Robert Christopher Bowen

Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, TX.

Chris was born on December 30, 1965 to Nancy and Robert Bowen in Dublin, Georgia. He

attended Georgia Tech where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. He

received his Master’s and Ph.D Degrees from The University of Texas at Dallas. A brilliant

scientist and leader in the field of nanotechnology and quantum physics, Chris worked at Texas

Instruments, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Lockheed Martin Advanced Technology

Laboratories, and Samsung. Over the course of his 30-year career, he accumulated more than

50 patents and 80 publications.

Chris was a world-renowned researcher who was able to relate fundamental understanding of

quantum mechanics at the nanometer scale to real devices. When we use our cell phones, we

are accessing his technology. We often wonder how “they” made faster and better technology,

he was one of “them”. Chris was greatly respected by his colleagues for his brilliant insights into the physics of transistors, and his judgement on theoretical and practical matters. His drive was to simplify

complex concepts for a broader understanding. Such insights were not limited to physics and

engineering, but to all aspects of life where he was a true friend and guide to his colleagues.

Chris’s passions expanded beyond his work life. He was a devoted father who adored his

children and participated in their pursuits. He was Olivia’s biggest golf cheerleader, and shared

her love of guitar. It brought him great joy that Nicholas shares his passion for computer

science and innovating technology for the future. He was a lifelong Miami Dolphins fan, and he

found solace in his love for raising and racing whippets.

Chris is survived by his parents, Robert and Nancy Bowen; his wife, Dr. Chen Xiang Ha; his

children, Nicholas and Olivia; his brother James (Candice), his sister Katie (Jose); and his

nieces and nephews: Ashley (Narender), Whitney, Bella and Carter.

A funeral service is scheduled at 10:00 AM on December 21, 2019 at Cook-Walden Chapel of

Hills Funeral Home (9700 Anderson Mill Road, Austin, Texas) with open casket visitation at 9:00

AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Dr. Robert Christopher Bowen at the

charity of your choice.