Innovative Engineering Professor Bridging Optics and Electronics at Harvey Mudd
Joshua Brake is an Assistant Professor of Engineering at Harvey Mudd College, specializing in embedded systems, optics, and electrical engineering. He earned his Ph.D. and M.S. in Electrical Engineering from Caltech, following his M.S. and B.S. in Engineering from LeTourneau University. Brake's research focuses on developing new tools and techniques in biomedical optics to enhance tissue imaging. At Harvey Mudd, he teaches across the engineering curriculum, with a particular emphasis on digital electronics, embedded systems, and optics. Brake is passionate about helping students develop their technical skills alongside their communication abilities. His work in biophotonics aims to improve optical imaging of biological tissues, with potential applications in biomedical diagnostics and therapies. Outside of academia, Brake enjoys running, spending time with his family, and following sports. His journey from student to professor, including his experience as a Supplemental Instruction leader at LeTourneau, has shaped his teaching philosophy, emphasizing student-centered learning and practical application of engineering principles.