International conference on quantum technologies and optics concludes at YSU

Optical science and quantum technologies represent key branches of contemporary physics, with applications in quantum communication, computation, and sensor systems. International collaboration in these fields plays a crucial role in facilitating knowledge exchange, promoting innovation and interdisciplinary research.

Recognizing the high level of expertise and scientific potential in optics and quantum physics in both Germany and Armenia, the international WE-Heraeus Seminar was also organized as part of the conference. This seminar provided an exceptional opportunity for scientists from both countries to establish effective collaborations and undertake joint research.

Margarit Hakobyan, Junior Researcher in the Optoelectronics and Photonics Laboratory at YSU Institute of Physics, Group Leader of the Remote Laboratory for Liquid Crystals for Advanced Life Sciences and Sensing (Imaging), and a member of the conference’s organizing committee, noted that Armenia has made significant contributions to optical and quantum research, particularly in the development of theoretical physics, laser technologies, and photonics. 

"This seminar aimed to promote scientific cooperation, strengthen academic ties, and create a platform to discuss the latest fundamental and applied developments in optics, with special emphasis on quantum technologies," she emphasized.

The researcher noted that the WE-Heraeus Seminar, held within the framework of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, was a crucial initiative that will contribute to establishing partnership ties between leading research groups in Germany and Armenia.

The "Optics and Its Applications in Quantum Technologies" conference has been held annually since 2011. This year’s event took place within the framework of the Armenian-German WE-Heraeus collaboration. The opening ceremony was held on September 26 at the A. I. Alikhanyan National Science Laboratory (Yerevan Physics Institute), followed by sessions at Yerevan State University and the Institute for Applied Problems of Physics of the Armenian National Academy of Sciences. The conference concluded on September 30 at YSU.

Among the participants of the five-day event were distinguished scientists from numerous international institutions. They presented their research findings, which were followed by active discussions and question-and-answer sessions.

This conference was especially significant for young scientists, offering them inspiration and the opportunity to present their work, share experiences, discuss pressing issues, and develop new ideas, thereby contributing to the ongoing advancement of the field.

Professor David Blaschke, a German scientist from the University of Wroclaw (Poland) and co-organizer of the conference, pointed out that although the seminar was mainly dedicated to optics and its applications, it also included technological components.

"I am proud to note that this was a unique event of its kind, as we succeeded in obtaining sponsorship and support from the German Wilhelm and Else Heraeus Foundation. Recently, this foundation launched a program for binational seminars, and within this program, we proposed to hold this scientific event organized jointly by Germany and Armenia," the professor remarked.

Referring to the cooperation with Yerevan State University, Professor Blaschke stated that he has long-standing ties with the university. Part of his academic work is connected with the University of Rostock, where he completed both his PhD and habilitation. According to him, the University of Rostock has collaborated with YSU since 1986 through student and lecturer exchange programs. Through this collaboration, Professor Blaschke has visited YSU several times and has also invited YSU scientists to Rostock to implement joint projects and conduct research.

This seminar brought together not only leading scientists from Armenia but also scholars from Germany, Italy, the United States, Canada, and several other countries.