Richard A. Lethin

Engineer and researcher · Business leader · Advisor

My work is where software meets silicon: compilers, computer architecture, and high-performance computing, from the first commercial VLIW machines to today's AI accelerators. I am VP, Compiler Labs at Qualcomm.

Engineer and researcher

I started at Multiflow Computer (1985–1989), on the CPU team for the TRACE series of VLIW computers. At MIT (1989–1997), I was on the team that designed the J-Machine, a massively parallel message-driven computer, and earned my Ph.D. with William J. Dally as my advisor. I am a Hertz Fellow.

I am a named inventor on 52 issued US patents (1993–2025), and my publications cover compilers, parallel architecture, tensor algorithms, and network analysis.

Business leader

As founder and President of Reservoir Labs (1997–2021), I built an advanced computing R&D company, without external funding, into a trusted partner for DARPA, DOE, DoD, and commercial customers. Its work included the R-Stream polyhedral compiler, sparse tensor algorithms, and high-speed network analysis. Qualcomm acquired the company's business in 2021.

At Qualcomm since then, I have led advanced compiler development for AI acceleration across edge and cloud platforms.

Advisor

I served on the Department of Energy's Advanced Scientific Computing Advisory Committee (2016–2022), advising on high-performance computing strategy and research investment, and co-authored its subcommittee report Top Ten Exascale Research Challenges. I also taught at Yale University (2000–2021), including Computer Architectures for AI and VLSI Design, and advised students there.