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Alferness is world-renowned for his work on integrated optics and optical switching technology and networks. His research has been central to the development and deployment of fiber optic communications networks.
Alferness began work at Bell Labs in 1976, after obtaining a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Michigan. As Chief Scientist, a position he has held since 2007, Alferness oversaw long-term strategy, government and university partnerships, and technical excellence programs. Earlier, as Senior Vice President of Research, he had overall responsibility for the company's global research laboratories. Alferness also spent several years as Chief Technical Officer for Bell Labs' parent company, Lucent Technologies, transferring the optical technology he worked on to the business units.
Read our interview with Rod regarding his thoughts on the College of Engineering and looking forward-
What compelled you to leave industry and come to UC Santa Barbara?
After many years at Bell Labs and Lucent Technologies driving the innovation, adoption, implementation and deployment of optical networking technology, I felt I had accomplished what I had set out to do in industry and decided my next career step was to take my skills into a top tier university research environment. UC Santa Barbara College of Engineering has had a steady growth curve in technical achievement, stature and prominence over the past 15 to 20 years and is recognized as a place where faculty teamwork and comradary are the natural environment. Strategic, long term as well as translational research creates a place where start-up companies and top notch fundamental research thrives. This is an environment and community of which I wanted to be a part.
What are your visions/aspirations for UCSB College of Engineering for the future?
UCSB College of Engineering has been recognized as one of the top research institutions in the nation, I would like to continue this steady climb of prominence. Equally important is to enhance and strengthen our undergraduate program. In addition, I want to continue to create an environment where employers can expect the highest quality employees at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
What would you like industry to know?
For the U.S. to continue to be a technology world leader we need to continue to drive innovation. The relationship between industry and universities is a fundamental element of this opportunity and challenge.
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