Photonic integrated circuits (PICs) are at the core of modern communications, powering everything from 5G networks to AI data centers. This article explores how AIM Photonics has strengthened U.S. manufacturing by creating an accessible, low-cost multi-project wafer (MPW) platform that accelerates innovation from design to production.

In the latest episode of Photonics in Focus, Sarat Gundavarapu of SiPhox Health discusses the development of SiPhox Home, an innovative in-home diagnostic platform powered by photonic chips. The conversation explores how collaboration with AIM Photonics supported the advancement of this breakthrough technology—from early design challenges to scalable manufacturing solutions.

Strategic financial support—whether awarded directly to AIM Photonics or to partners working in collaboration—enables the Institute to contribute to high-impact research that pushes the boundaries of integrated photonics.

As industries from quantum computing to AI and advanced manufacturing increasingly depend on photonics, the field faces a critical obstacle: a shortage of skilled professionals. This article examines how the growing workforce gap is slowing progress in developing quantum computers, high-speed data centers and other technologies that rely on integrated photonics.

A surge of public and private investment is transforming photonics from an emerging technology into a critical enabler for manufacturing advances in light-based technologies across multiple sectors. This article traces how investments from major technology companies, public funding and Department of Defense initiatives are accelerating innovation in AI, communications, healthcare and national security.

Collaboration through AIM Photonics’ BioINSPECT program—a joint initiative between AIM Photonics and Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI) | BioFabUSA—is helping drive new advances in regenerative medicine. Under the program, AIM Photonics member Phlotonics Inc. has been awarded a $1.1M contract to work with leading academic researchers from the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology to adapt its BioproSense™ platform for regenerative biomanufacturing.

As semiconductor manufacturers ramp up production of photonic integrated circuits, the demand for skilled technicians and engineers is outpacing the available talent pipeline. This article examines how companies, universities and specialized training programs are expanding hands-on education and employer-specific initiatives to close the skills gap in integrated photonics manufacturing.