CMOS Sensor Pioneer Wins Prestigious Engineering Nobel Prize
Eric R. Fossum, PhD, has been honored with the 2026 Charles Stark Draper Prize for Engineering, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Engineering.” This recognition is a testament to his groundbreaking work in developing the CMOS image sensor, which has revolutionized photography as we know it.
Cameras Transformed by Innovation
Fossum’s pivotal invention, specifically the advancement of active-pixel technology, has become a standard in consumer camera sensors. This innovation has made a significant impact on both personal and professional photography, with millions of users relying on it daily.
Background and Development
Fossum joined NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 1990, where he was tasked with creating a camera sensor that was more energy-efficient and resistant to radiation. His goal was to reduce the size of the cameras while improving functionality.
- Before Fossum’s contributions, CMOS sensors existed but lacked their modern capabilities.
- He combined active-pixel sensor technology with intra-pixel charge transfer, allowing the design to fit on an integrated chip.
This design contrasts with CCD sensors, which require extensive external circuitry. The new pixel architecture allowed each chip to contain arrays of light-sensitive pixels, complete with individual amplifiers. This setup supports functions like noise reduction, analog-to-digital conversion, and digital image processing.
A Lasting Impact
The technology was patented in 1995 and is now utilized in over 6 billion cameras each year across various devices, including smartphones and professional cameras.
A Life Dedicated to Engineering
Currently, Fossum serves as the John H. Krehbiel Senior Professor for Emerging Technologies at the Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. He continues to conduct important research on image sensors.
In addition to the Draper Prize, Fossum has been inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame and the National Academy of Engineering. His accolades include:
- Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering
- National Medal for Technology and Innovation
- Technical Emmy Award
- Edwin Land Medal
Fossum’s invention has had a profound influence on digital camera technology, making it one of the most significant advancements in the field. Without his pioneering work, the photography landscape would undoubtedly be different today.
