Saif Islam

Background

About Saif Islam

As Professor and Chair of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at the University of California, Davis, with over 21 years of experience at the institution, my contributions to semiconductor nanotechnology research have been transformative. By integrating low-dimensional materials with traditional IC systems, efforts have spanned ultra-fast semiconductor optoelectronics, quantum sensing, and disease prevention, all supported by mass-manufacturable nanofabrication approaches. Leadership roles, including Director of CITRIS and the Northern California Nanotechnology Center, and Chair of the ECE department, have facilitated groundbreaking advancements in sustainable infrastructure and connected communities. With over 42 patents and more than 300 publications, the focus remains on translating research into meaningful societal impact. Collaborative efforts have led to the founding of two startups, combining academic insights with entrepreneurial initiatives. Dedicated to fostering innovation, the mission is to advance cutting-edge solutions that address pressing global challenges while mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers.