Meet a Scientist: Dr. Jie Li

Dr. Li joined SpecTran Specialty Optics (a predecessor to OFS) in 1996 as a fiber preform engineer and has worked in fiber design, preform production, and process improvement; and as a scientist in new fiber product development, fiber strength, and carbon coating characterization. In 2000, he became Fiber and Cable Engineering Manager. Currently, as Senior Manager of Fiber and Cable Engineering and Operations at OFS Specialty Photonics Division in Avon, Dr. Li leads a team responsible for fiber and cable manufacturing, engineering, and product development.

In the specialty photonics business, customized products are often coupled with small volume and short turnaround time. "This combination requires a robust design and manufacturing process – and a clear understanding of each customer’s need," says Dr. Li. "Perhaps our biggest task is to continuously improve our system of processes to meet these challenges."

Dr. Li received a BS in Optical Materials from Changchun Institute of Optics and Mechanics in China, a Master’s degree in Materials Science from Case Western Reserve University, and a Doctoral degree in Ceramic Science and Engineering from Rutgers University. He received the Norbert J. Kreidl Award for Outstanding Scholarship, Glass and Optical Materials Division, from the American Ceramic Society in 1995. He also received the Chinese Academy of Science Award in 1988 and the Chinese National First Award of Science and Technology in 1986. He is the co-author of two patents and has published 12 papers in technical journals.

Dr. Li receives his greatest professional satisfaction from the many ways in which optical fiber has vastly improved our lives. "For example, our customers use optical fiber to transmit light to communicate, to deliver medical laser power to treat patients, and to send data to control machinery on the factory floor. The knowledge that we have contributed to such a great technology gives me a strong sense of satisfaction," he says.