Ross to Lead US-Scotland Photonics Project

Iain Ross was named director at SU²P, a £2.4 million initiative between universities in Scotland and California which will enhance the economic impact of their research in photonics and related technologies.

Key themes of the three-year project will include: industrial collaboration and knowledge exchange; entrepreneurial fellowships for young researchers; turning research into commercial opportunity; development of an investor network for photonics technology and problem-solving work with industry.

The partnership will bring together the Universities of Strathclyde, St. Andrews, Glasgow and Heriot-Watt, Stanford University and the California Institute of Technology. It is funded by Research Councils UK – as part of its Science Bridges award – Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Funding Council.

With more than 30 years experience in the photonics industry, Ross has worked closely with industrial and academic partners. In his new post, he plans to deepen the links between the universities in both the US and UK to deliver opportunities for successful commercialization.

Coherent Scotland Ltd., M Squared Lasers, Optos plc, Selex Galileo and Thales Optronics have been in discussion with and have helped shape the program.

The venture’s first three entrepreneurial fellows are currently learning new skill at Stanford University.

For more information, visit: www.su2p.com