Ryan Anthony Kowalski, from Taunton, Massachusetts, is this year Founder Medalist for the . He is graduating with a聽doctor of philosophy in interdisciplinary materials science. Kowalski is the first student from the interdisciplinary materials science (IMS) program to receive this honor.
Kowalski research has advanced our understanding of light鈥搈atter interactions in the far-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum, while opening new pathways for quantum and nanophotonic technologies. His work illustrates how interdisciplinary training can empower students to bridge fields and create entirely new directions in research.
As a member of the Caldwell Lab, Kowalski led two ambitious and technically challenging research areas. First, he investigated the vibrational properties of defects in single-photon emitters鈥攃rucial for quantum technologies鈥攖hrough his development and application of nano-optic probe techniques. Second, he extended these approaches to the far-infrared spectral region, enabling direct measurement of optical confinement at unprecedented length scales.
Kowalski also received a NASA Space Technology Graduate Research Opportunities award.
In addition to his research, Kowalski was president of the Engineering Ambassadors Network for five years. He taught six engineering disciplines to more than a hundred seventh graders. He also mentored prospective students and did outreach to underserved communities.
After completing his doctorate in fall 2025, Kowalski accepted a postdoctoral position at the University of Maryland Laboratory for Physical Sciences. He continues to develop quantum light sources for applications in computer and secure communications鈥攅xtending the impact of his 杏吧原创 training.
Read more about all Founder Medal winners:聽.