Howard Matis is a distinguished physicist and accomplished leader with over 50 years of experience in scientific research, technology development, and educational outreach. With a career spanning the globe, Howard has left an indelible mark on the fields of data science, physics, and advanced technology, contributing to groundbreaking projects and fostering collaboration across industries.
As a Staff Scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) for nearly three decades, Howard played a pivotal role in numerous large-scale projects. His contributions to the development of silicon detectors and cryo-electron microscopy earned recognition from the Nobel Prize Committee, underscoring his ability to drive innovation at the highest levels. Howard’s expertise in data acquisition, modeling, and machine learning has also been instrumental in advancing research in high-energy physics and other domains.
Howard’s leadership extends beyond the laboratory. He served as the subsystem manager for the Silicon Vertex Tracker, a $30 million Department of Energy project, where he led the design, budgeting, and successful completion of critical milestones. His ability to manage interdisciplinary teams and implement complex technical solutions has been a hallmark of his career.
Currently, Howard is the President of the Contemporary Physics Education Project (CPEP), an organization dedicated to making physics accessible and engaging for students and educators worldwide. Under his leadership, CPEP has embraced e-commerce platforms like Amazon.com, expanding the reach of its innovative educational materials. This dedication to education earned Howard the 2017 Excellence in Physics Education Award from the American Physical Society.
Howard’s professional accomplishments are complemented by his diverse consulting experience. As a Senior Advisor with Silicon Valley Associates, he has guided startups in sensor development, machine learning applications, and data analytics. His work has included writing patents, designing testing software, and advising on hardware and software integration, demonstrating his ability to bridge theory and application effectively.
Internationally, Howard has traveled to every continent (including Antarctica, where he spent a month at the actual South Pole) except for Australia, presenting at scientific conferences and collaborating with researchers worldwide. His ability to navigate diverse cultural and professional environments reflects his global perspective and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Howard is a dedicated member of his community. He serves as a board member for Through The Looking Glass, an organization providing childcare and education, and as a member of the Alameda County Pedestrian Bicycle Committee. His past roles include treasurer of the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory Retirees Association and a founding member of the North Hills Association.
Howard’s academic foundation includes a Ph.D. in Physics from The University of Chicago, where he developed a lifelong passion for scientific discovery. He has continued to expand his expertise with certifications in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning from Stanford University via Coursera.
In his personal life, Howard enjoys photography and cycling, hobbies that mirror his curiosity and drive for exploration. As he transitions into this new phase of his career, Howard seeks to contribute his wealth of knowledge and experience to organizations through board service. His visionary leadership, deep technical expertise, and passion for education position him as an invaluable asset to any board or advisory role.
Character
Howard Matis exemplifies integrity, curiosity, and a lifelong dedication to advancing science and education.
Knowledge
With over 50 years of experience, he possesses deep expertise in physics, data science, machine learning, and advanced technology applications.
Strategic
Howard’s ability to lead complex projects and interdisciplinary teams demonstrates his strategic acumen in solving technical and organizational challenges.
Communication
As a seasoned speaker and educator, he excels in translating complex scientific concepts into accessible knowledge for diverse audiences.
