Why Isn't It There Yet? (John Langan)

John Langan is a seasoned innovation expert in the semiconductor industry. With over 35 years of experience in R&D, he is driven by his deep passion for innovation and technological advancement. As the Chief Technology Officer of EMD Electronics, the Electronics business of Merck KGaA Darmstadt, Germany, John oversees the development and execution of the business sector’s technology strategy. His work enables EMD Electronics to continuously meet today’s industry needs while preparing for tomorrow’s demands. ​John began his career at Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. where he held various roles within the organization, including Research Scientist, Business Development Manager, and Technology Manager. He later joined Lam Research as Director of Technology. In 2005, he returned to Air Products to become the company’s Electronics Division Head of R&D. That division later spun out of Air Products to become Versum Materials and John became the Chief Technology Officer. In 2019, the company was acquired by Merck KGaA Darmstadt, Germany, a vibrant science and technology company that operates in three business sectors – Healthcare, Life Science and Electronics. John created the Chief Technology Office as part of the new integrated Electronics business and continues to lead that team today.​John holds a PhD in Physical Chemistry from Columbia University and was a post doctoral associate at MIT. He is based in Carlsbad, California.