1st International College on Modern Applications of Optics and Photonics being held at YSU

MAOP2024, which commenced on August 12, 2024, features a one-week series of practical classes followed by a week of presentations and panel discussions, all conducted in the optics laboratories at Yerevan State University. Leading scientists and students from around the world are presenting innovations and conducting research projects in parallel within a laboratory setting. The event will continue until August 23, 2024.

During the first week, students explored various aspects of optics and photonics, acquired new skills, and engaged in scientific experiments and practical tasks. In the second week, they have the opportunity to present their research findings through oral and poster presentations alongside established scientists.

Tatevik Chalyan, a researcher at the Free University of Brussels and a Co-Founder of MAOP2024, highlighted the significance of organizing this college on modern applications of optics and photonics. She stated, "Optics and photonics are integral to many aspects of daily life, including science, medicine, and information exchange. I think it is crucial to equip students with knowledge that forms the foundation for becoming modern professionals. Therefore, we have focused on several key scientific areas. The practical lessons, laboratory work, and lectures are centered on three main topics: the application of artificial intelligence in physics, specifically in the field of optics and photonics, quantum optics, in particular, quantum cryptography, and non-linear materials, the applications of materials, taking into account the fact that material science is considered a key direction today." 

The researcher added that Yerevan State University is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, providing students in Armenia with the opportunity to acquire new knowledge in this environment. 

Mushegh Rafayelyan, Head of the Photonics and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at YSU Physics Institute and Co-Founder of MAOP2024, talked about the chosen format and student involvement in the college. He highlighted that the participants have engaged in various scientific experiments, solved numerous tasks, and prepared reports in the Photonics and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. 

"We regularly implement various programs that allow students to explore the specifics of the field. In organizing this college, we ensured that the topics reflect current trends in optics. While most participants have substantial experience in physics, some have less experience. Those with less experience benefit from working in groups of 4-5 with more experienced peers, gaining valuable knowledge," emphasized Mushegh Rafayelyan.

Shant Sargsyan, a 4th-year student at the YSU Institute of Physics and a member of the MAOP2024 organizing team, highlighted the importance of students’ participation in the college. He emphasized that it provides a valuable opportunity to understand various directions in optics and photonics within a week, acquiring both theoretical and practical knowledge to complement what they have learned at university.

"Within the framework of the college, students have the opportunity to participate in both the college and the conference at no cost. It serves as a crucial platform for professional orientation, allowing students with an interest in optics and photonics to explore their specific areas of interest. It also provides a valuable chance to interact with leading scientists and researchers, as well as listen to their presentations, which is an insightful experience," said Shant. 

40 students from Armenia, Russia, Iran, and Poland are participating in the international college. During the first week, they explored physical phenomena and conducted experiments in the laboratory. Fateme Gheibi, a master's student at the Institute of Advanced Studies in Basic Sciences (IASBS) in Iran, shared her impressions of the laboratory work.

"I have always been interested in physics and scientific experiments. I am happy to participate in this college, as it offers a valuable opportunity to gain new knowledge, make new friends, and share experiences," emphasized Fateme. She added that while she has some laboratory experience, this college is an excellent chance to further enhance that experience.

"Within the framework of the international college, we study the latest developments in photonics and conduct experiments that are new to me, which makes the work even more interesting. I am very happy to be here at YSU," she said. 

In the second week of the International College MAOP2024, invited speakers from over 12 scientific research institutions around the world arrived at YSU. They will present lectures on a range of research topics, share their experiences, and offer new insights. Special emphasis is placed on lectures aimed at professional development. The program features numerous lectures dedicated to one of the period’s most significant advancements: high-speed lasers. Ursula Keller, a renowned Swiss physicist and multiple award laureate, delivered a lecture on this topic.

"As part of the college, I delivered three lectures on high-speed lasers. I must note that there was a very high level of interest in the subject among the students. We had active discussions on various questions they raised," said the professor.

Speaking about the organizational aspects of the college, she added that the MAOP2024 team has done a tremendous job. According to the physicist, progress in optics and photonics in Armenia is obvious. She emphasized that success in the field is achieved when students are provided with opportunities to study abroad and then apply their acquired knowledge in their own country. 

When asked about what students need to build a successful career, Ursula Keller said: "I believe the best investment in students’ professional development is to motivate them and make the field attractive so they are driven to achieve their goals. It is essential to provide opportunities for them to gain experience abroad and to create conditions for them to return and apply their accumulated knowledge in their own country." 

Unlike Professor Ursula Keller, who is visiting Yerevan State University for the first time, Mateusz Shatkowski, a young professor from Wroclaw University of Science and Technology (Poland), is here for the fourth time. During the college, he will present his group's work on laser beam control.

"I remember that when I was a student, it was extremely important for me to participate in conferences, which provided an opportunity to develop my skills, communication abilities, knowledge, and make many friends. The participants of our college today have this opportunity. They can interact with the world's leading scientists and experienced specialists, listen to their insights, and perhaps, in the future, collaborate with these physicists in their own research," said Mateusz Shatkowski.

The 1st International College on Modern Applications of Optics and Photonics (MAOP2024) is organized by Optica and SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics joint student chapter of Yerevan State University (YSO Student Chapter). The event is supported by the YSU Institute of Physics and the Institute of Physical Research of the RA NAS. MAOP2024 is sponsored by the "Special Program" of YSO’s Optica, with financial support grants provided by the RA Committee of Higher Education and Science for the organization of the school of young scientists. Supporters include YSU, SPIE, and THORLABS.