Christopher Lupo
Founding Director, Noyce School of Applied Computing, Cal Polytechnic State University
Ph.D. Computer Engineering, ‘08
Professor Christopher Lupo is currently the founding Director of the Noyce School of Applied Computing at Cal Poly, a cross-disciplinary school comprised of three founding departments: Computer Engineering, Computer Science and Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering. The school has approximately 100 faculty, 8 staff members, and 2100 students. The director's role is to invest in faculty-led student research opportunities, innovative applied computing curriculum, and strategic partnerships both within Cal Poly and beyond. Prior to this role, he was Professor and Chair of the Computer Science and Software Engineering Department at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where he has been on the faculty since 2008. His teaching and research interests include Parallel and High-Performance Computing, GPU Computing, Computer Architecture, code generation, and Computer Science education.
What research or technology are you most excited about right now, and why?
I think quantum modeling and computation paired with generative AI are going to produce some revolutionary tools that will enable new technologies and services that society can benefit from. The socio-political implications of these technologies are also going to be very interesting!
How did your time at UC Davis impact you and/or prepare you for your career?
I had the good fortune to do a lot of teaching at UC Davis. This ignited my passion for working with undergraduate students, developing innovative curriculum, and pursuing an academic career.
Did you have a favorite course or instructor at UC Davis?
I learned so much from my advisor Kent Wilken, and so many other faculty and peers that acted as mentors.
What advice would you give to young people who are currently seeking a degree in electrical and computer engineering?
Don't be afraid to say yes to opportunities that push you beyond your comfort zone, as these experiences can be immensely rewarding both personally and professionally.
Any other information that you would like to provide about your time in ECE at UC Davis?
I loved my experience at Davis! I developed many strong relationships in that community that I still value very much today.