Optoelectronics Research Centre Hosts Successful Industry Day at University of Southampton
The Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) at the University of Southampton welcomed over 120 delegates from industry and academia for its annual Industry Day. The event showcased cutting-edge photonics research and encouraged collaboration across various sectors.
The full-day event featured talks from leading ORC academics and staff. They offered detailed overviews of transformative research currently in progress. Topics included hollow-core fibres, AI-powered smart lasers, and photonics applications in quantum technologies, communications, manufacturing, and healthcare. This highlighted the ORC’s crucial role in shaping the future of photonics.
Delegates also got an exclusive look at the University’s state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities. They learned about tools, advanced capabilities, and opportunities for collaborative projects. An update on Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) and outreach initiatives showed the ORC’s commitment to fostering an inclusive research environment and tackling challenges in the sector.
Throughout the day, attendees viewed poster presentations from students and academics. These sparked discussions on emerging technologies and innovative solutions. The event wrapped up with a networking and drinks reception. This provided a chance to create new partnerships and strengthen existing connections.
Prof Graham Reed (ORC Director) said: "The ORC Industry Day is a great chance to highlight the innovative research taking place at the ORC and to build our partnerships with industry and academic stakeholders. Photonics is central to the technologies that will shape the future, including quantum systems, communications, environmental monitoring, AI, healthcare, and manufacturing. By collaborating, we can accelerate innovation and ensure that photonics continues to have a genuine impact in the real world."
The ORC’s Industry Day reinforced its status as a global leader in photonics research and innovation. It drives advancements that impact industries and society worldwide.