Electrical and computer engineers shape the future through innovation. They develop and improve systems that serve everyday needs of society spanning from high-voltage engineering and sustainable energy, to breakthroughs in wireless technology. Our faculty and students do everything from creating low-cost digital x-ray imagers to combat tuberculosis in developing countries, to building real-time embedded systems to advance the design and reliability of commercial products. ECE - the future is what we do.
Research
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is a dynamic and innovative hub of cutting-edge advancements in technology and engineering. Faculty members lead pioneering research in areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence, communications, embedded systems, and renewable energy, addressing real-world challenges and driving technological breakthroughs.
Resources
News
A new nanoscale diamond structure that better collects and controls light
Researchers at the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo have demonstrated a nanoscale optical device that makes it easier to probe quantum systems with light to enable more efficient quantum sensors and solid-state quantum computing systems. The new device was demonstrated in diamond as a proof of principle.
This optical device has the potential to make quantum sensors better at detecting weak magnetic fields, which could enhance technologies in biomedical imaging or navigation in GPS-denied environments. It could also advance solid-state quantum computing architectures by improving control and readout of individual quantum bits (qubits), and the transfer of quantum information between them.
Electrical and computer engineering professor, Dr. Xuemin (Sherman) Shen, receives IEEE Canada A.G.L. McNaughton Award
Dr. Xuemin (Sherman) Shen, University Professor Emeritus in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at the University of Waterloo, has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the IEEE Canada A.G.L. McNaughton Award, one of the organization’s most prestigious medal distinctions recognizing outstanding contributions to electrical and electronics engineering.
The award citation recognizes Dr. Shen:
“For contributions to wireless and ultra-band communication networks with substantial impact on accessibility, security, and user privacy protection.”
Electrical and computer engineering professor, Dr. Alfred Yu, receives IEEE Canada Outstanding Engineer Award
Electrical and computer engineering professor, Dr. Alfred Yu, has been named the 2026 recipient of the IEEE Canada Outstanding Engineer Award, one of the organization’s highest honours recognizing excellence and impact in electrical and electronics engineering.
The award citation recognizes Dr. Yu:
“For transformative innovations in next-generation ultrasound imaging technology that have advanced clinical scanners and enhanced cardiovascular diagnostics.”