ANZOS - Australia and New Zealand Optical Society News

Professor Sascha Schediwy — 2025 ANZOS John Love Award

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 22:54:02 GMT

Prof. Sascha W. Schediwy recieves the 2025 John Love Award in recognition of his technical and innovative contributions to the field of laser communications, particularly his advancements in terrestrial and space laser link capabilities and their successful translation into industry.

Professor Ann Roberts — 2025 W.H. (Beattie) Steel Medal

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Professor Ann Roberts has been awarded the 2025 W.H. Beattie Steel medal, the most prestigious award of the Australian and New Zealand Optical Society. This medal recognizes outstanding career contribution to the field of optics in Australia and New Zealand. The award particularly recognizes a sustained record of leadership, service, and innovation in the Optics field.

Ann is a highly published and internationally recognized researcher with world leading contributions to subwavelength optics, plasmonics, and imaging. Ann has supervised to completion over 20 PhD students, been proactive in promoting indigenous/ equity/ inclusion/ equal opportunity programs, and highly active in undergraduate teaching and course coordination. Ann has also been a past AOS President, and past state branch Chair of the AIP (plus numerous Professional and international conference committees). Ann’s career has advanced science, technology and contributed to industry in our region creating a lasting legacy for our community.

You can read more about the award here.

Dr Jiawen Li — 2025 ANZOS/SPIE Jim Piper Entrepreneurial Researcher Prize

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:55:00 GMT

The 2025 ANZOS Jim Piper ECR/ MCR Entrepreneurial Researcher Prize, which recognises an outstanding early career researcher for an early-stage entrepreneurial activity/ start-up in the field of optics, lasers, or photonics, has been awarded to Assoc Prof Jiawen Li from Adelaide University for her work on 3D-printed intravascular imaging devices. Her project holds great hope in improving the diagnosis of high-risk cardiovascular disease (CVD), which accounts for >7 million deaths each year worldwide. In 2024 through the support of the University of Adelaide, Li founded a spun-out company to commercialise the hybrid 3D-printed intravascular imaging device. Jiawen’s work aligns extremely well with the overall intent of the award. It is university research that is being transitioned to a commercial product in a field that will make a difference.

Dr Danuta Sampson — 2025 ANZOS Mid-Career Prize

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:50:00 GMT

Dr Danuta Sampson has been awarded the 2025 ANZOS Mid-Career Prize for Excellence in Optics and Photonics in recognition of her outstanding academic achievements, leadership, and service to the Australian and New Zealand optics community. An internationally acclaimed physicist, she has advanced the field of biomedical optics and vision science, developing innovative imaging protocols that are transforming the diagnosis and monitoring of retinal diseases. Beyond her pioneering research, Danuta is a passionate science communicator who has authored children’s books and delivered outreach programs that have inspired thousands of students, while championing diversity and inclusion in STEM. Through her leadership, mentoring, and advocacy, Dr Sampson has demonstrated the highest standards of scientific excellence and community engagement.

Gabriel Britto Monteiro — 2025 Postgraduate Prize Winner

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:45:00 GMT

Gabriel Britto Monteiro receives the 2025 ANZOS Postgraduate Student Prize for his outstanding work on speckle spectroscopy. Gabriel is an engaged member of the photonics community and served as the Adelaide Optics Chapter president where he championed many outreach events.

Dr Linan Jia — 2025 ANZOS Geoff Opat Early Career Researcher Prize

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:35:00 GMT

Dr. Jia is a postdoctoral research fellow at RMIT whose pioneering work in hybrid integrated photonics and laser nanofabrication has led to 14 impactful publications. He is also a committed contributor to the Australian photonics community through conference leadership, mentoring, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Winter Workshop on Quantum Acoustics and Optomechanics — Macquarie University, July 24-25 2025

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Dear colleagues,

We are delighted to invite you to the Winter Workshop on Quantum Acoustics and Optomechanics, to be held at Macquarie University's beautiful Wallumattagal campus in North Ryde on July 24–25, 2025.

The workshop will bring together researchers from across Australia, working on quantum acoustics, optomechanics, levitated and hybrid quantum systems. Our aim is to explore the emerging platforms in which the mechanical modes of atoms, molecules, nano- and micro-systems exhibit nonclassical behaviour, and offer to push the limits of sensing, information processing and communication past the classical limits.

It will feature a series of invited and contributed talks, with ample time for discussion and informal interaction. A dinner will be arranged for the first night (at participant's expense).

We hope you will register for the event, and ask you to forward this invitation to colleagues, particularly junior researchers in your group, to apply for short contributed talks (15 mins). To express interest, simply email us with a title and a short abstract for your presentation by the COB on July 7th.

The workshop will be a great opportunity for early-career researchers and HDR students to present their work and connect with this growing dynamic community.

We warmly encourage submissions from early and mid-career researchers of all genders, backgrounds and identities.

The registration form allows participants to indicate dietary and any accessibility requirements. We also have capacity to provide some support for childcare/carer costs where to assist registrants in participating fully in the program such as attending the dinner. Please contact the organisers for further details.

The standard ANZOS code of conduct applies to this event.

The preliminary agenda and a growing list of invited speakers is published on the events page.

We look forward to your participation in what promises to be a stimulating and collaborative event!

The workshop is being conducted on the traditional lands of the people of the Wallumattagal clan of the Dharug nation. We pay respect to their elders, past and present, and extend respect to First Nations people participating in the workshop.

Mikolaj K. Schmidt and Michael J. Steel

ANZOS Support for International Day of Light Student Events – Closed

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:52:51 GMT

The UNESCO international day of light is celebrated on the 16^th May each year and is a great chance to showcase the many wonderful aspects of light with our wider communities. Students involved in past events have enjoyed sharing their passion for light with the wider public.

Australian New Zealand Optical Society (ANZOS) would like to provide financial support to student chapters to enable them to run an event near the 16^th May 2025. Different event formats are welcomed, examples of past events include interactive hands-on experiments and public lectures. In general, an event date within the month of May is preferred with events close to or on the 16^th of May strongly encouraged.

Support available: $200 of support per student chapter, or $500 for a combined two-chapter event.

Submission process: Complete the below ½ page form and submit to ANZOS (ausoptsoc@gmail.com) by the 18^th April 2025. The outcome will be announced shortly after.

After the event the successful chapters will be required to provide a short article (250 words) including at least one photo from the event for ANZOS news.

Download the ANZOS IDL Event Support Application.

ANZOS Support for International Year of Quantum Student Events – Now Open

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 04:40:17 GMT

UPDATE: A second round of applications is now open.

"The mission of the International Year of Quantum Science & Technology (IYQ) is to use the occasion of 100 years of quantum mechanics in 2025 to help raise public awareness of the importance and impact of quantum science and applications on all aspects of life."

— International Year of Quantum Science and Technology [1]

The UNESCO International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) is celebrated in 2025 and is a great chance to showcase the many wonderful aspects of photons and quantum physics with our wider communities. Students involved in past ANZOS public events have enjoyed sharing their passion for photonics with the wider public.

In preparation for next year, ANZOS would like to provide financial support to student chapters to enable them to run public IYQ events in 2025. Different event formats are welcomed, examples of past events include interactive hands-on experiments and public lectures. If you are interested fill out the short ANZOS Event Support Application. More information can be found on the application and will close 31 March 2025

Download the ANZOS IYQ Event Support Application.

[1] 2024 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology Partners, "Let’s work together to celebrate 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology", About, accessed 20 October 2024, https://quantum2025.org/en/about/.

Professor Martijn de Sterke — 2024 W.H. (Beattie) Steel Medal

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 11:19:10 GMT

For over 30 years, Martijn has been a key figure in research, education and service within the Australian, Australasian and global optics communities. A theorist in nonlinear optics, he has made key contributions in soliton physics, nonlinear Bragg grating, gap solitons, high energy laser pulses, photonic crystals and metamaterials, scattering theory, and novel aspects of nonlinear propagation in optical fibres, and numerous other areas. For a pure theorist, his commitment to constant collaboration with experimentalists is notable and a key part of his research success.

Martijn is a gifted classroom teacher in optics, photonics and all areas of general physics and has lectured at times in the developing world. His contributions to optics education were acknowledged with multiple awards.

His service to the Australian and global optics communities is equally impressive. He has hold many leadership positions at OPTICA, on the ARC College of Experts, and within the University of Sydney, CUDOS and COMBS.

More details on the award can be found here.

Dr Erik Shartner — 2024 ANZOS/SPIE Jim Piper Entrepreneurial Researcher Prize

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 09:15:00 GMT

Dr Erik Shartnerr is a physicist bridging academia with entrepreneurial activities. He has a strong focus on finding real-world applications of optical sensors, and undertaking commercialisation activities. This includes a range of industry-focused research projects, and direct efforts to translate photonics technologies via his start-up HT Sensing, and also collaborations with Flawless Photonics and Loughan Technology Group

Commercial activities:

Demonstrating laser direct-write FBG temperature sensors by integrating them into the Nyrstar Port Pirie smelter.
“Novel Fluorescence”: Utilising fluorescence to uniquely identify chemicals and minerals with the goal of taking a product to market within the next two years

More details on the award can be found here.

Dr Jiawen Li — 2024 ANZOS Mid-Career Prize

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 09:10:00 GMT

The ANZOS Mid-Career Prize is awarded to Dr Jiawen Li for her outstanding contributions to the field of imaging and sensing. Her highly collaborative and multidisciplinary approach led to the development of the world’s smallest optical micro-endoscope.

Dr Li is passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists and is engaged in outreach activities reaching >1000 children and many high-school visits. She served as the co-chair of significant international conferences (CLEO-PR, ANZCOP) and is an engaged member of the optics and photonics community.

Dr Rocio Camacho Morales — ANZOS Geoff Opat Early Career Researcher Prize

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 09:05:00 GMT

ANZOS Geoff Opat Early Career Researcher Prize is awarded to Dr Rocio Camacho Morales’ (Australian National University) for her research which focuses on nonlinear optical metasurfaces and their application for conversion enhancement and imaging capabilities. Rocio mentored several PhD and honours students, actively supports optical societies (SPIE, OPTICA and ANZOS) and participates regularly in outreach activities. Rocio’s leadership extends beyond academia, and she leads several industrial research projects that aim to translate optical metasurfaces into practical devices. Her work on infrared to visible light conversion by resonant semiconductor metasurfaces has yielded two international patents.

Shaban Sulejman — 2024 Postgraduate Prize Winner

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Shaban Sulejman is awarded the ANZOS Postgraduate Research Prize for his outstanding research focused on designing optical metasurfaces for imaging applications such as phase imaging of transparent biological samples and multi-modal microscopy.

2024 AGM Election Candidate Statements

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 22:25:26 GMT

We are excited to have strong candidates in this year's election. You can read their statements below.

The Vice President candidates are as follows:

Moritz Merklin, The University of Sydney

Dr Moritz Merklein is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Sydney and a team leader within the Jericho Smart Sensing Lab. Dr Merklein received his Ph.D. from the University of Sydney in 2018. His research was recognised with several awards, including the Rita and John Cornforth Graduate Medal 2019, the Royal Society of NSW Jak Kelly Award 2017, the Australian Institute of Physics NSW Medal for Postgraduate Excellence 2017, and the 2020 Eureka Prize. He is an engaged member of the photonics community serving as the secretary of ANZOS and the vice-president of the Optica Sydney local section.

The Councillor candidates are as follows:

Alex Fuerbach, Macquarie University

I am Professor and Associate Dean Research Training and Performance for the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Macquarie University in Sydney. I have been an active member of the Council for the last four years during which I have contributed to various strategies aimed at increasing ANZOS' membership base and strengthening our partnership with Optica and SPIE. In 2022, I became Treasurer for the society and, if elected, my intention is to continue in this role and to prepare for a transition to a new treasurer at the end of 2026.

Alvaro Casas Bedoya, The University of Sydney

I am the Associate Director of the Integrated Photonics Sensing Group at the University of Sydney. My expertise focuses on the design, fabrication, and characterisation of integrated photonic devices for sensing, microwave signal processing, and photon-phonon interactions. I hold a PhD in Physics (2013) from the University of Sydney, funded by the USydIS scholarship, and a double MSc in Photonics (Distinction) through the Erasmus Mundus program (2008-2009). I provide leadership in semiconductor design and nanofabrication supporting Australia's growing semiconductor industry. I am the advisor for the OPTICA and SPIE Student Chapter and the Sydney OPTICA Local Section, where I also had the pleasure of serving as their president.

Bill Corcoran, Monash University

A/Prof. Bill Corcoran studies the use of photonics in optical communication systems, to help solve issues with energy efficiency and data-carrying capacity of optical fibre networks – the backbone of the internet. Bill obtained his PhD in Physics in 2011, before joining Chalmers University of Technology for a postdoctoral position. In 2013, he joined Monash University as a postdoc, became ongoing staff in 2025, and became A/Prof. in 2024. Bill is currently an ARC Future Fellow and a CI on the ARC Centre for Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science (COMBS).

Danka Sampson, University of Western Australia

Dr Sampson is a translational researcher with international training who holds joint appointments at the Lions Eye Institute and the University of Western Australia. Her research focuses on developing non-invasive, optics-based imaging instruments and standardised ophthalmic image and data analysis workflows. In addition to her academic work, she is committed to science communication and promoting inclusivity, having designed and delivered over 30 STEM outreach programmes. Dr Sampson is actively involved in the global optics and photonics community, contributing to Optica and SPIE, and has co-edited the ANZOS Newsletter since 2024. She also supports various committees within these organisations.

Haoran Ren, Monash University

Dr Haoran Ren, a DECRA Fellow, leads the Structured Nanophotonics Group at Monash University. He is an Associate Investigator at the ARC Centre of Excellence TMOS. Dr Ren has received several prestigious awards, including the 2024 SPIE Best Paper Award, the 2023 Rising Stars of Light, the 2022 ANZOS Geoff Opat Early Career Researcher Prize, and the 2017 Victoria Fellowship. He actively serves the photonics community as the Chair of the OPTICA Photonic Metamaterials Technical Group and has held roles as Secretary of the OPTICA Sydney Local Section and Event Officer of the OSA Technical Group. He is also an editor for ANZOS News.

Igor Aharonovich, University of of Technology Sydney

Igor Aharonovich is a Professor in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences at UTS, and a chief investigator at the ARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Materials (TMOS). In 2016, Igor and his team discovered the first quantum emitters in 2D materials that operate at room temperature based on defects in hBN.

He has co-authored more than 300 peer-reviewed publications, including one of the most cited reviews on diamond photonics.

Igor has received several international awards including the Pawsey Medal (2017), the IEEE Photonics Young Investigator Award (2016). In 2021, he became a Fellow of the Optical Society (OSA), and in 2024 elected as a fellow of SPIE.

Irina Kabakova, University of Technology Sydney

Irina Kabakova is an Associate Professor at the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, the University of Technology Sydney. She has established the first Brillouin Imaging Lab in Australia and pioneered micromechanical spectroscopic imaging for solid state and soft matter materials. Currently she is a Chief Investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology and Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science. She has served on ANZOS Council between 2019-2022 and chaired ANZCOP 2022 Conference. She has been a long-standing member of ANZOS since 2008.

Joel Carpenter, University of Queensland

Joel Carpenter is an Australian Research Council Future Fellow at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia. He received his PhD in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cambridge, UK in 2012 for his work on Mode Division Multiplexing in optical telecommunications before working as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Sydney, Australia. In 2015, Joel returned to his hometown of Brisbane to take up faculty position at the University of Queensland, where he founded the ‘modegroup’ at UQ which focuses on research related to the measurement and manipulation of light’s spatiotemporal properties.

Sergio Leon-Saval, University of Sydney

Prof Sergio Leon-Saval is the Director of the Sydney Astrophotonics Instrumentation Laboratory (SAIL), and Director of the Institute of Photonics and Optical Science (IPOS) at the School of Physics in the University of Sydney. He was the 2019 recipient of the AOS John Love Award, and elected to Optica Fellow for the new class of 2023. Prof Leon-Saval is keen to explore a third and last term as councillor and be able to contribute to the society with a now much better understanding of the needs and procedures and looking forward to exploring the possibilities as a Councillor of the society in his third term, with particular emphasis on solidifying the efforts on the revival of the ANZOS Newsletter.

Photonics and Quantum Technology Report: Australasia missing a trick on core technologies

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 02:00:00 GMT

New Zealand and Australia are failing to convert research prowess in photonics and quantum technologies into commercial reality, with a new report finding below average growth in the sector at the heart of our future technologies.

The Australian and New Zealand Optical Society (ANZOS) with support from SPIE, (the international society for optics and photonics), has just released an updated analysis of the AU/NZ photonics industry. It demonstrates a high degree of risk for both countries.

At the end of last year, our photonics and quantum technologies industry had a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8% compared to a global average of 7.3% over the last decade, behind Asia, the UK and North America. Although the industry has grown to AU$6bn and now employs more than 34,000 people across Australasia, it is behind competitors.

ANZOS President and Director of New Zealand’s Te Whai Ao— Dodd Walls Centre, Frederique Vanholsbeeck, says the report is both disturbing and timely, coming as the New Zealand and Australian governments are examining the state of their universities and the science sector.

“The global value of photonics enabled products is projected to have exceeded US$2.39 trillion last year, so the opportunity is massive. We need New Zealand business, government and academia to collaborate in developing a strategy to leverage our photonics and quantum research excellence,” says the University of Auckland Professor.

Called a “critical” technology in the Australian Government’s National Quantum Strategy, the Federal Government has spent billions in recent years on new centres of quantum research excellence, as well as making a direct “anchor” investment in quantum computing company, PsiQuantum this April.

In addition to computing; the technologies span lasers, precision timing, measurement, navigation and secure communications. They’re used for MRI scans, managing the vulnerabilities of GPS, self-driving cars, measuring the ozone layer, underground sensing and a myriad of work in space. Some of the most powerful quantum applications are expected to come on stream in the next decade.

ANZOS Vice-President, and EOS Chair in Laser Physics at the University of South Australia, David Lancaster says the findings are a wake-up call for Australia.

“It’s imperative that we capitalise on the considerable investment in photonic and quantum technologies made here in the last few years. Australia must demonstrate it can monetise that and keep pace with the rest of the world.”

With commentary on the key issues facing the photonics and quantum technologies industry (skills, infrastructure, tech transfer and commercialisation) the report includes contributions from Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr. Cathy Foley, as well as wide ranging perspectives from the venture capital market through to researchers, policymakers and businesses in both countries.

SPIE Senior Director, Global Business Development, Dr. Andrew Brown, says the light enabled and quantum industry is at the core of modern technology and will remain so for the foreseeable future.

“Australasia needs a functioning, healthy innovation ecosystem in place for the industry to grow and reach its full potential,” says Dr. Brown.

ANZOS Media Contact:
Anna Verboeket
Dodd Walls Communication Manager. 64-21-720-750

Jim Piper Entrepreneurial Researcher Prize Announced

Fri, 10 May 2024 01:20:09 GMT

ANZOS and SPIE are honoured to announce the inaugural Jim Piper ECR/ MCR Entrepreneurial Researcher Prize which recognises an outstanding early career researcher for an early-stage entrepreneurial activity/ start-up in the field of optics, lasers, or photonics. The prize is named in honour of Professor Jim Piper, a distinguished and entrepreneurial laser physics researcher, and sponsored by SPIE.

Jim was very active in the Australian optics community, serving on the founding committee of the Australian Optical Society (now ANZOS), its President in 1984-1985, appointed a lifelong member of ANZOS in 2016, and was an OSA (now Optica) Fellow. He brought the International Quantum Electronics Conference to Australia for the first time in 1996. As President of Science and Technology Australia (2015-2017) he restructured the organisation’s membership to be more inclusive.

Jim was the Director of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Special Research Centre for Lasers and Applications (1988-1996) and subsequently Chief Investigator for two ARC Centres of Excellence (Centre for Ultra-high-bandwidth Devices for Optical Systems and Centre for Nanoscale Bio-Photonics). A world-class researcher, Jim authored over 400 journal articles and hundreds of conference papers, and his research continued to flourish during his retirement.

Jim’s passion for research contributed to building the ARC policy for funding of large-scale research infrastructure and industry collaborations. He was involved in several laser start-ups, and an inventor on more than 20 patents. His award in 2006 of a Carnegie Lectureship and an honorary D.Sc. from Heriot-Watt University in Scotland also recognised his research excellence in lasers and laser applications.

Jim mentored over 50 PhD students, many of whom established highly successful careers in research, industry, and education. In his later career Jim was Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research at Macquarie University (2003- 2013).

We will be taking applications for this prize alongside the 2024 ANZOS Awards, which are currently open. More details on the Jim Piper ECR/ MCR Entrepreneurial Researcher prize are included below and available on the prize page of our website.

IDL 2024 next month!

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 03:22:29 GMT

With the 16th May fast approaching, the International Day of Light is now less than a month away.

While there are many international events registered on the IDL website we wondered what regional events our members may have organised in Australia and New Zealand. Let us know how you plan to celebrate by filling in this short form so we can advertise your event to the wider ANZOS membership

If you are involved with a student chapter, there is still time to submit an application form for financial support to help organise and host an event.

ANZOS is a Constituent Organisation with Royal Society Te Apārangi.

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 03:15:00 GMT

We are pleased to announce that ANZOS is now a Constituent Organisation with the Royal Society Te Apārangi of New Zealand Aotearoa.

For many years ANZOS has been a constituent organisation of Science and Technology Australia, allowing us, as a society, to advocating for science to the Australian government and represent the voice of the optics and photonics community in Australia and New Zealand. During 2023 this advocacy included participating in Science Meets Parliament, and submissions to Australia's draft 'Science and Research Priorities' and the proposed Defence Trade Control Amendment Bill. Now that we have joined the Royal Society Te Apārangi we can similarly advocate for science and photonics in Aotearoa New Zealand.

We encourage members to assist us and get involved with ANZOS in these submissions — let us know if there is any science policy development or other matter you believe ANZOS should provide feedback on to the New Zealand Government.

Professor Cather Simpson — 2023 W.H. (Beattie) Steel Medal Winner

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:20:00 GMT

Congratulations to Professor Cather Simpson!

Professor Simpson (University of Auckland) has made many groundbreaking discoveries in the field of ultrafast physics and chemistry and biomedical diagnostics which have impacted on important areas of both fundamental and applied science. Her career has always been strongly interdisciplinary, and over many years Professor Simpson has played a major role in developing and stimulating the New Zealand optics community to transfer results from basic research into applied technology. Professor Simpson is an amazing mentor as testified by the successes of her colleagues and students.

Her research has had high impact worldwide from both the fundamental science and engineering communities, she has a remarkable patent portfolio, and she is frequently invited to present her work at major science and industry events. Cather has combined her achievements in basic research with extremely effective entrepreneurship and technology transfer, and a real commitment to apply her work for societal benefit. Professor Simpson, as well as her companies have received a very large number of national and international recognitions and distinctions demonstrating the evidence of both the national and international impact of her research. service, and innovation in the field of optics in Australia and New Zealand.

Dr Chris Perrella — 2023 Mid-Career Prize Winner

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:15:00 GMT

Congratulations to Dr Chris Perrella!

Dr Chris Perrella's (University of Adelaide) research focuses on finding fundamental optics solutions to solve real-world challenges. Two key projects he has led that exemplify his commitment to real-world impact are the Rubidium Two-Photon Optical Clock, which out-performs the best commercially available clocks of similar size, weight, and power, and high-performance quantum magnetometers. He mentored several Ph.D. students and early-career researchers, is champion for inclusion and diversity, and organised multiple public outreach events. Chris raised more than $5M in research funding and was awarded the 2023 South Australian Tall Poppy Award.

Dr Sarah Scholten — 2023 Geoff Opat Early Career Researcher Prize Winner

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:10:00 GMT

Congratulations to Dr Sarah Scholten!

Dr Sarah Scholten (University of Adelaide) has led the BreathELISA project, Breath analysis for detection of disease, and developed a dual-colour two-photon Rb clock. She successfully transitioned both research streams into real-world applications: the terrestrial Rb clock she built operated successfully and autonomously aboard a NZ ship during the RIMPAC 2022 naval exercise in Hawaii, and a satellite compatible Rb clock is currently being ruggedised with the commercialisation partner. BreathELISA will begin clinical trials this year and has already generated media attention including news articles (IFLS, New Scientist, Science Daily), radio & TV interviews and invited talks at the MASCC, AIP, and ATMOP conferences, along with a 3-week invited research exchange to UWA, and a research exchange invite at NIST.

Raymond Harrison — 2023 Postgraduate Student Prize Winner

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:05:00 GMT

Congratulations to Raymond Harrison!

The ANZOS Postgraduate Student Prize was awarded to Raymond Harrison (University of Queensland) for his outstanding contribution in addressing a limitation of light-matter interaction in the realm of cavity optomechanics.  This contribution allowed him to increase the effective applied force by up to eight orders of magnitude and enabling a mechanical lasing threshold three orders of magnitude lower than previously reported in the literature.

The Rubidium Clock Team — 2023 John Love Award Winner

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to The Rubidium Clock Team!

The ANZOS John Love Award was awarded to the Rubidium Clock team (University of Adelaide) for the advancement of photonics within a University environment with the subsequent commencement of a company to develop and promulgate the technology.  This  risk-taking pathway employs Australians (and New Zealanders), keeps researchers contributing to our national accounts and fits with the high technology manufacturing push mandatory for the development of our economy.

Panel discussion the draft Australian ‘Science and Research priorities’ with ANZOS Vice President

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT

A panel discussion was held on the Tuesday night during ANZCOP/AIP at the Australian Academy of Sciences Shine Dome on the draft Australian ‘Science and Research priorities’. ANZOS Vice President Prof. David Lancaster (pictured on the left) was part of the discussion, that also included Prof. Nicole Bell (President of the AIP), and Professor Ian Chubb (former Australian Chief Scientist).

The panel discussion covered a number of apparent short-comings of the current Science and Research priorities policy document that included a focus on high-level aspirational priorities (eg. net zero future; healthy communities; productive and innovative economy; a strong/ resilient nation) without apparent support or acknowledgement of Australia’s history and strong track record in fundamental sciences which forms the deep foundation to Australia’s research capabilities. The panel also discussed the apparent lack of alignment with other government policies such as defence and sovereign manufacturing capability.

Providing feedback to the Australian Government in areas such as science policy development is an important function of ANZOS and allows members voices to be heard. We encourage members to assist us and get involved with ANZOS in these submissions.

Congratulations to Prof. Peter Hannaford AC

Michael Steel — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 22:27:42 GMT

ANZOS is delighted to congratulate our member and 2021 W.H. (Beattie) Steel Award winner, Professor Emeritus Peter Hannaford, on being named as a Companion in the Order of Australia (AC) in the most recent round of awards announced on 26 January 2023.

Peter was cited "for eminent service to science, particularly to experimental physics, as an academic and researcher, to professional institutions, and as a role model for young scientists".

The AC is the highest rank of civilian award in the Order of Australia system and only six were awarded in this round, so this is truly outstanding mark of achievement.

Here is Peter receiving the Society's highest honour, the W. H. (Beattie) Steel medal in early 2022 from former ANZOS Councillor and Treasurer Prof. Arnan Mitchell.

Position available - ANZOS Administrative Officer

Michael Steel — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 23:04:20 GMT

ANZOS is currently seeking to appoint a part time administration officer to play a significant role in the Society's effort to expand services to members and grow the membership. The initial appointment will be for fixed term for one year at 9 hours per week.

The role will involve a range of online administrative duties including communicating and supporting members, engaging with external stakeholders, supporting preparation of the Society newsletter, maintaining and improving the Society web site, and developing strategies to grow membership. The successful candidate will report to and work closely with the Society's leadership team.

The role will be performed largely remotely and application is open to all qualified persons in either Australia or New Zealand.

Selection of the role will be made in accordance with the Society’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion policy (www.optics.org.au/Equity). We strongly encourage applications from persons identifying with one or more groups that have historically experienced discrimination and under-representation in STEM fields.

Full details, selection criteria and instructions on how to apply are provided in this document.

Applications close on 15 January 2023.

Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop recipient of the 2022 Moyal Medal

Alexander Fuerbach — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 23:24:12 GMT

ANZOS congratulates Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop on receiving the 2022 Moyal Medal. The Moyal Medal is awarded annually by Macquarie University for research contributions to mathematics, physics or statistics – the areas of research of the late Professor José Enrique Moyal.

Prof. Rubinsztein-Dunlop was awarded the medal for her groundbreaking work in the fields of sculpted light, micromanipulation and nano-optics where she has been on the forefront of International research for many years.

Prof Yuri Kivshar - 2022 Max Born Award Recipient

Michael Steel — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 07:12:02 GMT

ANZOS congratulates long time member and Beattie Steel winner Prof. Yuri Kivshar of the Australian National University for his receipt of the Optica Max Born Award. The citation notes Yuri's "pioneering and ground-breaking research in nonlinear metamaterials and all-dielectric resonant metaphotonics that derives unique optical functionalities from electric and magnetic dipolar and multipolar Mie-type resonances underpinning new discoveries in nonlinear and topological nanophotonics".

Established in 1982, the Born Award recognizes outstanding contributions to physical optics, theoretical or experimental. It honors Max Born, who made distinguished contributions to physics in general and optics in particular.

European Conference on Optical Communication (ECOC) 2022

Michael Steel — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 07:02:36 GMT

European Conference on Optical Communication (ECOC) 2022
CLEO/Europe Focus Meeting (co-located)

Website: ecoc.info

Dates: 18 – 22 September 2022
Location: Congress Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland

Submission Site Open

Abstract and Summary Submission Deadline: 10 May 2022, 18:00 (CEST, UTC+2:00)
Author Notifications: 23 June 2022
Advance Registration Deadline: 01 August 2022
Author instructions: https://ecoc.info/author-info/author-instructions

About the Conference

The European Conference on Optical Communication (ECOC) is the continent’s largest event in the field and one of the most prestigious and traditional events on optical communications worldwide.

Major Topic Categories

· Novel Fibres, Fibre Devices & Amplifiers
· Photonic Devices & Technologies
· Photonic Integrated Circuits, Assemblies & Packaging
· Techniques for Digitally Enhancing Optical Communication
· Theory of Optical Communications
· Optical Transmission Systems
· Core & Metro Networks
· Access, Indoor & Short-Reach for Data Centres and Mobile Networks
· Photonics for RF & Free-Space Optics Applications
· Architecture, Control & Management of Optical Networks
· CLEO®/Europe Focus Meeting (co-located)
• Quantum Photonics
• Novel Photonic Materials & Effects
• Emerging Photonic Devices, Technologies & Applications

Science and Technology Australia Member Update - March 2022

Michael Steel — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 06:53:08 GMT

This week, STA President Mark Hutchinson and I gave evidence to the Senate hearing on the Australian Research Council Amendment (Ensuring Research Independence Bill). Our full submission is here.

On your behalf, we made a strong case that there is no need for a Ministerial power to approve individual research grants for funding because Australia has a rigorous and robust system of expert peer review and national science and research priorities set by the Government.

There always needs to be accountability for public spending – that’s an important principle.

But the best way to achieve that doesn’t require Ministerial involvement in approving hundreds and hundreds of individual grants in specialised fields of knowledge outside of their expertise.

Indeed, the Westminster traditions on which Australia’s democracy was modelled enshrine the Haldane principle of research independence. In the UK, Governments and Ministers set the overarching strategic research priorities, but individual grants are decided by expert peer review.

The Australian Research Council has rigorous and robust grant assessment procedures guided by the top experts in each field. Given this, there is no need for a Ministerial power of approval.

We also reiterated our call for fixed dates for ARC grant applications, approvals, and recipient notifications to be set and published three years ahead. This is key to bring certainty to both industry and researchers.

Views were strongly aligned across the sector, including the Australian Institute of Physics, the learned academies and university peak bodies and vice-chancellors.

This year’s Science meets Parliament was a triumph - our biggest and most successful event ever. Our huge thanks to everyone who supported it as a delegate, speaker, or sponsor. A record-breaking 528 delegates had an incredible week of professional development, networking, and skills building.

Some of the many highlights in 2022 included:

A fireside chat with Nobel Laureate Professor Peter Doherty on the power of science in our era;
Global media stars Professor Brian Cox and Wiradjuri astrophysicist Kirsten Banks in conversation on the importance of clear science communication to tackle misinformation and disinformation; and
STA President Professor Mark Hutchinson outlining a vision for how Australia can take more of our great science and technology breakthroughs from the lab “bench to boardroom”.

This week, Science meets Parliament delegates met with MPs and Senators to discuss their science. This included an inspiring meeting with Science and Technology Minister Melissa Price MP.

Huge thanks to the whole team at STA who brought together the 22nd Science meets Parliament with such skill, talent and a prodigious amount of work. Here’s a tiny glimpse from behind the scenes.

And it’s not over yet! On 2 June, we’ll bring together STEM leaders and policymakers for in-person dinners in all eight capital cities across Australia hosted by our MC, ABC star Nate Byrne – tickets are open to the whole STEM community.

If you haven’t yet done the SmP2022 delegate survey, please do so. This feedback ensures Science meets Parliament will continue to be a great success connecting the science and technology community with decision-makers.

Finally, the 2022 Federal Budget will be handed down on Tuesday 29 March. Please join us for our STA members-only post-Budget briefing on Thursday 31 March at 2pm AEDT. Register here.

Until next time,

Misha Schubert
CEO, Science & Technology Australia

STA MEMBER ONLY EVENT | POST-BUDGET BRIEFING

The 2022 Federal Budget will be handed down on Tuesday 29 March. On Thursday 31 March, we will hold an exclusive STA members-only post-Budget briefing. This session will cover STEM-related announcements in the Budget, share additional information on how proposed measures may affect the STEM sector, and next steps for engagement or consultation on any Budget announcements.
2pm AEDT | 1.30pm ACDT | 1pm AEST | 12.30pm ACST | 11am AWST
Each member organisation can send up to two representatives. Registration is essential.

ICO-25 Call for Papers

Michael Steel — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 06:50:21 GMT

The World General Congress for Optics and Photonics of the International Commission for Optics (ICO) and the international society on Optics Within Life Sciences (OWLS) will be celebrated from 5th September to 9th September 2022 in Dresden, Germany.

See this info sheet for details.

Abstract submission at the website seems to be still open.

Australian Academy of Science Position Statement 2022

Michael Steel — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 06:43:28 GMT

The Australian Academy of Science has published a position statement in relation to the current Federal Election in Australia.

Click here to access the document.

ANZOS expresses deep concern about ARC eligibility rulings in ECR/MCR grants

Michael Steel — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 23:06:58 GMT

ANZOS wishes to express its deep alarm at the Australian Research Council's decision to rule numerous DECRA and Future Fellowship grants in the recent grant cycle ineligible on the basis of citation of preprints and arxiv papers by authors other than the applicant.

Citation of relevant arxiv works is ubiquitous practice in optics and physics and is an essential part of accurately reflecting the state of the art in a professional manner in many sub-fields of our discipline. Grant applicants are placed in an impossible position by this policy which prohibits them from appropriately acknowledging prior literature and thereby risks criticism from reviewers for misrepresenting the background to a proposal.

ANZOS urges the ARC to reevaluate this policy and its impact on applicants as a highest priority. We are in consultation with partner stakeholder organisations regarding formal communications with the ARC.

Announcement of 2020 ANZOS Award Winners

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 02:15:00 GMT

The ANZOS is pleased to announce the recipients of 2020 ANZOS Awards, as summarised in

https://optics.org.au/2020prizes

Our warmest congratulations to the new awardees!

Further update on AIP Congress 2020 & COVID19

Stephen Collins — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 22:35:47 GMT

This Congress has been postponed to December 2022

AOS Awards 2020 - closing date is 31 May

Stephen Collins — Tue, 05 May 2020 04:56:15 GMT

The closing date for the awards of the Australian Optical Society is 31 May 2020, i.e.

AOS W.H. (Beattie) Steel Medal
Geoff Opat Early Career Researcher Prize
AOS Postgraduate Student Prize
AOS John Love Award
AOS Warsash Science Communication Prize

Update on AIP Congress 2020 & COVID19

Stephen Collins — Tue, 05 May 2020 04:51:16 GMT

It has been announced that the next AIP Congress will now be held December 5-10, 2021 in Adelaide, ie. postponed for 12 months.

Update on CLEO Pac Rim & COVID19

Stephen Collins — Sun, 03 May 2020 02:17:45 GMT

CLEO-PR 2020 will run as an online Conference on the original dates 3-5 August, 2020; please refer to the website for further information

CLEO Pacific Rim 2020

ICO Prizes announced, Call for Papers for ICO-25

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 01:33:18 GMT

The latest Newsletter of International Commission for Optics is available here, including announcement of ICO prizes 2019 together with the last call for papers for the next ICO General Meeting that will take place in Dresden, Germany from 31st August till 4th September 2020, in coincidence with the meeting of the International Society for Optics Within Life Sciences (OWLS-16).

ANZCOP 2019 Registration and Discount Code for AOS Members

Stephen Collins — Thu, 31 Oct 2019 03:13:18 GMT

The early bird registration deadline for ANZCOP 2019 is approaching soon, so please register soon to lock in the early bird discount.

You can register at the following link: https://spie.org/conferences-and-exhibitions/anzcop/registration.

AOS Members are entitled to a further discount - please use the discount code that you received via email

We are very much looking forward to meeting with you in Melbourne at the AOS annual conference ANZCOP 2019 !

Call for Papers for ANZCOP 2019

Stephen Collins — Fri, 10 May 2019 01:37:06 GMT

The Australian and New Zealand Conferences on Optics and Photonics - ANZCOP 2019 brings together four co-located conferences with a central theme of optics and photonics.

It will be held at RMIT Univ. Melbourne, Australia; 8 - 12 December 2019.

Abstract Due Date 5 June 2019

It is our great pleasure to announce that the abstract submission deadline is extended to Wednesday 19th June.

Call for papers

RMIT Distinguished Professor Min Gu won SPIE Dennis Gabor Award

Tue, 15 Jan 2019 23:15:56 GMT

AOS member, and 2011 Beattie Steel medalist, Professor Min Gu from RMIT University has been awarded the 2019 SPIE Dennis Gabor Award in recognition of his pioneering work in nanoscale information optics. Internationally renowned for his expertise in 3D optical imaging theory, his discoveries are helping drive the development of solutions to some of our biggest challenges in renewable energy, information technology and big data storage.Congratulations Min!

https://www.rmit.edu.au/news/all-news/2019/jan/optics-award-pioneering-physicist

AOS and OSA Renewed Collaboration Agreement

Simon Fleming — Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:07:12 GMT

At the recent AIP Congress, OSA President Ian Walmsley and AOS President Simon Fleming signed a renewed collaboration agreement. The two societies to agreed to work together to enhance relations and improve communication in the best interest of their membership and the optics and photonics community. Direct benefits to members include discounts for joint membership and discounts to attend each other's (non co-sponsored) meetings (AOS-OSA).

Image courtesy of Chad Stark, OSA.

2018 AOS Geoff Opat Early Career Researcher Prize awarded to Dr Mohsen Rahmani

Simon Fleming — Sun, 09 Sep 2018 02:49:08 GMT

The AOS is pleased to announce that we have awarded the 2018 Geoff Opat Early Career Research Prize to Dr Mohsen Rahmani from the Australian National University.

This prize usually presents a challenge to the judging committee because of the quality of the applicants, and this year was especially so. The committee were presented with an exceptional group of talented applicants, all of whom received glowing reports from the nominated referees.

This is the second prize that Dr Rahmani has won in a little over a week, having been recently awarded a Eureka Prize.

Congratulations Mohsen!

Three AOS members were Eureka Prize winners at last night’s awards dinner

Simon Fleming — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 23:56:40 GMT

Prof. Halina Rubinstein-Dunlop AO, past AOS President, current AOS Councillor and recent winner of the AOS Beattie Steel Medal , was part of the University of Queensland team that won the 2018 UNSW Eureka Prize for Excellence in Interdisciplinary Scientific Research for “Optical Physics in Neuroscience”

Prof. Andre Luiten was part of “The Sapphire Clock Team”, from The Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide and Cryoclock Pty Ltd, that won the 2018 Defence Science and Technology Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia

Dr Mohsen Rahmani, from the Australian National University, won the 2018 Macquarie University Eureka Prize for Outstanding Early Career Researcher.

For more details, including links to videos, see https://australianmuseum.net.au/2018-eureka-prizes-winners

Congratulations Halina, Andre and Mohsen

AOS Councillor Dr Frédérique Vanholsbeeck awarded OSA Diversity & Inclusion Advocacy Recognition

Simon Fleming — Tue, 28 Aug 2018 01:47:01 GMT

AOS is delighted to advise that Dr Frédérique Vanholsbeeck from the University of Auckland has been awarded OSA Diversity & Inclusion Advocacy Recognition based on her profound influence on the practices of her university and more generally in New Zealand science, and through her work on the AOS Council. She been a vocal promotor of gender parity in selecting invited conference speakers, based on her belief that this is central to giving these conferences, and scientific fields they represent, a positive image to junior female students. Thanks to her involvement and drive, ACOFT 2016 was seen as a shining example amongst the meetings of OSA’s Photonics and Fiber Technology congress in Sydney. Amongst other things, as AOS Councillor she promoted a policy that AOS only sponsors events that have appropriate gender and diversity policies, and she has argued to ensure that each AOS prize has at least one female applicant.

AOS Photo Competition

Simon Fleming — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 01:57:00 GMT

Help us demonstrate the beauty of optics and photonics

Please submit photographs that capture some aspects of optics and photonics, and are aesthetically pleasing. They can, for instance, be of your research, of optical phenomena, of optical devices.

We want your assistance in generating photographs that we can use to promote Australian and New Zealand optics and photonics in print and online.

We will publish the best photograph on the front cover of AOS News, and whoever submits this will get a year’s membership free.

To enter, you need to send to ausoptsoc@gmail.com:

1)     The photograph (see required specifications below)

2)     Your name and organisation

3)     A brief (one or two sentence) description of the photo

4)     A covering email, that states “I ____full_name____ took this photograph and own the copyright. I hereby provide a royalty-free, perpetual, non-exclusive license to the Australian Optical Society to reproduce this photograph in print, online or other format.”

The photos will be judged by a panel including three AOS Councillors, the Editor of the AOS News and the AOS Webmaster.

The Small Print The competition will continue on a quarterly basis with judging for each issue of AOS News. AOS reserves the right to carry forward good entries from one quarter to the next, and in any particular quarter to award multiple winners or to award no winner. The competition will initially run until end of 2019. AOS may extend this date or terminate earlier, advising by email, through AOS News, or other reasonable communication.

Photo Specifications JPG, PNG or TIF, at least 300 dpi, 3600x2400 pixels (otherwise ask first.)

Queries to ausoptsoc@gmail.com

2018 AOS W. H. (Beattie) Steel Medal awarded to Prof Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop

Simon Fleming — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 10:49:45 GMT

The 2018 AOS W. H. (Beattie) Steel Medal is awarded to Prof Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop for her contributions to diverse fields of optics, including laser physics, linear and nonlinear high-resolution spectroscopy, laser micromanipulation, atom cooling and trapping and nano-optics. She is one of the originators of laser-enhanced ionisation spectroscopy and is a pioneer of laser micromanipulation and transfer of angular momentum of light and all optical drive micromechanics. Halina initiated the experimental programs in laser micromanipulation and atom optics at the University of Queensland. She has served the Australian and New Zealand optical community as President of the Australian Optical Society and as a member of the Council for many years, as well as serving on many conference committees. She has been a mentor and role model for many, as the first woman Professor of Physics in Australia.

AOS Members Eureka Prize Finalists

Simon Fleming — Thu, 26 Jul 2018 10:47:52 GMT

The Eureka Prize finalists include at least two AOS members, one an AOS Councillor. Good luck Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop and Mohsen Rahmani (and any other members I failed to spot).

Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop recipient of the Officer (AO) in the General Division of the Order of Australia

Simon Fleming — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 06:35:58 GMT

Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop has been recognised in the Queen's Birthday 2018 honours list. She is a recipient of the Officer (AO) in the General Division of the Order of Australia, for distinguished service to laser physics and nano-optics as a researcher, mentor and academic, to the promotion of educational programs, and to women in science. Halina has been an AOS Councillor since 1994 and was AOS President 1998-2000. link to Details

STEM leaders forge path to stronger Australian science and technology

Simon Fleming — Thu, 03 May 2018 01:13:55 GMT

STEM leaders forge path to stronger Australian science and technology

Presidents, CEOs and other leaders of Australia’s most prominent science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) organisations gathered in Canberra today (1 May) to highlight the important role that science and technology will play in Australia’s future.

They released the following statement:

Collectively representing more than 70,000 Australian scientists and technologists through our membership and staff, we call for science to be a priority platform for the major parties’ campaigns in the next federal election.

Science and technology will shape our future, but without adequate support and high profile, Australian science, innovation and discovery will fall by the wayside.

There are four areas of focus we call on decision-makers and candidates to address when Australians are called to vote at the next election:

A whole-of-government plan for science and technology
A strategy to equip the future Australian workforce with STEM skills
Strong investment in both basic and applied research
Creating policy informed by the best available evidence

Specific issues to be addressed include:

A thorough and thoughtful response to the R&D Tax Incentive review, that achieves a system that boosts public-private collaboration and accentuates Australia’s scientific and technological strengths
A clear and long-term plan to support Australia’s research infrastructure, informed by the National Research Infrastructure Roadmap
A bold and ambitious national target for scientific and technological research investment, which puts Australia in a position to lead the world in STEM.
Action to remove barriers (such as caps and limits) that stand in the way of Australians participating and excelling in STEM education

A government that uses science to inform and underpin its decisions will lead Australia to a brighter future.

A government that directly invests in discovery-led, basic research will unlock the solutions of the future.

A government that fosters and rewards innovation and entrepreneurship will secure Australia’s economic success.

A government that leads from the front, inspiring the private sector to invest in science and technology, will help Australia achieve a stable and prosperous future.

We, the nation’s science and technology leaders, will work hard to ensure that the health, wealth and wellbeing of all Australians are secured for many generations to come.

Working in the solutions sector, the thousands of STEM professionals in Australia will work to tackle the great challenges facing the world, and solve them with science.

In striving towards this bold vision, we ask for the support of Australians, Australian governments and candidates in future federal elections.

The Science & Technology Australia membership supports this statement, including the following organisations:

Student Prizes at ANZCOP 2017

Simon Fleming — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 23:28:08 GMT

The AOS congratulates the following students for excellent papers and presentations at the very successful, AOS cosponsored, ANZCOP conference last week in Queenstown, NZ. These papers resulted in the award of the following prizes.

James Spollard, Australian National University PhD student, won the SPIE prize. This prize is a consequence of our MoU with SPIE and includes $1500 towards attending an SPIE conference. The photo shows Jim Oschmann, Vice-President of SPIE awarding the prize.

Sara Lau, University of Queensland PhD student, won the OSA prize for best oral presentation. This cash prize is a consequence of our MoU with the OSA. The photo shows Ursula Gibson, Vice-President of OSA awarding the prize.

Calida Tang, University of Sydney senior undergraduate student, won the Wanda Henry prize. This cash prize is awarded each year at ACOFT (one of the constituent events of ANZCOP). The photo shows Simon Fleming, President of AOS awarding the prize.

The Dodd-Walls Centre, ANZCOP cosponsor, also provided several student poster prizes.

AOS and SPIE renewed Memorandum of Understanding

Simon Fleming — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 07:55:24 GMT

AOS and SPIE have renewed our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for another three years. The agreement was signed on 28th October by Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop and Glenn Boreman. The purpose is to promote optics and photonics research and education and serve members of the international optical science and engineering community. The terms of the MoU include information exchange, joint promotion of events and activities, leadership exchange visits, and an SPIE student prize at our annual conference.

2017 AOS Awards winners

Simon Fleming — Tue, 10 Oct 2017 08:51:35 GMT

The AOS is delighted to announce the winners of several of the AOS Prizes for this year.

The AOS Geoff Opat Early Career Researcher Prize has been awarded to Dr Sergey Kruk from ANU.

Both the AOS Postgraduate Student Prize and the AOS/Warsash Science Communication Prize in Optics have been awarded to Ms Litty Thekkekara from RMIT University

Well done Sergey and Litty!

Look out for articles in forthcoming issues of AOS News from the winners. Note that Sergey will give an Invited Talk at ANZCOP in Queenstown in December on his prize-winning work. The 2016 winner, Andrea Blanco Redondo, will also give her Geoff Opat talk at ANZCOP.

The AOS Prize Committee is still deliberating regarding the Beattie Steele Prize and a further announcement should be forthcoming.

Six renowned Australian scientists elected as new OSA Fellows

Simon Fleming — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 01:42:22 GMT

Congratulations to our new Fellows of The Optical Society, who have served with distinction in the advancement of optics and photonics. Well-deserved honour!

Prof John Canning (USyd)
Dr Adrian Carter (Nufern)
Prof Deb Kane (Macquarie)
Prof Malin Premaratne (Monash)
Prof Ann Roberts (UMelb)
Prof Howard Wiseman (Griffith)

The official announcement of the full list can be find here.

IUPAP Young Scientist Prizes adwarded to AOS members

Simon Fleming — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 01:18:43 GMT

Congratulations to A/Prof Igor Aharonovich (UTS) and Dr Mohsen Rahmani (ANU) for winning The Young Scientist Award of the Year 2017 for the Commission on Laser Physics and Photonics (C17), International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP)!

Igor was awarded for the Applied Aspects and Mohsen for the Fundamental Aspects, respectively. Find more from the Official Announcement.

Changes to AOS Council

Simon Fleming — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 10:20:36 GMT

At the Annual General Meeting of the AOS on 5th December 2016 two Councillors retired, and two new Councillors were elected.

We say goodbye to Anne Roberts, who was the last Past President, and Maryanne Large, and thank them for the very valuable contributions to the AOS.

We welcome Daniel Gomez, from RMIT, and Frederique Vanholsbeeck, from Auckland.

Stephen Collins moves to Past President, Simon Fleming to President, and John Harvey was elected to Vice President.

For more detail see Council.

Equity and Diversity Policy

Simon Fleming — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 22:00:00 GMT

At an e-meeting in October 2016 the Council has discussed and agreed upon a Policy on Equity and Diversity, which begins by noting “The Australian Optical Society (AOS) is committed to the principles of equity and diversity. These principles are integral to our desire to promote excellence and fairness, and to encourage interest in optics across the community.” and stating “conferences and events associated with the AOS must also be run according to these principles.”. Similar policies have been adopted by other professional societies. Further details can be found at Equity and Diversity Policy

Vale Professor John Love

Simon Fleming — Sun, 19 Jun 2016 11:00:00 GMT

It is with great sadness that we notify you of John Love’s passing today at 6:45am on 19 June 2016. He was surrounded by loving friends in Canberra hospital on his last day.

Born in England 2^nd October 1942, John Love was a Life Member of the Australian Optical Society and winner of the prestigious Beattie Steel medal. His career in optics and photonics began when he arrived in Australia in 1973. Over the following forty plus years he made a major impact on the field. He is widely known for the definitive textbook, Optical Waveguide Theory, with 5500 citations and translated into Russian and Chinese. John was an enthusiastic champion of many important research and educational initiatives in Australia, including being a stalwart of the ACOFT conference, the world’s second longest running photonics conference. He also leaves a much more direct and personal impact on the very many students and young academics he mentored, who will remember him with love and respect, especially for how generous he was with his time and knowledge.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be finalised, although anticipated to be in approx. a week’s time. For notification of details please contact either Susan (susan.dart@bigpond.com) or Lin (lin.thorncraft@bigpond.com).

(Photo by kind permission of the Australian National University)

Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop and Ben Eggleton, Fellows of the AAS

Simon Fleming — Mon, 23 May 2016 01:00:00 GMT

The AOS is delighted that two of our Councillors, Professors Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop and Benjamin Eggleton, have been made Fellows of the AAS.

https://www.science.org.au/fellowship/fellows/new-fellows/fellows-elected-2016