Photonics now has its own institute, and the University of Luxembourg is one of its nine members, alongside CentraleSupélec, GDI Simulation, Grand E-Nov+, Sayens, the University de Haute Alsace, the Université de Lorraine, the University of Technology of Troyes and the University of Strasbourg.
Photonics is the branch of physics that studies the creation, manipulation and transmission of photons. In practice, particles of light are used to carry data. This opens up a wide range of applications, from industrial applications such as laser cutting to communications applications such as fibre-optic networks.
‟ The optical science is everywhere, and photonics is at work behind the scenes in many aspects of our daily lives.”
Professor of physics at the University of Luxembourg and co-head of research and innovation at the Institut de Photonique
One only needs to look at optical sensors that can be found in locations as diverse as shop front doors or driver assistance systems in cars.
Currently, a dozen students are taking prof. Brida’s course in laser physics, and as many doctoral students are working on a photonics-related research project at the University.
Cross-border synergies
“The Institute of Photonics is unique in Europe. Unique in terms of its coverage, because it brings together the largest consortium of public and private players (9 signatories and 13 founding members), in terms of its ambitious mission, and also in terms of the creation of a building in Metz that is designed as a showcase for photonics”, comments Marc Sciamanna, director of the Institut de Photonique.
It aims to strengthen synergies between players in the photonics ecosystem, promote local expertise and contribute to the influence and attractiveness of the Grand Est region and Luxembourg in this field. Its three priorities are to carry out collaborative research projects, attract and train new talent and raise public awareness of the challenges of photonics.
The nine members are bound by a five-year consortium agreement. Its signature on 14 February 2024 officially validated the creation of the Institut de Photonique. This will bring together more than 300 photonics researchers and students across the Grand Est region and Luxembourg. From 2027, the Institute will have a central building of over 2,000 m² on the CentraleSupélec site in Metz.
© Image at the top: CentraleSupélec / Chaire Photonique