After receiving his passport with the approved VISA around noon, he hurried to the airport to catch his 4:35 pm flight. On the way, his colleagues delivered his luggage, dropped him off at the airport, and wished him a safe and pleasant journey. After completing check-in and security procedures, he settled in to wait for the flight announcement. The tense moments leading up to the last-minute VISA approval were behind him, and he felt a wave of relief. As the plane ascended, he gazed out at the breathtaking clouds over the Arabian Sea. In that moment, he was certain he would finally attend the IEEE Photonics Conference (IPC) 2024 in Rome, Italy. It was an emotional milestone, as attending this conference had long been a dream of his.
This is my story! My name is Mayur Sathe, and I am a PhD student at the International School of Photonics, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kerala, India. I am an active member of the IEEE Kerala Section Chapter, one of the largest chapters of the IEEE, as well as a member of the IEEE Photonics Society Kerala Chapter, which has recently been nominated as the “Outstanding Small Chapter 2024” by the IEEE Kerala Section. It is well known that the IEEE is world’s largest professional association, dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. Through influential publications, conferences, technology standards, and educational initiatives, IEEE and its members inspire global innovation. The IEEE Photonics Society, a key Society within the IEEE, organizes its flagship event, the IEEE Photonics Conference (IPC), annually at various locations. The conference covers a broad range of photonics topics, featuring plenary sessions, invited talks, panel discussions, tutorials, and special symposia.
Attending IPC offers a unique opportunity to witness cutting-edge research in photonics on a global scale. It’s also an excellent chance to network with distinguished speakers and leaders in the field. This event provides invaluable insights into the latest research, allowing us to engage directly with renowned experts. I was particularly inspired by IEEE’s financial support to encourage active participation from its members. This year, I was honoured to receive a travel grant under the Students & Young Professionals category to attend IPC 2024, covering my travel expenses.
My flight was a connecting journey from Kochi to Abu Dhabi, and then from Abu Dhabi to Rome. As I passed through Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, one of the most beautiful airports in the world, I felt deeply grateful to the IPC 2024 organizers, as this marked my first international trip. I captured the entire journey on my phone. Upon landing at Leonardo da Vinci – Fiumicino International Airport in Rome, I met Prof. Deepa Venkitesh from IIT Madras and her team, who were also attending IPC 2024.
I then took a train to Roma Termini, as my accommodation was about 2 km away. Unfortunately, there was a strike affecting both state transportation and the metro, leaving me with only the option to rent a taxi. However, since the distance was short and I wanted to take in the sights of Rome, I decided to walk to the hotel. I had booked a place in the city centre to fully experience the vibrant life of Rome.
On the first day, 10 November 2024, I arrived at the venue, Cardo Roma, Autograph Collection. At the registration desk, I had the pleasure of meeting staff, who were both humble and helpful. After completing the registration process, I attended my first session. As I looked down at my registration badge, I felt an overwhelming sense of happiness and pride, knowing I was finally participating in my first international conference abroad.
The first day of IPC 2024 was dedicated to the Sunday Program, which introduced forums and panels. This year’s sessions included “Future Optical Network Architecture and Photonic Technologies for the Internet,” focusing on recent advancements in optical networks and photonic technologies, developed through Italy’s RESTART national research program and funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP). The second session, “Emerging Applications of Photonic Technologies in Critical Areas Across the Global Fiber-Optic Network,” explored the latest innovations, research, and practical applications in key areas of the field.
Next was the session titled “From Wireless Telegraphy to Free Space Communications: Celebrating 150 Years Since Marconi’s Birth.” This program honoured Marconi’s life and legacy, and it was truly inspiring to learn how one researcher could profoundly impact human history in such a way. Marconi’s contributions to wireless communication and his entrepreneurial spirit have shaped the way we live today. Later, I had the opportunity to view the original instruments he used for the first-ever wireless communication in a museum.
In the evening, I attended the “Hack Your Research! Tools and Tricks for Today’s Telecommunications Techies” session, where the latest tools and technologies were showcased. It was an incredible experience to be part of it. The day concluded with a poster session, offering a great opportunity to engage with researchers and discuss their work. The posters presented fascinating research in a clear and accessible way.
On the second day, the conference officially kicked off with technical sessions. The venue was so large that eight sessions were held simultaneously. After the morning sessions, there was a tea break, during which I had the chance to reconnect with Prof. Deepa Venkitesh. During our conversation, I mentioned how her visionary research constantly inspires me, as she always stays up to date with new technologies. She responded with a powerful statement: “Mayur, if you’re not updated in the research field, you’re outdated, and your research loses value. So, we must keep it current.” That was a truly motivational moment that I will carry with me.
I attended a session titled “Photonics Industry Focus: Photonic Opportunities – European Government Organizations,” which highlighted the strategic research and innovation funding opportunities available for the photonics sector, as well as key ongoing initiatives supported by the European Government. It was an incredibly insightful session, providing valuable knowledge about current and future opportunities in photonics. The session concluded with a panel discussion, which was equally informative. Later, I had the opportunity to meet Roberta Ramponi, one of the panelists, and we discussed the need for a global platform for research and development in photonics—one that includes everyone, regardless of nationality, race, or religion.
During the “STEM Outreach Ambassador Meetup,” the focus was on the importance of social identity in STEM and breaking down language barriers to foster an inclusive and diverse community where everyone can thrive. The session included a group discussion about the challenges we encountered while organizing various activities, how we addressed them, and how the IEEE Photonics Society could assist in overcoming these issues to facilitate smoother event execution.
At the end of the discussion, the organizer gave a few people from each group the opportunity to speak. I took the chance to share my thoughts and suggested creating “a video series showcasing IEEE’s impact on the career growth of its members, emphasizing how role modeling can have a transformative influence on their personal and professional development.” I explained how such a resource could help expand IEEE membership and demonstrate its global impact.
I also had the pleasure of meeting Lauren Mecum-Smith, Senior Manager of Strategic Programs, and Lisa Sandt, Membership & Chapter Administrator at IEEE Photonics, whom I had previously communicated with via email. Both were incredibly welcoming. Additionally, I met Allan Koech, a Global Strategy Representative and a travel grantee like me. During our conversation, I learned a great deal from him and was impressed by how he is using his skills and potential to contribute to the Society in Kenya.
I made new friends at the conference, including Dr. Pritha Dey, Dr. Partha Mondal, Debaleena Majumder, and Dr. Rajib Ratan Ghosh. It was a pleasure spending time with them. The day ended with the IEEE Photonics Society Banquet, where we savoured delicious Italian cuisine. Overall, it was a rewarding day, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
On the third day, 12 November 2024, I attended the highly anticipated talk by Dr. Federico Mellie, which was directly related to my research. I had the opportunity to discuss my work, ask questions, and received valuable feedback and guidance from him. Afterward, I participated in the “Future Thought Leaders Forum,” which aimed to offer a deeper insight into leadership opportunities within IEEE and how volunteering can help develop our skills while broadening our personal and professional networks.
During the forum, we discussed best practices, gained insights into IEEE governance, and explored the key skills needed for volunteer leadership success. One of the activities was a “Building a Tower of Cards” game, where each group member answered questions. It was both fun and engaging. Our team built one of the tallest tower, but unfortunately, we missed the required height and lost the competition. Nonetheless, it was a great experience working as a team where we respected and supported one another. Later, I had the pleasure of meeting Prof. Sushil Mujumdar from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in India. He was incredibly humble, and our conversation left me feeling inspired.
After the Plenary Session this day, where IEEE Photonics Society Awards Recipients were presented, there was the “Society President’s Reception”, which I was privileged to attend as a travel grantee. I got a chance to have a group photo with Prof. Perry Ping Shum, IEEE Photonics Society President (2024-2025). I met many people, and we had healthy discussions on various topics. We enjoyed the delicious Italian food as well as networking together.
On the fourth day, during a scheduled coffee break, I met Dr. Muhammad Hunain Memon from the University of Science and Technology of China, who was one of the 2024 Photonics Society Graduate Student Scholarship recipients. We had an engaging conversation on a variety of topics, including research, politics, future opportunities, and scholarships in the research field. I attended several sessions and particularly enjoyed Dr. Carlo Santini’s talk on a tunable biosensor. Afterward, I had the chance to meet him and discuss the similarities between our work. He was very impressed by the research activities at my institute, the International School of Photonics.
In the evening, there was another Plenary Session with award presentations. Both Prof. Chennupati Jagadish, AC, from the Australian National University, and Dr. Alexis Black Bjorlin, VP & GM at Nvidia, delivered outstanding talks on the role of photonics in shaping the future of technology. After the session, I had the privilege of meeting Prof. Jagadish, accompanied by Dr. Partha Mondal. He truly lived up to his reputation as a humble and visionary leader. Our conversation was filled with profound insights, and I walked away with valuable perspectives that will undoubtedly guide my research journey for years to come.
On the last day of the conference, November 14th, 2024, as I walked from the metro station to the venue, I couldn’t help but think, “This is the final day of the conference.” In that moment, memories of the past few days flooded my mind in quick succession. The conference had passed in the blink of an eye, yet it had left a lasting impact on me, filling me with both happiness and inspiration.
During one of the final coffee breaks, I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Abi Waqas and Dr. Rajib Ratan Ghosh. We had enriching discussions on a range of topics. Later, I attended sessions aligned with my research and reconnected with Prof. Deepa Venkitesh and her group. At lunch, I met Lauren Mecum-Smith and others once again. We reflected on the conference, and I shared the thought that had come to my mind earlier while walking to the venue. She explained that the IEEE Photonics Conference immerses you in a dynamic environment where you can learn, meet new people, and expand your networks. The constant flow of new information, ideas, and interactions with experts or peers keeps one mentally and emotionally engaged, making the days feel like they pass so quickly.
She also mentioned future volunteer opportunities available to me and others within my section as long as we choose to stay involved. I felt both happy and hopeful about the potential impact I could make within the photonics community. She then introduced me to Prof. Gabriella Bosco, the IEEE Photonics President-Elect, who had been honored with the “2024 IEEE Photonics Society Distinguished Service Award.” I was deeply inspired by her dedication to the IEEE Photonics Society and aspired to follow in her footsteps, dedicating my time to the meaningful activities she has championed throughout her impactful career.
At the end of the conference, there was a final plenary session that included the Post-Deadline Presentations and the Closing Ceremony. During the ceremony, the Best Student Paper and Best Student Poster Awards were presented. I was proud to see my friend, Debaleena Majumder, win 3rd prize in the Best Student Poster category. I felt both happy and proud of her accomplishment. Prof. Sushil Mujumdar, who was with me at the time, turned to me and said, “Mayur, you should present your work at the next conference.” I replied, “Yes, sir, I will try my best.” His words left me feeling inspired and encouraged, and seeing my friend’s success made me realize that it’s possible to achieve such recognition.
At the conclusion of IPC 2024, the location for the 2025 conference was revealed: Singapore. With that, IPC 2024 officially came to an end. I felt a wave of emotion, knowing that I had just experienced some of the most memorable days of my research journey. Prof. Sushil Mujumdar said, “Mayur, stay in touch, and see you at IPC 2025.” His words brought me joy and strengthened my determination to attend the next conference, eager to witness the beauty of photonics once again “above the clouds”.
After the conference, I spent a few extra days exploring the historic city of Rome, which felt like a gift given by IPC 2024. I visited iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Vatican City, while also indulging in delicious Italian cuisine. The entire experience was truly unforgettable and added even more value to my journey.
In conclusion, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the IEEE Photonics Society for this incredible opportunity to shape my research career. I would also like to extend special thanks to the IEEE Photonics staff for their unwavering support and assistance, and to the IPC 2024 organizers for making this event possible. My sincere appreciation goes to my supervisor, Prof. M. Kailasnath, and Prof. Pramod Gopinath, Chair of the IEEE Photonics Society Kerala Chapter, for their invaluable guidance. I am also deeply grateful to my beloved family, especially my brother Vishal, and my dear friends for their constant encouragement.
As a travel grantee through the IEEE Photonics Society Students and Young Professionals (SYP) initiative, I was honored to participate in this incredible event. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to represent the IEEE Kerala Section, the IEEE Photonics Society Kerala Chapter, and Cochin University of Science and Technology on such a prestigious global platform. The IEEE Photonics Conference was by far the best conference I have ever attended—it greatly enriched my knowledge and will have a lasting positive impact on my research journey
Featured photo caption: A peer and me with Dr. Muhammad Hunain Memon (center), a 2024 Photonics Society Graduate Student Scholarship recipient.
