PHOTONICS IN FOCUS
Exploring how integrated photonics is advancing U.S. industry, innovation, and economic growth
This podcast brings together leading voices from research, industry and academia to examine the rapid advances in integrated photonics and their impact on technology and the economy. The series explores how this transformative technology is laying the foundation for innovation across critical industries like health care, defense, transportation, computing, communications and more. It also considers the broader implications of these advancements, from strengthening global competitiveness and contributing to national economic growth to supporting workforce programs that prepare the next generation of highly skilled professionals.
Subscribe today and learn how AIM Photonics and its partners are shaping the future of integrated photonics in the U.S.
SiPhox Health: Where Integrated Photonics Meets Personal Wellness
Sarat Gundavarapu of SiPhox Health shares how his team developed SiPhox Home, an in-home diagnostic platform powered by photonic chips. He reflects on the collaboration with AIM Photonics that helped make this innovation possible and explores how integrated photonics could reshape the future of personal healthcare.
Real Work, Real Impact: Inside AIM Photonics’ Internship Program
Dr. Robert Geer, AIM Photonics’ Director of Education and Workforce Development, and Andrada Niculae, Experiential Learning Coordinator at NY CREATES, discuss with interns how hands-on learning in a real-world R&D environment like AIM Photonics helps them build the specialized skills needed for their future roles in the industry.
Advanced Packaging Insights: Inside AIM Photonics’ TAP Facility
Chris Striemer, AIM Photonics’ Director of Test, Assembly, and Packaging Operations, and Mark Wagner, TAP Operations Manager, discuss how AIM Photonics is filling a critical U.S. packaging gap. They highlight how TAP works closely with customers to address their unique design and prototype needs, helping companies move ideas from concept to demonstration more effectively.
Tapping the Top of the Talent Funnel
Kevin McComber, Founder and Executive Director of the Spark Photonics Foundation, shares how the Foundation’s hands-on K–12 program introduces students to the science and technology of light at an early age. Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, the program encourages students to imagine how photonics can solve real-world problems, inspiring future careers in the field.
The Evolution of AIM Photonics
Dr. John Bowers, Director of the Institute for Energy Efficiency at UCSB—a founding member of AIM Photnics—reflects on the inception and evolution of the Institute since 2015. He highlights how AIM Photonics has filled a critical national need for integrated photonics manufacturing and design, enabling breakthroughs that strengthen U.S. competitiveness in the global photonics industry.