Hiroshi Amano

Hiroshi Amano was born on September 11, 1960, in Hamamatsu, Japan. He would grow up to become a notable physicist, working in the field of semiconductor technology. His most significant achievement came from his research in developing blue LEDs, which have become crucial in the development of modern lighting solutions.

In 1989, Hiroshi Amano, along with his colleagues Isamu Akasaki and Shuji Nakamura, successfully developed the first high-brightness blue light-emitting diode (LED) based on gallium nitride. This innovation was revolutionary for the field, enabling the creation of white LED light used in various applications today, from general lighting to displays and televisions.

In April 2001, Hiroshi Amano was appointed as a professor at Nagoya University in Japan. His role as a professor allowed him to further his research and mentor a new generation of scientists in the field of engineering and semiconductor research. His work at Nagoya University has been influential in driving advancements in the development of energy-efficient lighting solutions.

In November 2009, under the guidance of Hiroshi Amano, Nagoya University established its first field of an exposure system for creating blue LEDs. Amano's continuous efforts were central to cultivating the infrastructure necessary for producing the next generation of efficient LEDs.

Hiroshi Amano, along with Isamu Akasaki and Shuji Nakamura, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics on October 7, 2014, for the invention of efficient blue light-emitting diodes which have enabled bright and energy-saving white light sources. Their work was a breakthrough in science and technology, spurring global advancements in energy-saving lighting solutions and improving quality of life.

On November 18, 2014, Hiroshi Amano was awarded the Education Medal from the Japan Geoscience Union for his outstanding contributions to education in physics and engineering. Amano's influence extended beyond research as he inspired countless students and academics by sharing his knowledge and encouraging innovation in LED and semiconductor research.

On February 9, 2015, Hiroshi Amano was honored with the IEEE Edison Medal, an award recognizing contributions to the development of electrical and electronic engineering. This accolade was awarded to him for his pioneering work in developing blue LEDs. The IEEE Edison Medal is one of the oldest and most prestigious awards in the field, further cementing Amano's legacy in scientific and engineering communities.

In June 2015, Hiroshi Amano was awarded the William Exner Medal by the Kyoto University for his significant contributions to the field of semiconductor technology. The award highlighted his groundbreaking work in blue LED development and its impact on modern-day lighting technology. The William Exner Medal is given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in scientific research and development.

On December 21, 2018, under the directorship of Hiroshi Amano, Nagoya University inaugurated its new LED Research Center. This state-of-the-art facility focuses on the continued research and development of LED technologies, including applications in energy-saving lighting. The research center is a testament to Amano's ongoing commitment to advancing LED technology and his leadership in the field.

Hiroshi Amano received the Gold Pin from the International Commission on Illumination in September 2019. This honor was awarded to him in recognition of his valuable contributions to the field of illumination, particularly through his groundbreaking work on blue LEDs. The Gold Pin is a special distinction awarded to individuals who have notably furthered the field of lighting technology through innovation.