimed photonics scientist and educator Dr. Jia-Ming Liu, recognizing his outstanding contributions to optical science and higher education, as well as his enduring impact on global academic development.

A distinguished alumnus of National Chiao Tung University (NCTU), Dr. Liu graduated from the Department of Electrophysics in 1975 before pursuing advanced studies in the United States. He earned both his master’s and doctoral degrees in applied physics from Harvard University, where he studied under Nobel laureate Nicolaas Bloembergen.

Dr. Liu later held research and academic positions at the University at Buffalo and GTE Laboratories before joining the University of California, Los Angeles in 1986. He currently serves as Distinguished Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and as Associate Dean of Engineering, maintaining a prominent role in the international academic community.

Over decades of research, Dr. Liu has become a leading figure in laser physics, nonlinear optics, and ultrafast photonics. In 1982, he introduced an innovative technique for measuring focused laser beam spot size—now widely known as “Liu’s Method.” This approach has since become a standard tool across physics, engineering, and biomedical research.

Beyond this breakthrough, his work in laser dynamics, ultrafast pulse technology, and nonlinear optical systems has significantly advanced modern optoelectronic science and technology.

Dr. Liu has authored multiple books and published more than 270 academic papers. His textbook Photonic Devices is widely regarded as a foundational reference in the field and is used by universities around the world.

He is a Life Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and a Fellow of both the American Physical Society and Optica. His honors include a Guggenheim Fellowship and the IEEE Quantum Electronics Award, among other prestigious distinctions.

In addition to his research achievements, Dr. Liu has long been dedicated to advancing Taiwan’s academic landscape. Since 1997, he has frequently returned to Taiwan to deliver lectures, foster U.S.–Taiwan research collaboration, and serve as a visiting professor at multiple institutions.

In recent years, he has further deepened these ties as a Yushan Scholar under Taiwan’s Ministry of Education, leading research initiatives and mentoring young scholars, demonstrating a strong commitment to giving back to his alma mater and to society.

Reflecting on his time at NCTU, Dr. Liu expressed pride in the university’s transformation over the past five decades. He emphasized that the true value of science and engineering lies in both exploration and real-world application, and noted that individual achievements are built upon the support of mentors and collaborative teams.

Looking ahead, he reaffirmed his commitment to knowledge transmission and academic development.

Dr. Liu’s distinguished achievements and international influence make him an exemplary role model for students and faculty alike. The conferment of the honorary doctorate not only celebrates his lifelong contributions but also underscores the NYCU’s dedication to academic excellence and global engagement.