Doctor of Philosophy, Physics, University of Rhode Island; Master of Science, Physics, University of Rhode Island; Bachelor of Science, Physics, University of Peradeniya

Nadarajah Narendran, PhD, is a professor of architecture and physics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Dr. Narendran also serves as the director of research at Rensselaer’s Lighting Research Center. He is recognized for his pioneering research in the field of solid-state lighting, including LED performance improvement through novel packaging, development of accelerated life-testing methods, and the use of LEDs in high-value lighting applications. He is the inventor of Scattered Photon Extraction (SPE™), a method to improve the light output and efficacy of white LEDs. The SPE method combines optimally shaped optics and placement of down-conversion materials such as phosphor and quantum dots away from the die, generating up to 60 percent more photons and luminous efficacy than typical white LEDs available at the time with the phosphor layer on top of the chip. The SPE method led to several worldwide patents and licensing. Also notable, Dr. Narendran’s work on the reliability testing of LED lighting systems led to the development of internationally accepted standards for testing and defining the useful life of LED lighting systems. He is the lead author of the International Energy Agency’s 2021 report, “Literature Summary of Lifetime Testing of Light Emitting Diodes and LED Products.” Dr. Narendran’s current research focuses on 3D printing for lighting, specifically investigations of the functional properties of materials to produce components for lighting fixtures, including mechanical, thermal, optical, and electronic subcomponents. Additionally, Dr. Narendran organizes the 3D Printing for Lighting Consortium at the LRC, which brings together key stakeholders from the 3D printing and lighting industries to work collaboratively to revolutionize lighting manufacturing. Dr. Narendran is a Fellow of the Illuminating Engineering Society and a Fellow of SPIE (The International Society for Optics and Photonics). He served on the committee assessing solid-state lighting for the National Research Council of the National Academies. Dr. Narendran has authored more than 130 articles in archival journals and proceedings and holds over 50 worldwide patents. He is the recipient of Rensselaer’s William H. Wiley Distinguished Faculty Award in 2012, which honors those who have won the respect of the faculty through excellence in teaching, productive research, and interest in the totality of the educational process.