Institute of Optics Archives - News Center

Close-up of a nanoparticle in a phonon laser beam.

Science & Technology

Quantum researchers engineer extremely precise phonon lasers

Novel lasers utilize individual particles of vibration or sound to measure quantum mechanics and gravity.

Group photo of the 17 or so people who comprise the NSF STELLAR team at URochester, including government and industry partners.

University News

NSF explores Rochester as a potential national hub for laser research and development

The URochester-led STELLAR project is a finalist in the NSF’s Regional Innovation Engines competition.

Close up of a rainbow-hued photonic chip coupled to a clear and metallic nonlinear crystal and fiber array unit.

University News

URochester, RIT receive federal funding to expand experimental ways to communicate using individual particles of light

February 12, 2026

The funding for the experimental quantum network RoQNET was secured by Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, and Representative Morelle.

Five unsinkable metal tubes bound together and seen from above floating in water with bubbles nearby and an overall blue cast.

Science & Technology

Scientists engineer unsinkable metal tubes

January 27, 2026

The superhydrophobic design could lead to resilient ships, floating platforms, and renewable energy innovations.

university seal.

University News

URochester faculty appointed to named professorships

January 26, 2026

Named positions are part of a long-standing tradition to celebrate the work of URochester’s faculty as researchers, scholars, and teachers.

Illustration of a light-matter state called a polariton.

Science & Technology

URochester awarded Keck Foundation funding to tackle chemistry grand challenge

January 23, 2026

The cutting-edge project aims to harness quantum light to unlock new chemical processes.

Students test AR/VR smart glasses in a classroom, with one gesturing while others watch and discuss the experience.

Science & Technology

Student-created AR/VR tools help everywhere from the classroom to the operating room

December 18, 2025

Transdisciplinary class empowers emerging technologists to develop AR/VR solutions using AI and the latest hardware from Meta and Snap Inc.

Health & Medicine

Can lost vision be restored?

December 8, 2025

URochester researchers are at the forefront of improving eyesight while discovering how our visual system works.

Science & Technology

Barry Silverstein ’84 to help lead the future of AR/VR at URochester

November 19, 2025

The former senior director and chief technology officer of optics and display in Meta’s Reality Labs will direct the Center for Extended Reality.

URochester student wears augmented reality glasses and gestures in the air.

Science & Technology

Metasurfaces show promise in boosting AR image clarity and brightness

November 11, 2025

New design could make augmented reality glasses more power-efficient and practical for everyday wear.