Father of LiFi, Harald Haas, Honoured as Ambassador by Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
Image Credit to FAU Botschafter
Renowned researcher receives prestigious recognition from historic German institution near his birthplace
Professor Harald Haas, the acclaimed Father of LiFi technology and Professor of Engineering at the University of Cambridge, was honoured this week at the Awards Ceremony of Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) in Erlangen, Germany. The distinguished researcher was bestowed the title of "Ambassador" for FAU, a recognition that holds particular significance given the university's location just 35 km (22 miles) from his birthplace.
A Homecoming of Excellence
The honour represents a meaningful connection between Haas and the region's leading institution for science and innovation. FAU boasts an outstanding international reputation and a distinguished history spanning more than 280 years, making it one of Germany's premier research universities.
Professor Haas was nominated for this distinction by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Robert Schober, with Prof. Dr.-Ing. Stamminger delivering a laudation at the ceremony. The evening celebrated excellence, innovation, and community, bringing together brilliant minds and deserving award recipients in recognition of their contributions to science and society.
The Visionary Behind LiFi Technology
Harald Haas is widely recognised as one of the driving forces behind LiFi (Light Fidelity) technology, an innovation positioned to transform wireless communications. While LiFi operates wirelessly like WiFi, it transmits data via light waves rather than radio waves.
A proud Franconian, Haas studied at Ohm University of Applied Sciences in Nuremberg before beginning his professional career at Siemens, FAU's long-standing partner. His enduring academic passion focuses on the intersection of optics and informatics, a multidisciplinary approach that has driven his ground-breaking research throughout his career.
After completing his PhD at the University of Edinburgh, Haas embarked on a distinguished research career with academic appointments in Bremen, Edinburgh, and currently Cambridge. He also serves as Visiting Professor at the School of Engineering at the University of Strathclyde.
A Record of Exceptional Achievement
The scope of Professor Haas's contributions to telecommunications research is remarkable. His academic portfolio includes:
Over 650 publications in conferences and scientific journals
More than 50,000 citations, with an h-index of 108
45 patents reflecting the groundbreaking and commercially viable nature of his research
These metrics underscore the profound impact of his work on the field of wireless communications and optical networking.
Strengthening International Bonds
As a recipient of the prestigious Humboldt Research Award, Harald Haas has worked with FAU's Chair of Digital Communications, where he developed an appreciation for the university's innovation ecosystem. The Ambassador title recognises not only his scientific achievements but also his potential to promote FAU's reputation globally and strengthen academic ties between Cambridge and Erlangen.
This appointment represents more than ceremonial recognition, it establishes a formal connection through which Professor Haas can help amplify how FAU continues to advance science, innovation, and education both regionally and on the global stage.
A Legacy of Innovation
The honour bestowed upon Harald Haas reflects both his personal achievements and his ongoing commitment to advancing telecommunications technology. As LiFi technology continues to develop and move towards mainstream commercial deployment, the recognition from his home region's premier research institution adds a meaningful dimension to his already distinguished career.
For FAU, appointing Professor Haas as Ambassador strengthens its connection to one of the most innovative minds in modern telecommunications, a researcher whose work exemplifies the university's commitment to excellence and its tradition of producing scientists who shape the future of technology. The appointment ensures that the historic German institution maintains strong ties to cutting-edge research being conducted at the world's leading universities, while celebrating a native son who has achieved global recognition for his pioneering contributions to science and engineering.
Image Credit to FAU
Image credit to Michael Webb, University of Cambridge
