Dr. Karen Lightman

Professor

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Biography

Karen Lightman is the Executive Director of the Metro21: Smart Cities Institute at Carnegie Mellon University. She is an internationally recognized leader in building and supporting communities based on emerging technologies and is well-regarded in the MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems) industry. Lightman was instrumental in starting and leading the MEMS & Sensors Industry Group (MSIG), the largest industry consortium focused solely on MEMS sensors. Under her leadership, MSIG successfully covered the MEMS value chain and orchestrated numerous international conferences and workshops. She also led the successful acquisition of MSIG by SEMI, the world’s largest semiconductor association. With expertise in commercializing academic research and building industry-based consortiums, Lightman strategically leads teams to explore market-based opportunities. Her diverse background encompasses the consumer, military, healthcare, manufacturing, and automotive sectors. She was ranked by EETimes as one of the top 25 'Women Tech Leaders' and serves as a passionate advocate and spokesperson for technology solutions that address real-world problems. Additionally, she holds board positions, including the current treasurer of the MetroLab Network.

Research Interests

Requirements for Carnegie Mellon University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
GRE General
Verbal
Required:158
Quantitative
Required:149
Analytical Writing
Required:4
Overall
Required:4
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field Research experience/publications
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • GRE scores (optional but reported in profile)
  • English Proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo)
Specialization Notes

Admission is extremely competitive with no strict GPA cut-offs; holistic review is used.