Celebrating Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month: Inspiring APIDA Optical Scientists and Engineers
Dr. Ernest Shiu-Jen Kuh
Ernest S. Kuh
Berkeley Engineering
Dr. Ernest Shiu-Jen Kuh, born in Beijing, China, in 1928, had a transformative journey in electrical engineering. Moving to the United States in 1947 to pursue education, Kuh earned a master's degree from MIT and completed his PhD at Stanford in 1952. His career at Berkeley College of Engineering, where he became Dean in 1973, was marked by his innovative approach to interdisciplinary studies and his efforts in establishing the Bechtel Engineering Center. Kuh’s legacy includes his significant contributions to network theory and his dedication to fostering intellectual growth and collaboration.
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Dr. Uma Chowdhry
Uma Chowdhry
Science History Institute Museum & Library
Dr. Uma Chowdhry, an influential materials scientist, embarked on her academic journey in the United States, shifting her focus from nuclear physics to chemistry. After earning her master’s degree from Caltech and a PhD from MIT, she joined Dupont in 1977, where her research spanned several significant projects, including the study of Tetrahydrofuran. Rising through the ranks, Chowdhry became Dupont’s Chief Science and Technology Officer in 2006, retiring in 2010. Her election to the National Academy of Engineering and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences underscores her impactful career in industrial research and innovation.
Dr. Ping King Tien
Ping King "P.K." Tien
Engineering and Technology History Wiki
Dr. Ping King Tien, a pioneering electrical engineer born in Chekiang, China, in 1919, made groundbreaking contributions to integrated optics and microwave amplifiers. After earning his degrees from Stanford University, Tien joined Bell Telephone Laboratories, where he led significant advancements in various fields of applied physics and electrical engineering. Known for his work on the prism-film coupler, Tien's research laid the foundation for the field of integrated optics. His election to the National Academy of Engineering and the National Academy of Sciences reflects his enduring impact on technology and science.
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Dr. Kalpana Chawla
Kalpana Chawla
National Air and Space Museum
Dr. Kalpana Chawla, an aerospace engineer and astronaut, was a trailblazer in space exploration. Born in Karnal, India, she earned her degrees in aeronautical engineering and aerospace engineering before joining NASA in 1988. Chawla flew on two space shuttle missions, conducting vital scientific experiments. Tragically, she and her six crewmates perished during the re-entry of Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003. Chawla’s legacy continues to inspire aspiring astronauts and engineers, highlighting her contributions to aerodynamics and space research.
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Dr. Mimi Aung
MiMi Aung
Dr. Mimi Aung, a Burmese-American engineer, has made significant strides in space exploration. After completing her engineering degrees at the University of Illinois, Aung joined NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where she led the Mars Helicopter Ingenuity project. This historic achievement marked the first powered flight on another planet. Currently, as the director of Technical Program Management for Amazon’s Project Kuiper, Aung continues to innovate in the field of satellite communications, expanding broadband internet access. Her recognition as one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2021 reflects her remarkable contributions.
Dr. Jonathan "Jonny" Kim
Jonny Kim
NASA
Dr. Jonathan "Jonny" Kim, a multifaceted professional, excels as an American U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander, former Seal, Navy Flight surgeon, Naval Aviator, Physician, and NASA Astronaut. Born to South Korean immigrants, Kim’s journey began with his service in the U.S. Navy, where he completed over 100 combat missions. He then pursued a medical degree from Harvard Medical School, subsequently joining NASA’s Astronaut Group 22. As an astronaut, Kim continues to contribute to space exploration, with a focus on the upcoming Moon landing mission. His diverse achievements exemplify resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in multiple fields.
Find out more about each of these inspiring people by following the Wyant College of Optical Sciences Instagram page, where a brief bio on each person was posted throughout the month of May in celebration of APIDA Heritage Month.