Research
Ultra-compact, ultra-great
Readers of ACS Nano may have already heard about the new optical switch developed by researchers from ITMO and POSTECH (South Korea). The nifty miniature piece of tech is a promising new element for optical computing. Utilizing the promising metamaterial class that are monolayer semiconductors, the invention is described as ultra-efficient and easy to manufacture.
Microfluidics to the rescue
Researchers at ITMO’s Institute of Laser Technologies have a reason to be excited: a recent study of theirs has culminated in a success. Their latest development is an uncomplicated method of producing microfluidic structures on silica surfaces. The resulting products can be used in biomedical research and medical diagnostics of critical diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
Academia
New Master’s in photonics
A brand-new educational program at ITMO is ready to take on the future. Having built a curriculum that combines applied photonics with quantum science, femtotechnologies, and even art, its creators hope to train specialists for the new frontier of computing – one where electronics will give way to optical elements. And with four specializations to choose from, students will enjoy a greater freedom in studies and career-building.
Credit: Tim Gouw (@punttim)via Unsplash
Say no to burnout
Among the possible issues one can face in academia, burnout may in fact be one of the most dangerous. ITMO.NEWS recently examined the issue to find out what causes it, how it manifests itself, and what a leader can do to protect themselves and their charges from this far-too-common affliction.
Artificial intelligence
As neural networks penetrate more spheres of human activity, AI becomes an increasingly polarizing subject. But one thing is clear: it’s here to stay. Not one, but two public discussions at ITMO recently tackled the topic:
First, experts from academia and business discussed the prospects of AI and its effects on the domestic and international labor market. Does AI truly have what it takes to leave us jobless or will the human element always be a necessity?
And just a few days later, another talk took on an equally important subject: the effects of AI on academia. More specifically – the benefits that sophisticated algorithms can offer to students and teachers. The examples ranged from using ChatGPT to build fictional realms to asking it for a fresh perspective on human-friendly design.
