Alfred Yi Cho

Alfred Yi Cho

Molecular Beam Epitaxy Inventor

Born: July 10, 1937 in Beijing, China

Alfred Cho is known as the father of "molecular beam epitaxy," a technique that he invented. His work significantly affected the semiconductor industry and led to many new devices including high-speed transistors, microwave devices, and remote sensing detectors. His technology is also used in CD/DVD players, mobile phones, and global positioning systems. He holds 85 U.S. patents.