Dr Michal Lipson: Optica President 2023
ICFO SAB member begins term at the head of society for the optics and photonics community
Optica (formerly OSA), Advancing Optics and Photonics Worldwide, is the society dedicated to promoting the generation, application, archiving and dissemination of knowledge in the field. Founded in 1916, it is the leading organization for scientists, engineers, business professionals, students and others interested in the science of light. Optica’s renowned publications, meetings, online resources and in-person activities fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate scientific, technical and educational achievement.
Dr. Michal Lipson, Eugene Higgins Professor at Columbia University, USA and active member of ICFO’s Scientific Advisory Board, was elected by Optica members in 2021 to serve on the society’s Board of Directors in what is a four-year commitment, serving one year as vice president in 2021, followed by one year as president-elect in 2022, president in 2023 and past president in 2024.
“In the field of silicon photonics, Lipson is a pioneer whose work in tailoring the electro-optic properties of silicon and advancing research and development is world-renowned,” said Optica’s CEO Elizabeth Rogan upon Lipson’s election. “Her contributions to Optica and the optics and photonics community have been extraordinary and the society will continue to benefit from her serving in this key leadership role.”
As she begins her term as President, Lipson addressed the society members to lay out priorities while in office. “In looking at the coming year, I am struck by the substantial opportunities for moving optics and photonics forward, both in basic science and in bold new applications. I hope to focus on three areas this year that I view as particularly important. Those areas include fostering scientific communication, our ongoing efforts as an international, inclusive society, and building and expanding trust in science and scientific evidence.”