Distinguished Professor Chennupati Jagadish has been awarded Australia's highest honour for his service to physics and engineering, leading a string of ANU academics recognised in the 2016 Australia Day Honours.

Professor Jagadish was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) for eminent service to physics and engineering, particularly in the field of nanotechnology, to education as a leading academic, researcher, author and mentor, and through executive roles with national and international scientific advisory institutions.

Professor Jagadish said he was humbled, honoured and grateful for this honour.

"This is a wonderful recognition for 25 plus years of work with my research group at the ANU," said Professor Jagadish, who works on semiconductor optoelectronics and nanotechnology.

In 2015, Professor Jagadish and his wife Dr Vidya Jagadish set up a new endowment fund provide researchers and students from the developing world to the world-class facilities at ANU.

Professor Jagadish paid tribute to the many people who had contributed to his research career, from students to international collaborators.

"It is a privilege and pleasure to work with enthusiastic colleagues who are passionate about what they do," he said.