UK University Launches Research Center

The Photon Science Institute, a £40 million facility for research on light and laser technologies, has been launched by the University of Manchester in the UK, with support from the Northwest Regional Development Agency. Also a teaching center, the institute has a projected annual research income of £5 million and more than 30 full-time academic staff members.

Research will focus on the development and application of the technology in the medical, pharmaceutical, and life and physical sciences sectors. Projects will center on such subjects as optical materials and noninvasive medical technologies. Current studies involve the use of microtweezers to manipulate microparticles such as biological cells.

The institute, which will include more than £15 million worth of laser equipment, will be housed in a £55 million university building, which is scheduled for completion in 2007. A full-time master’s degree in photon science will be offered, starting in October.