Illuminated: IEEE Photonics Podcast Wed, 01 Apr 2026 17:16:25 -0400 https://ieeephotonics.buzzsprout.com en-us © 2026 Illuminated: IEEE Photonics Podcast yes 519d5704-d981-5703-be2c-9c409e91d3aa photonicssociety@ieee.org IEEE Photonics Society episodic false Illuminated by IEEE Photonics is a podcast series that shines a light on hot topics in photonics, and the subject matter experts advancing technology forward.



]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) IEEE Photonics Society photonicssociety@ieee.org https://storage.buzzsprout.com/2vtt2zdvcl3f425l5yxg6xa9y1t0?.jpg Illuminated: IEEE Photonics Podcast Akhil Kallepalli Daniel Renner Jacques Carolan Kristen Amoroso Lauren Mecum Lorenzo Pavesi Matt Ramandi Senta (Scholl) Jantzen Thierry Lapointe-Leclerc Illuminating the Past, Present, and Future of Photonics Illuminating the Past, Present, and Future of Photonics A conversation with Professor Sir David Payne inspires exploration into the fascinating history of optical fiber technology and its role in the evolution of the internet. We delve into the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing photonics and the future of AI integration. 

In addition, insightful discussions were had with the speaker about the rich history of the Society as we celebrate 60 years of advocacy, community, and empowerment in support of innovation. These conversations highlight how far we've come and the ongoing impact of our work in advancing the photonics field globally.

In this episode, discover more about:
• Insights into his pioneering work in optical fiber fabrication, as well as the importance of the Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifier in telecommunications;
• Advancements in hollow core fiber technology and its implications for fiber optics;
• Future applications of AI and optical interconnects in data centers;
• Exploration of sustainability challenges for the photonics industry.

[Find out more about our initiatives and get involved with the Young Professionals Initiative.]

Expert Speaker: Sir David Payne

Moderator: Dr. Richard Pitwon

Host: Akhil Kallepalli

Stay Connected with IEEE Photonics Society: 

Facebook | X (formerly Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram

IEEE Photonics | Privacy Policy


Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> A conversation with Professor Sir David Payne inspires exploration into the fascinating history of optical fiber technology and its role in the evolution of the internet. We delve into the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing photonics and the future of AI integration. 

In addition, insightful discussions were had with the speaker about the rich history of the Society as we celebrate 60 years of advocacy, community, and empowerment in support of innovation. These conversations highlight how far we've come and the ongoing impact of our work in advancing the photonics field globally.

In this episode, discover more about:
• Insights into his pioneering work in optical fiber fabrication, as well as the importance of the Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifier in telecommunications;
• Advancements in hollow core fiber technology and its implications for fiber optics;
• Future applications of AI and optical interconnects in data centers;
• Exploration of sustainability challenges for the photonics industry.

[Find out more about our initiatives and get involved with the Young Professionals Initiative.]

Expert Speaker: Sir David Payne

Moderator: Dr. Richard Pitwon

Host: Akhil Kallepalli

Stay Connected with IEEE Photonics Society: 

Facebook | X (formerly Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram

IEEE Photonics | Privacy Policy


Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> IEEE Photonics Society Buzzsprout-16684712 Mon, 24 Feb 2025 14:00:00 -0500 5847 2 1 full false Revolutionizing Electronics with Phase Change Materials Revolutionizing Electronics with Phase Change Materials Discover how phase change materials (PCMs) are set to revolutionize the future of electronics with our expert speaker, Winnie Ye from Carleton University. Moderated by Rachel Won from Nature Photonics, we unravel the remarkable capabilities of PCMs that enable rapid and reversible shifts in optical and electrical properties. These materials promise significant advancements in areas such as optical communication and neuromorphic computing. Ye offers a trove of knowledge on these cutting-edge technologies, providing career-focused advice to those eager to explore the world of photonics.

Peering into the future, the discussion examines the potential of PCMs in emerging sectors like quantum computing and their integration with 2D materials. Collaboration is key, as we discuss the synergy between academia, industry, and government to drive advancements in this dynamic field. For those at the start of their careers, the podcast offers sage advice on navigating mentorship, the power of volunteering, and the journey to building a successful scientific career. This episode promises a wealth of insights, from technical depths to personal growth avenues in the scientific community.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Chancellor's Fellow and Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Strathclyde, UK

Moderator:
Rachel Won
International Editor
Nature Photonics

Expert:
Winnie Ye
Professor
Carleton University, CAN

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> Discover how phase change materials (PCMs) are set to revolutionize the future of electronics with our expert speaker, Winnie Ye from Carleton University. Moderated by Rachel Won from Nature Photonics, we unravel the remarkable capabilities of PCMs that enable rapid and reversible shifts in optical and electrical properties. These materials promise significant advancements in areas such as optical communication and neuromorphic computing. Ye offers a trove of knowledge on these cutting-edge technologies, providing career-focused advice to those eager to explore the world of photonics.

Peering into the future, the discussion examines the potential of PCMs in emerging sectors like quantum computing and their integration with 2D materials. Collaboration is key, as we discuss the synergy between academia, industry, and government to drive advancements in this dynamic field. For those at the start of their careers, the podcast offers sage advice on navigating mentorship, the power of volunteering, and the journey to building a successful scientific career. This episode promises a wealth of insights, from technical depths to personal growth avenues in the scientific community.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Chancellor's Fellow and Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Strathclyde, UK

Moderator:
Rachel Won
International Editor
Nature Photonics

Expert:
Winnie Ye
Professor
Carleton University, CAN

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> IEEE Photonics Society Buzzsprout-16170873 Tue, 26 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0500 3138 1 9 full false The Transformative Power of Optical Networking in AI The Transformative Power of Optical Networking in AI How do cutting-edge optical technologies elevate the performance of AI systems? Tune in to our latest episode of Illuminated, where we feature Laurent Schares from IBM Research. Laurent walks us through the pivotal role optical interconnects play in modern data centers and AI clusters, illustrating how these advancements are transforming high-performance environments. Discover the intricate relationship between advanced optical networking, system integration, and the groundbreaking hardware innovations that are driving the future of AI.

In the episode, the moderator and speaker we dive into the human side of tech innovation with insights on professional growth and mentorship. Laurent reveals his personal journey, underscoring the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and a supportive work environment. From peer reviews to mentoring the next generation of scientists, we unpack how contributing to the scientific community fosters both personal and professional development.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Chancellor's Fellow and Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Strathclyde, UK

Moderator:
Brandon Buscaino
Research Scientist
Ciena, USA

Expert:
Laurent Schares
Senior Scientist
IBM Research, USA

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> How do cutting-edge optical technologies elevate the performance of AI systems? Tune in to our latest episode of Illuminated, where we feature Laurent Schares from IBM Research. Laurent walks us through the pivotal role optical interconnects play in modern data centers and AI clusters, illustrating how these advancements are transforming high-performance environments. Discover the intricate relationship between advanced optical networking, system integration, and the groundbreaking hardware innovations that are driving the future of AI.

In the episode, the moderator and speaker we dive into the human side of tech innovation with insights on professional growth and mentorship. Laurent reveals his personal journey, underscoring the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and a supportive work environment. From peer reviews to mentoring the next generation of scientists, we unpack how contributing to the scientific community fosters both personal and professional development.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Chancellor's Fellow and Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Strathclyde, UK

Moderator:
Brandon Buscaino
Research Scientist
Ciena, USA

Expert:
Laurent Schares
Senior Scientist
IBM Research, USA

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> IEEE Photonics Society Buzzsprout-15509559 Sat, 01 Jun 2024 13:00:00 -0400 3380 1 8 full false Revolutionizing Data Transfer with Cutting-Edge Fiber Innovations Revolutionizing Data Transfer with Cutting-Edge Fiber Innovations Unlock the mysteries behind the cables and connections that power our digital lives with Nokia Bell Labs' Xi (Vivian) Chen and Fatima Gunning, from Tyndall National Institute. This episode promises a fascinating exploration into the world of high-speed optical fiber communications—a vital yet often overlooked cornerstone of modern technology. As we journey from the switch from copper to the latest in fiber technology, you'll discover the incredible engineering feats that allow you to stream, browse, and connect at the speed of light.

Join us as the experts also discuss topics like the transition from materials like lithium niobate to the realms of silicon photonics and indium phosphide—all pivotal in our quest for faster data transmission. Further conversations are had on the challenges of adapting these technologies to new fiber types and how innovations like multicore and few-mode fibers could redefine the landscape of global connectivity.

However, the chat isn't just about bits and bytes; reflect on the values that underpin successful leadership in science and the fresh perspectives brought in by emerging talent. By the end of this episode, you'll be looking at the tangle of cords behind your desk with a newfound reverence for the photons racing through them and the people behind the innovation!

Host:
Thierry Lapinte-Leclerc
PhD Student
Boston University, USA

Moderator:
Fatima Garcia-Gunning
Senior Staff Researcher
Tyndall National Institute, Ireland

Expert:
Xi (Vivian) Chen
Department Head, Optoelectronic Sub-systems 
Nokia Bell Labs, USA

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> Unlock the mysteries behind the cables and connections that power our digital lives with Nokia Bell Labs' Xi (Vivian) Chen and Fatima Gunning, from Tyndall National Institute. This episode promises a fascinating exploration into the world of high-speed optical fiber communications—a vital yet often overlooked cornerstone of modern technology. As we journey from the switch from copper to the latest in fiber technology, you'll discover the incredible engineering feats that allow you to stream, browse, and connect at the speed of light.

Join us as the experts also discuss topics like the transition from materials like lithium niobate to the realms of silicon photonics and indium phosphide—all pivotal in our quest for faster data transmission. Further conversations are had on the challenges of adapting these technologies to new fiber types and how innovations like multicore and few-mode fibers could redefine the landscape of global connectivity.

However, the chat isn't just about bits and bytes; reflect on the values that underpin successful leadership in science and the fresh perspectives brought in by emerging talent. By the end of this episode, you'll be looking at the tangle of cords behind your desk with a newfound reverence for the photons racing through them and the people behind the innovation!

Host:
Thierry Lapinte-Leclerc
PhD Student
Boston University, USA

Moderator:
Fatima Garcia-Gunning
Senior Staff Researcher
Tyndall National Institute, Ireland

Expert:
Xi (Vivian) Chen
Department Head, Optoelectronic Sub-systems 
Nokia Bell Labs, USA

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> IEEE Photonics Society Buzzsprout-14504316 Wed, 10 Apr 2024 13:00:00 -0400 3347 1 7 full false Pioneering Biomedical Imaging with Computational Tools Pioneering Biomedical Imaging with Computational Tools Discover how Professor Aydogan Ozcan and his team's journey through the evolving landscape of computational optical biomedical imaging is revolutionizing global health diagnostics. He peels back the layers of how AI and deep learning are reshaping the future of medical imaging, and the profound impact of computational techniques in resource-limited settings.

In this episode, discussions are also had with moderator Peter Munro about the regulations and ethical considerations of AI, confronting the reality of health inequality and the promise of technology in bridging the gap. Each share the pivotal moments and mentorship experiences that inspired a continuous cycle of curiosity and innovation in their careers. The conversation will impart knowledge on our listeners but also ignite a spark for lifelong learning and discovery.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Glasgow, UK

Moderator:
Peter Munro
Professor and Vice Dean of Research
University College London, UK

Expert:
Aydogan Ozcan
Chancellor's Professor at UCLA, USA
Professor at Howard Hughes Medical Institute, USA
Associate Director at California NanoSystems Institute, USA

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> Discover how Professor Aydogan Ozcan and his team's journey through the evolving landscape of computational optical biomedical imaging is revolutionizing global health diagnostics. He peels back the layers of how AI and deep learning are reshaping the future of medical imaging, and the profound impact of computational techniques in resource-limited settings.

In this episode, discussions are also had with moderator Peter Munro about the regulations and ethical considerations of AI, confronting the reality of health inequality and the promise of technology in bridging the gap. Each share the pivotal moments and mentorship experiences that inspired a continuous cycle of curiosity and innovation in their careers. The conversation will impart knowledge on our listeners but also ignite a spark for lifelong learning and discovery.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Glasgow, UK

Moderator:
Peter Munro
Professor and Vice Dean of Research
University College London, UK

Expert:
Aydogan Ozcan
Chancellor's Professor at UCLA, USA
Professor at Howard Hughes Medical Institute, USA
Associate Director at California NanoSystems Institute, USA

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> IEEE Photonics Society Buzzsprout-14496931 Wed, 13 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0400 4048 1 6 full false Growing STEM Talent Pools through the Lens of Photonics Growing STEM Talent Pools through the Lens of Photonics Get ready for this inspiring STEM Education chat with guest speaker, Mike McKee! He is the Associate Director of Undergraduate Programs in Photonic Science and Engineering at the University of Florida CREOL (The College of Optics and Photonics).  Mike delves into the heart of STEM education and the ways photonics can shape the future of scientific careers. Uncover why he passionately advocates for photonics within all engineering degree programs, and the crucial role early exposure plays in nurturing a diverse talent pool in the sector.

With the moderator, Sri Priya Sundararajan of Hewlett Packard, he addresses the disappointing lack of diversity in national-level science Olympiads and STEM spaces. Priya herself has led large scale MakeHer workshops and Introduce a Girl to Photonics programming. Together, they stand at the forefront of change, championing efforts to bolster diversity and inclusion at the local level. Hear from both on the power of being a visible minority and the struggles to confront bias and resistance in these spaces. Spoiler Alert: They do not just talk about the problem; they share solutions to create an inviting, inclusive environment for all participants!

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Glasgow, UK

Moderator:
Sri Priya Sundararajan
Senior Silicon Photonics Researcher
Hewlett Packard Enterprise, USA

Expert:
Mike Mckee
Associate Director, Undergraduate Programs
University of Florida CREOL, USA

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> Get ready for this inspiring STEM Education chat with guest speaker, Mike McKee! He is the Associate Director of Undergraduate Programs in Photonic Science and Engineering at the University of Florida CREOL (The College of Optics and Photonics).  Mike delves into the heart of STEM education and the ways photonics can shape the future of scientific careers. Uncover why he passionately advocates for photonics within all engineering degree programs, and the crucial role early exposure plays in nurturing a diverse talent pool in the sector.

With the moderator, Sri Priya Sundararajan of Hewlett Packard, he addresses the disappointing lack of diversity in national-level science Olympiads and STEM spaces. Priya herself has led large scale MakeHer workshops and Introduce a Girl to Photonics programming. Together, they stand at the forefront of change, championing efforts to bolster diversity and inclusion at the local level. Hear from both on the power of being a visible minority and the struggles to confront bias and resistance in these spaces. Spoiler Alert: They do not just talk about the problem; they share solutions to create an inviting, inclusive environment for all participants!

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Glasgow, UK

Moderator:
Sri Priya Sundararajan
Senior Silicon Photonics Researcher
Hewlett Packard Enterprise, USA

Expert:
Mike Mckee
Associate Director, Undergraduate Programs
University of Florida CREOL, USA

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> IEEE Photonics Society Buzzsprout-14065138 Wed, 24 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0500 3209 1 5 full false Navigating Future Pathways of LiDAR Technologies Navigating Future Pathways of LiDAR Technologies In this episode, Peter Dragic, of the University of Illinois, Urbana - Champaign, shares his expertise bridging a gap between next generation laser sources and active sensing systems such as LIDAR. We'll journey together through the captivating world of LiDAR, shedding light on its applications, complexities, and potential future paths.

Our exploration begins with a look at how this cutting-edge technology is being used in diverse fields such as automotive, surveying, mapping, and archaeology. You’ll gain insights into the challenges of crafting high-power lasers for LiDAR systems, and the pivotal role of laser alignment in ensuring accurate measurements, for example.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Glasgow, UK

Moderator:
Rajesh Menon
USTAR Professor
University of Utah

Expert:
Peter Dragic
Associate Professor
University of Illinois, Urbana - Champaign

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> In this episode, Peter Dragic, of the University of Illinois, Urbana - Champaign, shares his expertise bridging a gap between next generation laser sources and active sensing systems such as LIDAR. We'll journey together through the captivating world of LiDAR, shedding light on its applications, complexities, and potential future paths.

Our exploration begins with a look at how this cutting-edge technology is being used in diverse fields such as automotive, surveying, mapping, and archaeology. You’ll gain insights into the challenges of crafting high-power lasers for LiDAR systems, and the pivotal role of laser alignment in ensuring accurate measurements, for example.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Glasgow, UK

Moderator:
Rajesh Menon
USTAR Professor
University of Utah

Expert:
Peter Dragic
Associate Professor
University of Illinois, Urbana - Champaign

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> Peter Dragic Buzzsprout-13464093 Tue, 24 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0400 3398 1 4 full false Exploring Startup Culture in Photonics Exploring Startup Culture in Photonics In this episode, our guests discuss the realities of startup life. Ever found yourself pondering about the unwritten rules that shape a company's culture? If yes, then tune in for an enlightening episode with Daniel Renner, Chair of the IEEE Photonic Society Industry Engagement Committee, and Madison Woodson and Stephen Estrella, from Freedom Photonics.

Beyond the nuances of company culture, our guests also share the unique opportunities and benefits that one can only find in a startup environment. Hear firsthand about the broad spectrum of skills and expertise that you can explore and nurture while working at younger company or one founded to develop unique products and services. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows, our guests unravel the challenges and risks that come along with such ventures.

Host:
Daniel Renner
Principal
Atacama Optics & Electronics

Guest Speakers:
Madison Woodson
Photonic Device Engineer
Freedom Photonics, LLC

Stephen Estrella
Director of Business Development
Freedom Photonics, LLC

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> In this episode, our guests discuss the realities of startup life. Ever found yourself pondering about the unwritten rules that shape a company's culture? If yes, then tune in for an enlightening episode with Daniel Renner, Chair of the IEEE Photonic Society Industry Engagement Committee, and Madison Woodson and Stephen Estrella, from Freedom Photonics.

Beyond the nuances of company culture, our guests also share the unique opportunities and benefits that one can only find in a startup environment. Hear firsthand about the broad spectrum of skills and expertise that you can explore and nurture while working at younger company or one founded to develop unique products and services. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows, our guests unravel the challenges and risks that come along with such ventures.

Host:
Daniel Renner
Principal
Atacama Optics & Electronics

Guest Speakers:
Madison Woodson
Photonic Device Engineer
Freedom Photonics, LLC

Stephen Estrella
Director of Business Development
Freedom Photonics, LLC

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> IEEE Photonics Buzzsprout-13458443 Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:00:00 -0400 3611 1 3 full false Harnessing Quantum Sensing Technologies Harnessing Quantum Sensing Technologies In this episode, host and moderator discuss Quantum Sensing with Amr Helmy. The group looks into its applications and provides career advice on how to get into the quantum landscape.

Quantum technologies, generating, detecting and manipulating quantum states of light, have really changed over the past 10 years, with quantum startups contributing greatly to the rich field of photonics.

Host:
Senta (Scholl) Jantzen
Product Owner at ASML
North Brabant, Netherlands

Moderator:
Jacques Carolan
Senior Research Fellow, University College London
London, UK

Expert:
Amr Helmy
Professor at ECE, University of Toronto
Toronto, Canada

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> In this episode, host and moderator discuss Quantum Sensing with Amr Helmy. The group looks into its applications and provides career advice on how to get into the quantum landscape.

Quantum technologies, generating, detecting and manipulating quantum states of light, have really changed over the past 10 years, with quantum startups contributing greatly to the rich field of photonics.

Host:
Senta (Scholl) Jantzen
Product Owner at ASML
North Brabant, Netherlands

Moderator:
Jacques Carolan
Senior Research Fellow, University College London
London, UK

Expert:
Amr Helmy
Professor at ECE, University of Toronto
Toronto, Canada

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> Amr Helmy Buzzsprout-12714173 Sat, 24 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0400 2438 1 2 full false Nanophotonics Trapping Light for Device Applications Nanophotonics Trapping Light for Device Applications In this episode, Deep Jariwala shares his expertise on the field of Nanophotonics and how his applications range from telecommunications to medical imaging, sensing and quantum technologies. Research in this field is advancing rapidly, leading to new possibilities for the development of nanoscale optical components and devices, as well as the potential for new materials and processes to enable new applications.

Nanophotonics is an interdisciplinary field that combines nanotechnology with optics to study and control light on or at the nanoscale. Nanophotonics could be further classified into studying optical properties of nanometer scale materials and structures or designing and making structures that confine and manipulate photons in nanoscopic dimensions. It involves the use of nanostructured materials and components to manipulate the behavior of light, such as its intensity, polarization, wavelength, and direction.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Glasgow, UK

Moderator:
Lorenzo Pavesi
Head of Nanoscience Laboratory
University of Trento

Expert:
Deep Jariwala
Associate Professor
Peter & Susanne Armstrong Distinguished Scholar
University of Pennsylvania 

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> In this episode, Deep Jariwala shares his expertise on the field of Nanophotonics and how his applications range from telecommunications to medical imaging, sensing and quantum technologies. Research in this field is advancing rapidly, leading to new possibilities for the development of nanoscale optical components and devices, as well as the potential for new materials and processes to enable new applications.

Nanophotonics is an interdisciplinary field that combines nanotechnology with optics to study and control light on or at the nanoscale. Nanophotonics could be further classified into studying optical properties of nanometer scale materials and structures or designing and making structures that confine and manipulate photons in nanoscopic dimensions. It involves the use of nanostructured materials and components to manipulate the behavior of light, such as its intensity, polarization, wavelength, and direction.

Host:
Akhil Kallepalli
Leverhulme Early Career Fellow
University of Glasgow, UK

Moderator:
Lorenzo Pavesi
Head of Nanoscience Laboratory
University of Trento

Expert:
Deep Jariwala
Associate Professor
Peter & Susanne Armstrong Distinguished Scholar
University of Pennsylvania 

Have a topic you're interested in hearing about? Let us know!

]]> Deep Jariwala Buzzsprout-12713520 Wed, 24 May 2023 13:00:00 -0400 3496 1 1 full false