At JPL's Microdevices Laboratory we conduct valuable research and make new discoveries by developing technologies and instruments for exploring the solar system, deep space and our own planet. I feel fortunate to have been selected as the MDL Deputy Director since the position was created in 2007 by Paul Dimotakis, former JPL Chief Scientist, and Jonas Zmuidzinas, former MDL Director. Working under Jonas’ guidance and leadership and later under Chris Webster, the second MDL Director, has been a significant learning process and privilege for me. Engaging with the outstanding and talented technical team at MDL has also been extremely rewarding and I draw inspiration from rich interactions with my peers.
MDL is truly a unique environment that attracts world-class personnel. From the beginning, our vision for MDL was to perform innovative and unique research and development in micro- and nano-technology, and to infuse these technologies into projects of interest for JPL and NASA in the areas of astrophysics, planetary and Earth science, Department of Defense space, terrestrial missions, and commercial industry. As evident from our 20-year track record, the MDL-developed technologies have had a significant impact on instruments for exploration of new science.
In January 2017, Dr. Robert Green, a JPL senior research scientist and JPL Fellow, was appointed as the third Director of MDL. I was asked to continue in my key role as the MDL Deputy Director, bridging this exciting transition and continuing forward. We are determined to continue to do great research and develop breakthrough technologies and devices. We have every expectation that MDL will continue to play a critical role in NASA/JPL missions.
Siamak Forouhar, Deputy Director
JPL Microdevices Laboratory
Siamak.Forouhar@jpl.nasa.gov