Research

Optical computing holds a lot of promise – on the condition that it can be made cost-efficient and practical. Aiming to bring that scenario a step closer to reality, a group of researchers from ITMO and Peking University have shown off a prototype optical memory component that operates in multiple optical states to achieve high-speed data processing. Now, the scientists plan to develop their tech further and make it scalable for use in complex architectures.

Read more: Compact Silicon Chip by ITMO and PKU Revolutionizes Optical Memory

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Despite how ubiquitous LLMs might seem these days, there are still plenty of niches left unfilled – such as in the case of less-widespread (or less prioritized) languages. At a new laboratory launched by ITMO and MWS AI, scientists will develop new ways to train neural networks, in addition to making speech synthesis and recognition models available in languages such as Arabic and Kazakh.

Read more: ITMO and MWS AI Open Laboratory for Acceleration of Neural Networks and Development of Language AI Models

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Offline Robots and Automated Kitchens: ITMO Researcher Vladislav Gromov on New Challenges for Robotics

University

With a new leader at its helm, ITMO’s Faculty of Biotechnologies is getting a do-over. ITMO NEWS recently sat down with Elena Koshel, PhD, to talk about her plans for making the department into an environment for full-cycle development of biotechnologies – from idea to research to product – and the part played in that process both by students and industrial partners.

Read more: Full-Cycle Development: The Future of ITMO’s Faculty of Biotechnologies

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Chem & Bio Engineering: New Faculty Launches at ITMO University

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We’re a third of the way into summer – which means, as always, that ITMO University is now receiving applications for the 2026/2027 academic year. This time, the curricula are heavy on AI: besides multiple educational programs focused on AI development, management, or cybersecurity, there are also university-wide modules that seek to educate every student, regardless of their chosen major, on pitfalls and advantages of AI technologies.

Read more: AI-Proof Education: ITMO Begins Accepting Application for 2026 Admissions Season

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New Master’s Track: ITMO to Train Health Data Engineers and Analysts