Heriot-Watt University -Marcello Ferrera

Heriot-Watt University is a leading UK research-intensive institution with internationally recognised strengths in photonics and quantum technologies. Through the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences and the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, we deliver research excellence across integrated photonics, ultrafast and nonlinear optics, optical materials, metasurfaces, optical communications, sensing, and quantum photonics. Our unique value proposition combines fundamental science with device engineering, advanced modelling, and state-of-the-art experimental characterisation, enabling rapid translation from concept to demonstrator. We maintain specialist facilities supporting prototyping and system-level validation, and have a strong track record of high-impact publications, industrial partnerships, and technology transfer. Heriot-Watt is well positioned within UK critical technologies, contributing to national priorities in quantum, advanced semiconductors, secure communications, and enabling manufacturing technologies.