Photonics4All aims to raise awareness of the importance of photonics in the community as well as in business and industry through a variety of activities and events such as business innovation workshops, start-up challenges and a 'Photonics Science Slam'. For young people and students, there will be a quiz, an app, business boot camps and a Schools Photonics Day to promote the study of Physics and Optics.
Pearl John, public engagement leader for Physics and Astronomy at the University of Southampton, says: "It's very exciting to be working on this project. I am particularly interested in promoting women in photonics and it's great to play such an important role in getting the message out across the EU."
The University will be collaborating with the South East Photonics Network which aims to address the skills shortage in the photonics industry in the region by engaging schools, colleges and university students with hands-on photonics activities.
John adds: "We aim to increase awareness of the local photonics industries, help leverage our collective knowledge and uncover more photonics applications making it easier for organisations to develop new products and access this key enabling technology."
