KDF RELEASE 2004
KDF today named Ammar Derraa, an award-winning scientist and author of more than 50 U.S. patents and disclosures, to the position of director of technology. Dr. Derraa succeeds Su Gupta, who left KDF late last year to pursue a university teaching career. Dr. Derraa will report directly to KDF CEO Kurt Flechsig.
“Dr. Derraa brings to KDF impeccable credentials and an outstanding record of technological achievement. His technical expertise will drive the creation of competitive solutions at KDF for years to come,” Mr. Flechsig said. “We are honored to welcome him aboard. We are also gratified that KDF was able to replace our departed director of technology in such a timely manner, which will ensure that we do not lose momentum as we continue along our product development roadmap.”
As director of technology, Dr. Derraa assumes responsibility for all KDF technology, with a particular emphasis on research and development. This includes overseeing the development of new KDF technology, including advancements upon the company’s series of sputtering tools, and service and customization of pre-owned MRC systems.
“It is with great pleasure that I assume the duties of director of technology at KDF,” Dr. Derraa said. “With nearly 20 years of history in the semiconductor industry and a reputation for innovative technology, KDF is an exciting company to be part of. I look forward to participating in the next phase of the company’s development.”
Prior to joining KDF, Dr. Derraa worked for NanoOpto Corp., where he led a nanotechnology project developing new nano-devices with dimensions smaller than the wavelength of light. Previously he was at Micron Technology, where he worked on many projects focused on the development of new technologies, including flat panel displays and various computer memory devices. Dr. Derraa has a rich background in academic and commercial research. He holds a PhD in physics from the University of Toronto, an MSc in physics from Queen’s University, and a BSc in physics from the University of Constantine. His achievements include the Reginald Blyth Award (1994-94), the E. Burton Fellowship (1990-93), and the John Nadeau Award (1990). He has filed 54 patents (36 awarded, 18 pending) and has more than a dozen technical and conference publications to his credit.
