Purdue University Prof. Joseph Lukens Honored with Presidential Early Career Award

Joseph Lukens, Associate Professor in Purdue University's Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, has been awarded the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), the highest honor conferred by the U.S. government on early-career scientists and engineers.
President Joe Biden announced the recipients of the 2024 PECASE awards recognizing nearly 400 scientists and engineers across the nation. Established in 1996 by President Bill Clinton, the PECASE honors researchers who demonstrate exceptional potential for leadership and innovation in their fields early in their careers.
Lukens was recognized for his groundbreaking work in advancing the development of practical and efficient quantum communication networks, a foundational step toward realizing the quantum internet. His work addresses two key challenges: improving the quality of quantum signals in mixed networks and creating scalable, flexible quantum systems using advanced technologies like CMOS-based silicon chips. This research exemplifies the PECASE mission of advancing scientific and technological innovation while bridging research with tangible societal impacts.
“I have been surprised how the amount of attention the PECASE brings has already changed my perspective on it,” Lukens notes. “Previously I viewed it primarily as a recognition, but I am finding it is just as much of a challenge—a challenge to leave a future impact that far exceeds what has gotten me to this point. I am thankful for the opportunity to take this new challenge on.”
President Biden emphasized the critical role of science and technology in addressing societal challenges, noting the administration's commitment to expanding federally funded research through initiatives like the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. The PECASE awardees reflect this vision, representing agencies across 14 federal departments and organizations, including NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Energy.
"In just a short time since getting his PhD, Joe Lukens has established himself as one of the leading young lights in quantum science and technology, and receiving the PECASE is a fitting recognition of his achievements,” said Milind Kulkarni, Michael and Katherine Birck Head and Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering. “Joe exemplifies the innovative spirit and dedication to excellence that define Purdue ECE. His groundbreaking work in quantum communication networks has the potential to transform how we share information in the future. This recognition by the White House is a testament to his vision and leadership in advancing the frontiers of science and engineering, and we could not be more thrilled to watch Joe continue to push quantum science forward here at Purdue."
As one of this year’s honorees, Lukens joins an elite group of researchers driving progress in science and engineering, advancing not only academic understanding but also practical solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.
Lukens is also an alumnus of Purdue ECE, earning his PhD in 2015 with the late Andrew Weiner as his advisor. Three additional alumni - AJ Metcalf, Gwendolyn Voskuilen, and Nathaniel Kinsey - were also awarded the PECASE.
Metcalf earned his master’s degree and PhD from Purdue ECE in 2012 and 2015, respectively. His advisor was the late Andrew Weiner. Metcalf is currently the Space Enterprise Engagement Lead for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).
Gwendolyn Voskuilen earned her PhD from Purdue ECE in 2012. Her advisor was Prof. T. N. Vijaykumar. Voskuilen is currently with the Center for Computing Research at Sandia National Labs.
Kinsey earned his PhD from Purdue ECE in 2016. His advisors were professors Alexandra Boltasseva, Vlad Shalaev, and the late Andrew Weiner. Kinsey is currently the Engineering Foundation Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Source: Purdue researchers earn Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers