Congratulations to Steven P. DenBaars, who was honored with the 2026 IEEE NICK HOLONYAK, JR. MEDAL

The LED lights illuminating homes, offices, and screens around the world have a foundational connection to the work of Professor steve denbaars of UC Santa Barbara

Professor DenBaars is the recipient of the 2026 IEEE Nick Holonyak, Jr. Medal for Semiconductor Optoelectronic Technologies "for seminal contributions to compound semiconductor optoelectronics, including high-efficiency visible light-emitting diodes, lasers, and LED displays." His research into gallium nitride semiconductor materials helped lay the foundation for modern solid-state lighting, high-resolution LED and laser displays, and emerging optical communication systems.

This prestigious IEEE medal, sponsored by the Friends of Nick Holonyak, Jr., recognizes outstanding contributions to semiconductor optoelectronic technologies that mediate between electricity and light to shape how the world sees and communicates.

Congratulations, Professor DenBaars!