An expert in photonics at Michigan State University has been named a Fellow of Optica, an international professional society dedicated to advancing optics and photonics.
Thomas Clark, a professor of electrical and computer engineering, is being recognized for “pioneering contributions to photonic microwave-to-digital concepts, techniques, and systems for coherent-optical and wireless communications.”
Clark is among 116 members from 23 countries elected to Optica’s 2027 class of Fellows. Fellow membership is a selective distinction held by no more than 10% of Optica’s members. Selection is based on outstanding contributions to research, business, education, engineering and service. The new Fellows will be honored at Optica conferences and events throughout 2027.
Nelson Sepúlveda Alancastro, professor and chairperson of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, said Clark’s research is adding an enhanced understanding of photonics technologies at MSU.
"We are very proud that Professor Clark has been elevated to Fellow of Optica. This honor recognizes a career of exceptional contributions to photonics, and it reflects the caliber of research and leadership we are fortunate to have in our ECE department at Michigan State University."
Clark joined MSU in December 2024 and directs the Photonic Systems Research Group. His research focuses on photonic systems for communications, sensing, and signal processing. Additional focus areas include quantum computing, sensing, autonomy, and artificial intelligence. He has more than 100 archival publications and has been awarded 11 patents.
From 2003 to 2024, Clark worked in the Air and Missile Defense Sector at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. He has also worked at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory and in the telecommunications industry.
He is a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). He is active in both the IEEE Photonics Society and the Microwave Theory and Technologies Society, as well as Optica.
His education credentials include a Ph.D. at the University of Maryland, a master’s degree at Lehigh University, and a bachelor’s degree at Loyola College of Maryland.
Written by Patricia Mroczek
MSU College of Engineering Media and Public Relations page