Watson Lecture - Historic Innovations by Caltech People That Transformed Our Everyday Lives

Drawing on more than 70 years of research and perspective, microelectronics pioneer Carver Mead (BS '56, PhD '60), the Gordon and Betty Moore Professor of Engineering and Applied Science, Emeritus, will share a history of Caltech breakthroughs and innovations that have revolutionized modern society. In this talk, Mead will illuminate the contributions of Caltech scientists and engineers who have worked to identify and eliminate Los Angeles smog; to engineer the semiconductors that ushered in Silicon Valley and the age of digital information; to create the lasers that made the World Wide Web possible; to bring GPS to the masses; and to make cars electronic. His discussion will span both his own work and that of colleagues, students, and fellow alumni who pursued excellence, defied convention, and made all our lives better.

Evening Schedule

6 p.m. — Activities and music. Food, drinks, and books available for purchase

7 p.m. — Doors open

7:30 p.m. — Talk

8:30 p.m. — Post-talk concessions and conversation

REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND IN PERSON

This lecture will also be livestreamed at Caltech.edu/Watson.

A recording will be made available on our Youtube channel.

About the Series

For more than 100 years, the Watson Lectures have brought the wonder of Caltech research and discovery to the public.

Free and open to the public, the Watson Lecture Series offers a unique and accessible opportunity to learn more about cutting-edge science directly from Caltech's premier researchers. Come early to mingle with your neighbors over food, drink and music, as well as interactive displays related to the evening's topic.

Many past Watson Lectures are available on YouTube.

For more information, please contact The Caltech Ticket Office by email at [email protected].