CORNERSTONE Photonics Innovation Centre (C-PIC)
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Southampton
Department Name: Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC)
Abstract
However, access to silicon prototyping facilities remains a challenge in the UK due to the high cost of both equipment and the cleanroom facilities that are required to house the equipment. Furthermore, there is often a disconnect in communication between industry and academia, resulting in some industrial challenges remaining unsolved, and support, training, and networking opportunities for academics to engage with commercialisation activities isn't widespread.
The C-PIC host institutions comprising University of Southampton, University of Glasgow and the Science and Technologies Facilities Council (STFC), together with 105 partners at proposal stage, will overcome these challenges by uniting leading UK entrepreneurs and researchers, together with a network of support to streamline the route to commercialisation, translating a wide range of technologies from research labs into industry, underpinned by the C-PIC silicon photonics prototyping foundry. Applications will cover data centre communications; sensing for healthcare, the environment & defence; quantum technologies; artificial intelligence; LiDAR; and more.
We will deliver our vision by fulfilling these objectives:
Translate a wide range of silicon photonics technologies from research labs into industry, supporting the creation of new companies & jobs, and subsequently social & economic impact.
Interconnect the UK silicon photonics ecosystem, acting as the front door to UK expertise, including by launching an online Knowledge Hub.
Fund a broad range of Innovation projects supporting industrial-academic collaborations aimed at solving real world industry problems, with the overarching goal of demonstrating high potential solutions in a variety of application areas.
Embed equality, diversity, and inclusion best practice into everything we do.
Deliver the world's only open source, fully flexible silicon photonics prototyping foundry based on industry-like technology, facilitating straightforward scale-up to commercial viability.
Support entrepreneurs in their journey to commercialisation by facilitating networks with venture capitalists, mentors, training, and recruitment.
Represent the interests of the community at large with policy makers and the public, becoming an internationally renowned Centre able to secure overseas investment and international partners.
Act as a convening body for the field in the UK, becoming a hub of skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities, with regular events aimed at ensuring possibilities for advancing the field and delivering impact are fully exploited.
Increase the number of skilled staff working in impact generating roles in the field of silicon photonics via a range of training events and company growth, whilst routinely seeking additional funding to expand training offerings.
The C-PIC host institutions comprising University of Southampton, University of Glasgow and the Science and Technologies Facilities Council (STFC), together with 105 partners at proposal stage, will overcome these challenges by uniting leading UK entrepreneurs and researchers, together with a network of support to streamline the route to commercialisation, translating a wide range of technologies from research labs into industry, underpinned by the C-PIC silicon photonics prototyping foundry. Applications will cover data centre communications; sensing for healthcare, the environment & defence; quantum technologies; artificial intelligence; LiDAR; and more.
We will deliver our vision by fulfilling these objectives:
Translate a wide range of silicon photonics technologies from research labs into industry, supporting the creation of new companies & jobs, and subsequently social & economic impact.
Interconnect the UK silicon photonics ecosystem, acting as the front door to UK expertise, including by launching an online Knowledge Hub.
Fund a broad range of Innovation projects supporting industrial-academic collaborations aimed at solving real world industry problems, with the overarching goal of demonstrating high potential solutions in a variety of application areas.
Embed equality, diversity, and inclusion best practice into everything we do.
Deliver the world's only open source, fully flexible silicon photonics prototyping foundry based on industry-like technology, facilitating straightforward scale-up to commercial viability.
Support entrepreneurs in their journey to commercialisation by facilitating networks with venture capitalists, mentors, training, and recruitment.
Represent the interests of the community at large with policy makers and the public, becoming an internationally renowned Centre able to secure overseas investment and international partners.
Act as a convening body for the field in the UK, becoming a hub of skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities, with regular events aimed at ensuring possibilities for advancing the field and delivering impact are fully exploited.
Increase the number of skilled staff working in impact generating roles in the field of silicon photonics via a range of training events and company growth, whilst routinely seeking additional funding to expand training offerings.
Organisations
- University of Southampton (Lead Research Organisation)
- Innovate UK (Co-funder)
- Deutsches Electronen-Synchrotron (DESY) (Collaboration)
- Luceda Photonics (Collaboration, Project Partner)
- VLC Photonics (Collaboration)
- Munster Technological University (Collaboration)
- IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON (Collaboration)
- UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL (Collaboration)
- UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE (Collaboration)
- BAE Systems (Collaboration)
- UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER (Collaboration)
- University of Sheffield (Collaboration)
- ePIXfab (Project Partner)
- InSpek (Project Partner)
- TOSHIBA EUROPE LIMITED (Project Partner)
- Intel Corporation (UK) Ltd (Project Partner)
- Cadence Design Systems Ltd (Project Partner)
- Europractice (Project Partner)
- Nanoscribe GmbH (Project Partner)
- Tyndall National Institute (Project Partner)
- Silicon Catalyst UK Ltd (Project Partner)
- Plasmore Srl (Project Partner)
- Newcastle University (Project Partner)
- Compugraphics International Ltd (Project Partner)
- Sivers Photonics Ltd (Project Partner)
- University of Twente (Project Partner)
- Optalysys Ltd (Project Partner)
- University of Bristol (Project Partner)
- Rockley Photonics Limited (Project Partner)
- CNIT (Project Partner)
- University of Huddersfield (Project Partner)
- Oxford Instruments Group (UK) (Project Partner)
- McMaster University (Project Partner)
- Aquark Technologies (Project Partner)
- Scottish Enterprise (Project Partner)
- Seagate Technology (Ireland) (Project Partner)
- Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult (Project Partner)
- Imperial College London (Project Partner)
- Czech Technical University in Prague (Project Partner)
- Stanford University (Project Partner)
- BT plc (Project Partner)
- Aberystwyth University (Project Partner)
- Trellisense (Project Partner)
- CMC Microsystems (Project Partner)
- Digital Catapult (Project Partner)
- University of Valencia (Project Partner)
- University of Cambridge (Project Partner)
- CompoundTek Pte Ltd (Project Partner)
- Tech Tour Europe (Project Partner)
- University of Strathclyde (Project Partner)
- Lancaster University (Project Partner)
- Siloton Ltd (Project Partner)
- Technical University of Bari (Project Partner)
- University of Sheffield (Project Partner)
- Royal Holloway University of London (Project Partner)
- Bioherent (Project Partner)
- Queen's University Belfast (Project Partner)
- National Physical Laboratory (Project Partner)
- University of Manchester (Project Partner)
- PsiQuantum Ltd (Project Partner)
- Octopus Ventures (Project Partner)
- UNIVERSITY OF EXETER (Project Partner)
- IBM Research GmbH (Project Partner)
- Gooch & Housego Ltd (Project Partner)
- Google Inc (Project Partner)
- Technology Scotland (Project Partner)
- Renishaw PLC (Project Partner)
- University of Aberdeen (Project Partner)
- Aston University (Project Partner)
- Xanadu (Project Partner)
- Duality Quantum Photonics Ltd (Project Partner)
- Wave Photonics (Project Partner)
- Photonics Leadership Group (Project Partner)
- Alter Technology UK Ltd (Project Partner)
- Quantinuum (Project Partner)
- University of Malaga (Project Partner)
- PICadvanced (Project Partner)
- Microsoft Limited (Project Partner)
- University of Birmingham (Project Partner)
- Photronics (U K) Ltd (Project Partner)
- Cambridge Consultants Ltd (Project Partner)
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (Project Partner)
- University of Salford (Project Partner)
- Lightelligence (Project Partner)
- Pointcloud (Project Partner)
- Light Trace Photonics Ltd (Project Partner)
- National Quantum Computing Centre (Project Partner)
- Swansea University (Project Partner)
- Lumiphase AG (Project Partner)
- CARDIFF UNIVERSITY (Project Partner)
- SENKO Advanced Components (Project Partner)
- Camgraphic Ltd (Project Partner)
- Akhetonics (Project Partner)
- iPronics Programmable Photonics (Project Partner)
- QinetiQ (Malvern) (Project Partner)
- University of Nottingham (Project Partner)
- Solent LEP (Project Partner)
- Zero Point Motion Ltd (Project Partner)
- Institute of High Performance Computing (Project Partner)
- Loughborough University (Project Partner)
- Polytechnic University of Milan (Project Partner)
- University of St Andrews (Project Partner)
- Delft University of Technology (Project Partner)
- IQE PLC (Project Partner)
- Elforlight Ltd (Project Partner)
- University of York (Project Partner)
- PhotonIP (Project Partner)
- University of Pavia (Project Partner)
- Nanyang Technological University (Project Partner)
- Leonardo (Project Partner)
- Heriot-Watt University (Project Partner)
- Durham University (Project Partner)
- CNRS (Project Partner)
- Resolute Photonics (UK) Ltd (Project Partner)
- Synopsys (Northern Europe Ltd.) (Project Partner)
- Bay Photonics Ltd (Project Partner)
Publications
Chang T
(2024)
Advancing All Silicon MOSCAP Ring Modulators With Ultra-Thin Sub-5 nm Insulator
in Journal of Lightwave Technology
Coggrave C
(2024)
Single-shot wavelength meter on a chip based on exponentially increasing delays and in-phase quadrature detection
in Optics and Lasers in Engineering
Dong B
(2024)
Partial coherence enhances parallelized photonic computing
in Nature
Mitchell C
(2024)
Mid-infrared silicon photonics: From benchtop to real-world applications
in APL Photonics
Ranno L
(2024)
Crown ether decorated silicon photonics for safeguarding against lead poisoning.
in Nature communications
Thomson D
(2024)
All-silicon optical modulators and detectors
Zhou L
(2025)
3D integrated silicon photonics transmitters for 224 Gbaud optical interconnects
in Optics Communications
| Description | British Taiwanese All Party Parliamentary Group |
| Geographic Reach | Multiple continents/international |
| Policy Influence Type | Participation in a guidance/advisory committee |
| URL | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yzZ5PHLTpmQ |
| Description | CORNERSTONE reference in techUK 'UK Plan for Chips' |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Citation in systematic reviews |
| URL | https://www.techuk.org/resource/tech-uk-s-report-uk-plan-for-chips-a-new-blueprint-is-now-live.html |
| Description | CORNERSTONE referenced in the RAEng Quantum Infrastructure Review |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Citation in systematic reviews |
| URL | https://raeng.org.uk/media/rrqjm2v3/quantum-infrastructure-review.pdf |
| Description | DSIT Semiconductor sector study |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Contribution to a national consultation/review |
| URL | https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/semiconductor-sector-study/semiconductor-sector-study |
| Description | Future Defence, Deterrence and Resilience Conference Report |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Contribution to a national consultation/review |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/wilton-park_future-defence-deterrence-resilience-activity-72732452973... |
| Description | G7 semiconductors Point of Contact forum |
| Geographic Reach | Multiple continents/international |
| Policy Influence Type | Participation in a guidance/advisory committee |
| Description | OECD Semiconductor Group roundtable |
| Geographic Reach | Multiple continents/international |
| Policy Influence Type | Participation in a guidance/advisory committee |
| URL | https://www.oecd.org/en/networks/semiconductor-informal-exchange-network.html |
| Description | Parliament roundtable with Chi Onwurah MP |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Participation in a guidance/advisory committee |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/helloparisi_quantumcomputing-nuclearfusion-semiconductors-activity-71... |
| Description | Participation in roundtable on |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Participation in a guidance/advisory committee |
| URL | https://www.techuk.org/what-we-deliver/events/roundtable-uk-plan-for-chips-turning-strategy-into-act... |
| Description | UK Semiconductor Policy Paper |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Contribution to a national consultation/review |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/silicon-catalyst-uk_semiconductor-policy-paper-activity-7261660191006... |
| Description | UKTIN white paper on semiconductors |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Participation in a guidance/advisory committee |
| URL | https://uktin.net/sites/default/files/2024-07/FCP%20Semiconductors%20for%20Telecoms_FINAL.pdf |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - Alien Sandbox |
| Amount | £14,250 (GBP) |
| Organisation | University of Texas |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United States |
| Start | 06/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - BAE Systems |
| Amount | £14,870 (GBP) |
| Organisation | BAE Systems |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 08/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - CSA Catapult |
| Amount | £7,125 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult |
| Sector | Private |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 02/2025 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - DESY |
| Amount | £31,640 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Deutsches Electronen-Synchrotron (DESY) |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | Germany |
| Start | 12/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - Ghent University |
| Amount | £74,807 (GBP) |
| Organisation | University of Ghent |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | Belgium |
| Start | 05/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - Hokkaido University |
| Amount | £18,250 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Hokkaido University |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | Japan |
| Start | 06/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - Munster Technological University |
| Amount | £5,430 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Munster Technological University |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | Ireland |
| Start | 02/2025 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - National Sun Yat-sen University |
| Amount | £14,250 (GBP) |
| Organisation | National Sun Yat-sen University |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | Taiwan, Province of China |
| Start | 06/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - Tyndall |
| Amount | £15,725 (GBP) |
| Organisation | University College Cork |
| Department | Tyndall National Institute |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | Ireland |
| Start | 06/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - University College London |
| Amount | £3,563 (GBP) |
| Organisation | University College London |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 06/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - University of Bristol |
| Amount | £5,125 (GBP) |
| Organisation | University of Bristol |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 06/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - University of Strathclyde |
| Amount | £14,250 (GBP) |
| Organisation | University of Strathclyde |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 12/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - VLC (Hitachi) |
| Amount | £22,471 (GBP) |
| Organisation | VLC Photonics |
| Sector | Private |
| Country | Spain |
| Start | 12/2024 |
| Description | C-PIC Enterprise Income - Zeiss |
| Amount | £1,700 (GBP) |
| Organisation | ZEISS |
| Sector | Private |
| Country | Germany |
| Start | 06/2024 |
| Description | DOLORES |
| Amount | € 3,015,883 (EUR) |
| Funding ID | 101130178 |
| Organisation | European Commission H2020 |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | Belgium |
| Start | 08/2024 |
| End | 08/2028 |
| Description | EQUINOX |
| Amount | £2,239,643 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | 10102939 |
| Organisation | Innovate UK |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 11/2024 |
| End | 03/2026 |
| Description | Impact Acceleration Account: Open-source Silicon Photonics PDK to Power Artificial Intelligence in Photonics |
| Amount | £61,255 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 03/2025 |
| End | 12/2025 |
| Description | PIXEurope |
| Amount | € 190,000,000 (EUR) |
| Funding ID | 101213727 |
| Organisation | European Commission |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | Belgium |
| Start | 04/2025 |
| End | 04/2030 |
| Description | PIXEurope |
| Amount | € 5,000,000 (EUR) |
| Organisation | Innovate UK |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 04/2025 |
| End | 04/2030 |
| Title | Open source Process Design Kit (PDK) of silicon photonics components |
| Description | The world's first open source database of silicon photonics components for a variety of silicon photonics platforms which enables other researchers to design circuits based on existing components with a known functionality and peformance. |
| Type Of Material | Computer model/algorithm |
| Year Produced | 2018 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Economic impact from increased number of paying users to the CORNERSTONE fabrication service |
| URL | https://www.cornerstone.sotonfab.co.uk/design-rules/ |
| Description | CORNERSTONE 2 User: University of Bristol |
| Organisation | University of Bristol |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Fabrication of SiN photonics chip |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design of SiN photonics chip |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE 2 User: University of Manchester |
| Organisation | University of Manchester |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Fabrication of SiN photonics chip |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design of SiN photonics chip |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE 2 User: University of Strathclyde |
| Organisation | University of Strathclyde |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Fabrication of SiN photonics chip |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design of SiN photonics chip |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE 2.5 User: BAE Systems |
| Organisation | BAE Systems |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Fabrication of PICs |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design of PICs |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE 2.5 User: Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) |
| Organisation | Deutsches Electronen-Synchrotron (DESY) |
| Country | Germany |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Fabrication of PICs |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design of PICs |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE 2.5 User: Imperial College London |
| Organisation | Imperial College London |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Design of PICs |
| Collaborator Contribution | Fabrication of PICs |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE 2.5 User: Munster Technological University |
| Organisation | Munster Technological University |
| Country | Ireland |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Fabrication of PICs |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design of PICs |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2025 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE 2.5 User: University of Sheffield |
| Organisation | University of Sheffield |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Fabrication of PICs |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design of PICs |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE 2.5 User: VLC (Hitachi) |
| Organisation | VLC Photonics |
| Country | Spain |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Fabrication of PICs |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design of PICs |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE PDK provider |
| Organisation | Luceda Photonics |
| Country | Belgium |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Generation of open source photonics components design |
| Collaborator Contribution | Creation of PDK for researchers |
| Impact | / |
| Start Year | 2020 |
| Description | Arts and Humanities Festival, Play with Light Workshops |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | On November 9th, 2024, Emily Crawshaw, a Research Technician at CORNERSTONE, captivated families and individuals at the University of Southampton's Arts and Humanities Festival. Held in the vibrant Southampton Cultural Quarter, Emily participated in the 'Play with Light' activity day organised by the Optics and Photonics Society (OpSoc). During the festival, Emily assisted PhD and master's students in engaging the public with CORNERSTONE's research. She showcased a silicon wafer, explaining step-by-step the typical fabrication process. This information was made accessible for a range of ages and abilities, ranging from young children to adults with a scientific background. This hands-on demonstration introduced visitors to the fascinating world of silicon photonics without revealing proprietary information. Throughout the day she also assisted in explaining other scientific concepts, this included making kaleidoscopes and enhancing peoples understanding of fibre optics and reflection. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.cornerstone.sotonfab.co.uk/news-stories-copy/?et_fb=1&PageSpeed=off |
| Description | C-PIC Launch event at House of Lords |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | We launched the CORNERSTONE Photonics Innovation Centre at the UK House of Lords, bringing together leaders from industry, academia, and government bodies such as EPSRC, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and Innovate UK, alongside Members of Parliament to explore the future of photonics and semiconductor innovation in the UK. National Technology Advisor Dave Smith reinforced that photonics is consistently important technologies to the UK, playing a vital role in telecoms, manufacturing, AI, and quantum. He stressed the importance of ensuring that UK businesses, Universities and startups have the -. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE Stand at SPIE Photonics West, San Francisco |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | CORNERSTONE stand at SPIE Photonics West trade show, as part of the UK Pavilion. Included hosting British Afternoon Tea with the Department for Business and Trade. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| Description | CORNERSTONE at BICOP 2024 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | CORNERSTONE team attended the BICOP exhibition and Callum Littlejohns presented an introduction to C-PIC. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Cambridge Tech Week |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Andy Sellars chaired the session on 'Drivers Behind Success' at Pembroke College, Cambridge, with esteemed panellists Rachel Oliver, Jamie Urquhart and Nicky Athanassopoulou. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/andygsellars_semiconductors-quantum-activity-7240431205446295552-U5tN... |
| Description | ECOC 2024 trade show stand |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | The team hosted an exhibition stand at ECOC 2024 in Frankfurt where they engaged with 126 delegates to raise awareness of the potential solutions offered by silicon photonics and support available via C-PIC including the CORNERSTONE foundry. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Global Leaders' Summit, London Tech Week |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Andy Sellars joined the pitching session at the Semi Ventures forum, hosted by the Royal Society. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/andygsellars_compound-semiconductor-quantum-activity-7208884512821276... |
| Description | Graham Reed panellist at Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association Summit 24 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA) Annual Summit on 18 September was another significant part of the week's events. With the theme "Synergizing Silicon: Pioneering the Future with AI and Quantum Technologies," the summit featured a range of expert speakers and special guests. Professor Reed joined other experts in exploring the convergence of AI, quantum computing, and semiconductor technologies. The summit began with an opening address by SSIA Executive Director Ang Wee Seng, followed by a keynote speech from UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Catherine West. In her address, Catherine West emphasised the UK government's commitment to advancing semiconductor research, especially in areas such as AI, quantum technologies, and silicon photonics. "With the world's semiconductor chip market expected to double in size within the next 10 years, the UK would be foolish not to be investing in this area. And that is why we are working to boost our strengths in everything from chip design and new material semiconductors, to silicon photonics and advanced packaging" she said. West also highlighted how this technology has the potential to revolutionise medicine, mitigate climate crisis and even defend our democracies against cyber-attack. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Hitachi visit September 2024 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Callum hosted a group of 4 representatives from Hitachi to demonstrate C-PIC and wider silicon photonics research activities. The result was a raised awareness of the potential solutions offered by silicon photonics and of the expertise and facilities at Southampton, and available through C-PIC partners. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Introduction to Photonics for Year 8 Students |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | A lantern making workshop, run by Pearl John, Nikita Lack (ORC PG), and David Adeyemo (P&A UG), funded by Cornerstone C-PiC and supported by Light Up Trails, ran on 24th October 2024 at the University of Southampton. The event was organised by Into University who brought Year 8 students - of mixed abilities - from Oasis Academy Lord's Hill School to the university for enrichment activities. The workshop introduced pupils to Photonics and aimed to spark pupils' interest in continuing to study Physics. The workshop met its objectives and learning outcomes: students' awareness of photonics increased by 55%; 82% of the students were able to define Photonics as relating to either the science or technology of light; and 64% of pupils were able to give either 2 (46%) or 3 (18%) examples of applications of photonics (although there was some confusion as to the difference between science - and technology as there were several responses giving examples of the electromagnetic spectrum rather than a technological application. The workshop was enjoyed by participants, with 9/11 (81%) giving an enjoyment rating of 4/5 and higher. In answer to the question on what they found the most interesting aspect of the workshop, pupils answered applications including lasers, waveguides and optical communication. Responses to the question on whether they would like to learn more about photonics were mixed, with 91% saying 'yes' (36%) or 'unsure' (55%) - and only 9% 'no'. This may imply that while the workshop piqued curiosity for some, others may need more engaging or relatable content to build sustained interest. Students also may not have understood that they would learn more about photonics through studying physics. Verbal feedback from organisers confirmed that making lanterns/ having a hands-on-activity was much appreciated by the students, teacher and student ambassadors. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Keynote at Pop4 4th International Conference on Photonics and Optoelectronics Packaging |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Tom Carnay gave the keynote, an introduction to CORNERSTONE, at pop4 conference, organised by IMAPS-UK, in partnership with the Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster (THTC) and South Devon College. The delegates were those involved with design of systems, development of components as well as end-users. The talk sparked discussion and raised awareness of the support and facilities available through CORNERSTONE. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Light Up Trails public outreach |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Staff and students from the School of Physics and Astronomy and the Cornerstone Photonics Innovation Centre (C-PIC) had the opportunity to ignite the imaginations of future physicists during the Christmas light art trail at the Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens at Christmas event on 27th, 28th, and 30th November 2024. In collaboration with the University of Southampton's photonics innovation centre, CORNERSTONE, the event highlighted the scientific principles underpinning the artistic displays. University staff and students engaged with visitors, explaining the physics and optical engineering behind the installations. This partnership aimed to inspire young attendees to consider careers in science and technology. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.cornerstone.sotonfab.co.uk/light-up-trail/ |
| Description | Making R&D Matter to More People - panel discussion |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Andy Sellars participated in a panel discussion at the CaSE conference 'Making R&D Matter to More People' on 11 Sep 2024. The event included the Secretary of State, who Andy had the opportunity to meet. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.sciencecampaign.org.uk/analysis-and-publications/detail/making-rd-matter-more-to-governm... |
| Description | Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy visit to the cleanrooms |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Following the announcement of the IKC grant, Saqib Bhatti, the Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy, paid a visit to the University of Southampton. During his tour of the Zepler Cleanrooms, he expressed his thoughts, stating: "This investment marks a crucial step in advancing our ambitions for the semiconductor industry, with these centres helping bring new technologies to market in areas like net zero and AI, rooting them right here in the UK." He added: "This isn't just about fostering growth and creating high-skilled jobs, it's about positioning the UK as a hub of global innovation, setting the stage for breakthroughs that have worldwide impact." |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.orc.soton.ac.uk/news/7151 |
| Description | OECD Semiconductor Group roundtable and reception |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Andy Sellars represented the UK at the OECD Semiconductor Group roundtable, September 2024. The event was followed by a reception at the FCDO. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Observer Research Foundation - Deep Tech Network panel members |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Andy Sellars was invited to participate in 'Kick Off Interventions', as part of the Building Bridges in Deep Tech session of the Inaugural Deep Tech Network event. The network will bring together representatives from government, startups, big tech, industry, institutional investors, and practitioners from like-minded countries who will have the opportunity to discuss how responsible deep tech collaboration can be fostered and scaled up to drive innovation and tackle shared challenges. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.orfonline.org/event/deep-tech-network-delivering-responsible-deep-tech-collaboration |
| Description | PIC Bootcamp |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Practical training for people who need to work on PICs, either design, fabricate or package devices and have had limited prior exposure. Participants took away a base understanding of design and simulation, fabrication, testing, and packaging, and made their own PIC device. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.picbootcamp.co.uk/ |
| Description | Panel session at inaugural Oxford Uni conference on semiconductors |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Andy Sellars was a panel member, chaired by Lord Willetts, discussing semiconductors for AI, at the inaugural Oxford Semiconductor Conference. The conference was organised by Adeel Hussain and Tommy Hall and sponsored by National Taiwan University. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/andygsellars_semiconductors-ai-photonics-activity-7242072383426052096... |
| Description | PhotonHub Experience Centre course - build your own thermo-optic modulator |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | In the month of November, CORNERSTONE welcomed participants from diverse industries to its three-day PhotonHub Experience Centre course: Silicon Photonics - Build Your Own Thermo-Optic Modulator. Hosted at the University of Southampton, this immersive event introduced both beginners and experienced professionals to the intricate world of silicon photonics fabrication. Designed to teach the principles of silicon photonics while offering hands-on experience, the course proved to be a transformative journey for all attendees. "Walking into the cleanroom and working on these processes myself was incredible," said Qi Tang, one of the attendees. "The CORNERSTONE team was so open and supportive, answering every question in detail and guiding us through tutorials. Seeing the tools in action and understanding the tolerances involved has given me a new perspective on how photonics devices are brought to life." "I found the experience incredibly valuable," shared James Banyard, another participant. "Seeing the process up close and step-by-step really reinforced the fabrication concepts that were presented. Talking with the experienced technicians and engineers added depth and insight that you just can't get from online resources." "The fabrication support CORNERSTONE offers is truly powerful and invaluable," Qi Tang reflected. "I can already see how what I've learned here will help bring my photonics ideas into production." The highlight of the course? Each participant left with their own fabricated silicon photonics chip-a tangible reminder of what they'd accomplished. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Raising awareness about photonics |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | The launch event held at the House of Lords on 12th February 2025 successfully raised national awareness about the significance of photonics technology among government officials. The event featured a talk by Lord Tony Sewell, highlighted that the UK has a strong legacy in scientific and industrial advancements, but now is the time to , , . This event led by a follow up from Lord Tony on further engagement. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/cornerstonesp_yesterday-we-had-the-honor-of-launching-activity-729583... |
| Description | Raising awareness about photonics among MPs, talk of Prof Graham with Darren Paffey MP during the launch event |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Raising awareness about photonics among MPs, talk of Prof Graham with Darren Paffey MP. This engagement led to further follow up. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/cornerstonesp_yesterday-we-had-the-honor-of-launching-activity-729583... |
| Description | Raising awareness about photonics among MPs, talk of Prof Graham with Steve Race MP |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Raised awareness about the importance of photonics technology |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/cornerstonesp_yesterday-we-had-the-honor-of-launching-activity-729583... |
| Description | Raising awareness about photonics, talk of Prof Graham with Dr Dave Smith, National Technology Adviser |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Raising awareness about photonics among within government, talk of Prof Graham with Dr Dave Smith, National Technology Adviser. The launch event held at the House of Lords on 12th February 2025 successfully raised national awareness about the significance of photonics technology among government officials. The event featured a talk by Dr Dave Smith, emphasising the critical role of photonics in technological advancement. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/cornerstonesp_yesterday-we-had-the-honor-of-launching-activity-729583... |
| Description | STEMM Heros Day |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Light workshop for 220 primary pupils and 7 teachers |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Silicon Catalyst reception hosted by C-PIC |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | C-PIC hosted an event for 60 representatives from UK industry as part of the Silicon Catalyst, the only incubator and accelerator focused on the Global Semiconductor Industry. Professor Graham Reed gave a presentation on C-PIC support. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Tech UK panel member |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Andy Sellars participated in discussions on the UK's position in the global semiconductor industry, joining a panel expertly chaired by Laura Foster, techUK, highlighting UK strengths in design/IP, R&D and compound semiconductors. The semiconductor session complemented earlier sessions discussing quantum and AI, where the UK has built an enviable lead (globally No.2 in quantum, No.3 in AI). In the opening keynote, Lord Vallance highlighted the need for funds to scale-up UK tech and accelerate adoption for the benefit of the UK economy and society. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/andygsellars_semiconductor-startup-strategy-activity-7261664058880282... |
| Description | Tom Carnay presentation at TechUK semiconductor scale up roundtable |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Tom Carnay represented C-PIC at the TechUK Semiconductor Scale Up roundtable, 'Semiconductors - Navigating Growth Challenges', with key players in the UK industry to discuss the biggest challenges facing semiconductor scale-ups in the UK. This event brought together leaders in the Semiconductor ecosystem, with expertise in scaleups, public and private investment, skills, and academia. As a leading voice for the UK Semiconductor industry, techUK will be using the learnings and insights from the session to inform their upcoming Semiconductor Policy Paper. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.techuk.org/resource/event-round-up-semiconductor-scaleups-roundtable-navigating-growth-c... |
| Description | UK semiconductor delegation to Singapore |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Professor Graham Reed, was part of an intensive week-long UK semiconductor delegation visit to Singapore, aimed at strengthening ties between the UK and Singapore Semiconductor technology sector. The event, organised by the Science and Innovation Network (SIN) team at the British High Commission in Singapore, took place from 16-20 September 2024 and featured a series of key events aimed at fostering collaboration and exploring opportunities between the UK and Singapore in this critical technology. Key highlights of the delegation included in-depth discussions on the UK, Singapore and regional semiconductor ecosystems and exploring bilateral opportunities and challenges faced by the industry. The delegation's priority moments included an inaugural UK-Singapore Semiconductor Workshop and participation in the Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (Singapore's largest semiconductor industry event) Annual Summit. Other touchpoints on the agenda included a visit to Nanyang Technological University (NTU) to tour the School of Science and Technology and School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, a session with Enterprise SG and clean room and lab visits at Singapore's A*STAR facilities. Delegates were also invited to a dinner hosted by the Deputy Trade Commissioner for Southeast Asia, Rhiannon Harries, which featured in-depth discussions on challenges and opportunities, as well as the future of the semiconductor sector. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | UKTIN panel discussion |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Andy Sellars chaired the UKTIN investment panel at the British Medical Association. When asked "what is your message to the incoming Government", there was consensus: - Open the capital flows - Back hard-tech and deep-tech - Avoid backing too many 'winners' |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.setsquared.co.uk/telecoms-commercialisation-economics-conference-what-does-the-future-of... |
| Description | Winchester Teachers' Festival of Physics |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | 35 school teachers attended two photonics workshops, which focused on introducing photonics into the classroom for different age groups. There was also a stand in the event exhibition which engaged teachers and sparked ideas for teaching practice and raised awareness of photonics. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | ePIXfab 9th Summer School 2024 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | 5-day hands on silicon photonics summer school tailored for both industrial and academic participants. Participants increased awareness and practical knowledge of silicon photonics, ranging from fundamentals to the latest developments in the science and technology of Silicon PIC design, fabrication, assembly and testing. Funding was also provided was 10 x students from underrepresented groups to attend. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.cornerstone.sotonfab.co.uk/epixfab-silicon-photonics-summer-school/ |