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RIT Photonics
The Future Photon Initiative (FPI) develops photonic devices in pursuit of answers to grand questions, leveraging efforts of existing RIT research groups who develop technology for the generation, transmission, manipulation, absorption, and detection of photons.
FPI cross-disciplinary teams collaborate with external university groups, industry, and national laboratories to develop and commercialize new photonic device technology. Potential markets include solar energy, biophotonics, high performance imaging, astrophysics, communication, electronics, quantum information, and computing. Eleven groups across the RIT campus make up FPI: Center for Detectors, Integrated Photonics Group, Nanolithography Research Lab, NanoPower Research Labs, Photonic Systems Lab, Photonics and Optics Workforce Education Research Project, Semiconductor Nanofabrication Laboratory, and the Simone Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
55
ongoing grants in 2025
$10.3M
ongoing grant funding in 2025
16
researchers who have won $1 million or more in research funding since 2000
14
new grants in 2025
$2.9M
new grant funding in 2025
50+
funded research students
News
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August 25, 2026
RIT part of NSF-funded Quantum Leap Challenge Institute
RIT is building its eminence in quantum research as part of a $37.5 million National Science Foundation (NSF) award for large-scale interdisciplinary research projects known as Quantum Leap Challenge Institutes.
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July 16, 2026
RIT joins laser technology hub
PIC Magazine highlights RIT's role in the newly funded STELLAR initiative, emphasizing the university's expertise in photonic integrated circuits, semiconductor fabrication, optical manufacturing, and photonics education to advance next-generation laser technologies.
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July 15, 2026
Here's what the UR-led tech hub could mean for Rochester, Finger Lakes
WXXI News spotlights RIT's participation in the NSF-funded STELLAR initiative, a collaborative effort to position the Rochester region as a national leader in laser technologies and advanced manufacturing.
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July 15, 2026
University of Rochester lands $15M for laser research expansion
WROC-TV highlights a regional coalition selected by the National Science Foundation to establish STELLAR, a national hub for laser innovation and workforce development. RIT is a key partner in the coalition.
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Quantum Activities at RIT
Future Photon Initiative Brochure
Students: Join the Future Photon Initiative
- The Future Photon Initiative and Center for Detectors are hiring:
- Student Lab Assistants (ID 3933)
- Lab Programming Assistants (ID 23143)
- Executive Assistants (ID 23131)
- Software Engineers (ID 24545)
Search for the job IDs on RIT Career Connect for more information. Co-op opportunities available.
NOVA NEXUS: Photonics, Astrophysics, and Quantum Technologies for Scientific Discovery
This Vertically Integrated Project (VIP) engages undergraduate students in multidisciplinary research at the intersection of photonics, astrophysics, and quantum technologies. Aligned with the missions of several federal agencies, including NASA, NSF, and DoD, the project focuses on developing innovative photonic devices, quantum information system technologies, and advanced detectors for applications in space exploration, communication, and sensing. Students will gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge research, contributing to advancements in photonics and quantum technologies and innovation.
Nova Nexus Webpage: Information and Application Instructions