BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The University at Buffalo has established a new, multidisciplinary institute to conduct research designed to harness the power of light in a broad spectrum of applications and potential products, ranging from telecommunications to cancer therapy.
The Institute for Lasers, Photonics and Biophotonics, which will capitalize on synergies between UB and Western New York industry and research and medical institutions, was announced today (Nov. 23, 1999) by David Triggle, Ph.D., SUNY Distinguished Professor and UB provost.
The institute is headed by Executive Director Paras Prasad, Ph.D., SUNY Distinguished Professor in the departments of Chemistry and Physics in the UB College of Arts and Sciences, and Samuel P. Capen Chair in the Department of Chemistry.
The idea is to foster economic growth in Western New York by tapping into UB's strengths in lasers, photonics and biotechnology. Photonics is the information-processing counterpart of electronics, using photons instead of electrons to process information and biotechnology.
"UB and Western New York enjoy a unique set of resources, both locally and across the border in Canada, which has made it possible for us to take an early lead in lasers, photonics and biophotonics research by creating a world-class institute in these fields," said Triggle.
He said the institute's goals are to conduct research and development on new materials and technologies leading to technology transfer, to provide education and industrial training to develop a skilled workforce and to offer a world-class facility for consulting and testing.
The Institute for Lasers, Photonics and Biophotonics will serve as the focal point of a photonics corridor that is envisioned to encompass institutions and firms in Western New York and in nearby Ontario.
"This institute is a stellar example of the highly productive, interdisciplinary partnerships that UB is fostering with
businesses, industries and resea
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Contact: Ellen Goldbaum
goldbaum@buffalo.edu
716-645-5000 ex 1415
University at Buffalo
22-Nov-1999