Donald C. Fraser is the founder and Director of the Boston University Center for Photonics Research, which prototypes and develops new photonic based products in business partnerships with individual companies. He earned his doctoral degree from MIT, and has over 30 years of experience in all facets of research, development, engineering, and management with particular focus on the development and fielding of complex systems. Before joining Boston University in 1993, he served as Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and as Executive Vice President of the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory. He is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and a recipient of the Defense Distinguished Service Medal.