Students learn about nanotechnology and metamaterials

The Optoelectronics Research Centre’s (ORC) Nanophotonics and Metamaterials group has hosted a group of 52 six-form students this week from King Edward VI School, Southampton.

The visit to the Nanofabrication Cleanrooms at the University of Southampton is one of a series of outreach events designed and organised by the Centre for Photonic Metamaterials to widen awareness and participation of students in science and engineering. Dr Eric Plum, Lecturer at the Centre for Photonic Metamaterials, hosting the visit, said:

“It is great to see so many young people interested in science. It is our job to tell them about the exciting opportunities that emerge from the world-leading research going on in Southampton and to inspire them to go on to become the scientists and engineers that will drive progress in the future.”

This event is a continuation of the strong theme of education and outreach through this year’s International Year of Light, the official UK opening of which was held just last week by IYL patron, the Duke of York. These events underline the value to the UK economy of scientists and engineers at a time when many companies report that they are unable to fill vacancies due to skills shortages. The nation needs more young people to take A-level physics.

Dr Helen Dean, Physics Teacher, King Edward VI School commented: “It’s been fantastic to be able to bring the students to see the world-leading research conducted here. The students found the visit very interesting and seeing their School Crest etched onto a human hair was top of their ‘cool’ list.”