The IEEE Photonics Conference 2024, taking place in the historic city of Rome, Italy, promises an engaging lineup of special events and a dynamic Sunday program. This year’s conference not only highlights the latest advancements in photonics but also fosters networking opportunities and collaborative discussions among experts and newcomers alike.
A standout feature of the Sunday program is the insightful session titled “An Outlook on Future Optical Network Architecture and Photonic Technologies for the Internet.” This session will explore the transformative impact of optical fibers on Internet architecture, a journey that began almost fifty years ago. Participants will learn about recent advancements in optical networking, developed within Italy’s largest communications research program, RESTART (research and innovation on future telecommunications systems and networks). Funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), RESTART aims to enhance Italy’s telecommunications capabilities. Organized by Piero Castoldi from Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, the session will highlight key research outcomes, focusing on photonic integration technologies, capacity scaling in optical communications, novel transmission techniques, and innovative network monitoring and security approaches.
Following this, the program features a session on “Emerging Applications of Photonic Technologies in Critical Areas Across the Global Fiber-Optic Network.” This session will delve into cutting-edge applications of photonics beyond traditional telecom, showcasing how today’s deployed telecom fiber is being utilized for environmental research. Attendees will discover innovations such as optical fibers used in whale monitoring and wind measurements, providing crucial data for marine and atmospheric studies. Organized by Mikael Mazur from Nokia Bell Labs and Cristian Antonelli from the University of L’Aquila, this session will also cover advancements in optical clocks and ultra-stable optical frequency transfer, pushing the boundaries of precision timekeeping and metrology.
Additionally, the program will celebrate the 150th anniversary of Guglielmo Marconi’s birth with a special session titled “From Wireless Telegraphy to Free Space Communications.” This session, organized by Antigone Marino, President of the IEEE Photonics Society Italy Chapter, aims to honor Marconi’s legacy and the pivotal role he played in telecommunications. Participants will reflect on over a century of scientific advancements in the field, with discussions on how photonics has revolutionized our ability to connect. Speakers include Barbara Valotti from Fondazione Marconi and Stefano Selleri from the University of Florence.
Attendees are also invited to join the “Hack Your Research! Tools and Tricks for Today’s Telecommunications Techies,” a hands-on session that encourages participants to enhance their productivity with powerful techniques and tools used by expert researchers. Organized by a team from various universities and Nokia Bell Labs, this event will feature interactive demos of free and open-source software aimed at simplifying research tasks. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from each other and share best practices in a relaxed environment, fostering creativity and collaboration.
To conclude the Sunday program, attendees will gather for a lively reception, creating a dynamic space for everyone to connect as the conference week begins. The reception will include a dedicated poster session, where student researchers can present their latest findings and innovations. This interactive setting fosters dialogue and encourages feedback, allowing participants to share their work and gain valuable insights.
On the following day, attendees are invited to visit the IEEE Member Appreciation Lounge. This all-day event is the perfect opportunity to grab a snack, connect with peers, and participate in insightful fireside chats on professional development topics. Attendees can engage with Society leaders, including the President and Vice President of Membership, and discover exciting volunteer opportunities. A “Community Mission Meetup” will encourage networking and collaboration on ways to strengthen the mission of “advancing technology for humanity.” Throughout the day, a professional photographer will be available in the lounge to capture complimentary headshots, enhancing attendees’ careers and social profiles on a first-come, first-served basis.
Later in the week, the IEEE Young Professionals Luncheon will provide a platform for engaging discussions on social entrepreneurship, climate action, and essential skills development, targeting members within 15 years of their first degree. Hosted by Sinan Genc, Ph.D., AVP of Young Professionals, this session will include hands-on activities and a complimentary lunch. It aims to equip participants with effective strategies for continuous learning and inspire them to develop technology that creates a positive impact on the world. The luncheon is open to those who RSVP through conference registration, particularly those involved in the Mentor Match program.
In summary, the IEEE Photonics Conference 2024 in Rome offers a unique blend of outreach and education events as well as a comprehensive Sunday program that emphasizes innovation in optical networking and photonics applications. With its focus on cutting-edge research, networking opportunities, and a celebration of telecommunications history, this conference is poised to be an inspiring and productive experience for all participants! We hope to see you there!
