The University of Central Florida (UCF) has announced the awarding of the inaugural Medal of Societal Impact to Professor Shin-Tson Wu, a leading figure in the field of optics and photonics, recognized globally for his significant contributions to display technologies. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place during the Founders’ Day celebrations on April 3, 2024, where Professor Wu will be honored for his pioneering research that has fundamentally transformed the landscape of liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and related technologies.
Professor Wu, holding the titles of Trustees Chair Professor and Pegasus Professor at UCF’s College of Optics and Photonics, has been instrumental in advancing LCD technology, making it more energy-efficient, vibrant, and adaptable. His work has directly impacted a wide range of modern devices, from smartphones and tablets to augmented reality (AR) glasses, enhancing the way people across the globe access information, communicate, and interact with digital content.
In recognition of his groundbreaking contributions, UCF President Alexander Cartwright will present Professor Wu with the Medal of Societal Impact along with a $50,000 grant during a special ceremony at the Student Union’s Pegasus Ballroom. The event, part of the Founders’ Day Faculty Honors Celebration, is open to the campus community and highlights UCF’s commitment to acknowledging faculty members whose research has made a significant societal impact.
Beyond his technological innovations, Professor Wu is celebrated for his dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers. With 43 doctoral students graduated under his guidance since his arrival at UCF in 2001, many of whom now work with leading companies such as Apple and Meta, Professor Wu’s influence extends well into the industry and academia, shaping the future of optical and display technologies.
Professor Wu’s most notable invention, the mixed-mode twisted nematic liquid crystal cell, revolutionized the field of display technology, paving the way for high-brightness, high-resolution, and high-contrast LCDs. This innovation not only set new standards for display technology but also contributed to energy conservation and environmental protection by significantly reducing electricity consumption compared to traditional displays.
The Medal of Societal Impact is not the only accolade in Professor Wu’s distinguished career. He is the recipient of multiple prestigious awards and has been recognized by international societies for his contributions to the field of optics and photonics. His commitment to research excellence and innovation is further evidenced by his 96 U.S. patents, with about two-thirds obtained during his tenure at UCF.
As Professor Wu plans to invest the grant accompanying the Medal of Societal Impact into further research and student support, the legacy of his work is set to continue influencing the development of cutting-edge technologies and nurturing talent within the optics and photonics community. UCF’s acknowledgment of Professor Wu’s achievements underlines the university’s role in fostering research that not only advances scientific knowledge but also delivers tangible benefits to society.
