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Electrical & Computer Engineering Research

Two engineers standing in front of MOCVD reactor

Research Areas – Electrical and Computer Engineering

Ranked 6th in the national research category for public universities by the National Science Foundation, UW-Madison continues to be a leader of exploration and discovery. The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is a proud part of that reputation of research excellence, boasting award-winning faculty, advanced facilities and laboratories, and a culture of creativity, innovation and diligence.

Research focus areas

The eight priority research areas identified in our latest ECE Strategic Plan provide critical focus and drive high-impact, collaborative research with reach beyond the boundaries of our university.
ECE Optics and Photonics Lab - Anechoic Chamber
Applied Electromagnetics, Acoustics, and Plasmas
Image generated by machine learning and data processing. Red and orange swirly image, similar to flames, on black background
Artificial Intelligence
Student adjusting round microphone inside sound insulated box
Communications, Networks, Privacy, and Security
Close up photo of pliable microprocessor
Computer Systems and Architecture
ECE Energy Systems - Bearingless Motor inner coil
Energy Systems
ECE Optics and Photonics Lab Photo - setup of optics table
Optics and Photonics
ECE - 3D image of Optimization and Control model. Grey 3D grid holds blue rectangular shape with yellow center line
Optimization and Control
ECE SSEQT Lab Photo of LED Wafer
Solid-state Electronics and Quantum Technologies

Electrical and computer engineering research news

All department news
Akhilesh Jaiswal and Md Abdullah-Al Kaiser
December 1, 2025

Built with today’s tech, new type of memory is key in the future of optical computing

UW Crest with engineering background
November 24, 2025

Focus on new faculty: Zheng Liu is using AI to give wireless chips a boost

Students present at the ECE Undergraduate Research Symposium
November 17, 2025

With new opportunities, ECE is building a community of undergraduate researchers

Grace Xing, Zetian Mi, Seth Ariel Tongay, Shanhui Fan, Shiwen Mao

ECE Distinguished Speaker Seminar Series

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is proud to host the 2025-2026 ECE Distinguished Speaker Seminar Series, featuring leaders whose groundbreaking work is shaping the future of technology and society. This year’s series brings four renowned experts to campus to share their insights, research, and vision with students, faculty, and the broader community.

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