RIT Associate Professor Jie Qiao elected Optica fellow

Jie Qiao, an associate professor in Rochester Institute of Technology’s Chester F. Carlson Center for Imaging Science, was elected to the 2023 Fellow Class of the Optica Society (formerly OSA) by the society’s board of directors. Optica is the preeminent professional society in the field of optics and photonics, with 22,000 members from 180 countries and 41 Nobel Laureates in its ranks.  

Qiao is one of 109 members from 24 countries elected to the Society’s 2023 Fellow Class. Fellows are Optica members who have served with distinction in the advancement of optics and photonics. Qiao “is being honored specifically for advancing professional networks for women in optics and extensive volunteer work for Optica.” She joins a distinguished group of leaders who are helping to advance the field optics and photonics.

Qiao develops ultrafast laser systems and methods that can be used to fabricate integrated photonic circuits and advanced optical components. Her patent titled, “Method and System for Ultrafast Laser-based Material Removal, Figuring and Polishing,” was issued and licensed in August this year. Qiao is the founder and chair of WiSTEE Connect, a global association to help advance the career of women in science, technology, and engineering, and entrepreneurship. Earlier this year, she received a prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award to advance ultrafast laser material processing technology at the University of Bordeaux in France.

“As a scientist working at the intersection of lasers, photonics, and imaging, I was thrilled when I learned that my contribution to optics and photonics had been recognized as a distinction,” said Qiao. “It is a proud moment of reflection on my own scientific and professional pursuits and contributions. I am especially proud that I have been able to contribute to both science and community-building aspects of the optics and photonics field: advancing optical and photonic fabrications through ultrafast laser polishing and structuring and advancing the professional network of women in optics through WiSTEE Connect, an association I created and have engaged hundreds of women in optics around the globe.”

For more information about the 2023 class of fellows, go to the Optica website.