The new year began with the 10th annual 2025 Optical Sciences Winter School running from January 7 - 10 at the Wyant College of Optical Sciences. More than 50 undergraduates from across the country attended. Students visited from institutions including the American University, Colgate Univ., Delaware State Univ., Illinois Weslyan Univ., Rochester Institute of Technology and many more!

Graduating students and their loved ones, along with Wyant College staff and faculty, gathered on Friday, Dec. 20 to celebrate the Wyant College of Optical Sciences' Winter Convocation. The intimate ceremony was followed by a light spread and cake in the Meinel 3rd floor lobby.

Two new staff members have joined the Wyant College of Optical Sciences! Lisa Kondrat is a new administrative associate and Mike Kelso is the new building operations coordinator. Welcome Lisa and Mike!

Students, Do you have an original research question you’d like to explore? 

This new initiative provides awards to undergraduates across all campus colleges for original, innovative student-generated research projects. 10-12 awardees per year will be competitively selected by a cross-campus multidisciplinary committee to receive $1,000-$1,500 each to pursue their research question with a faculty mentor of their choice. The award may be used for stipend/salary, travel, supplies, equipment, and other costs. Find the full details and how to apply here.

Dr. Derek Burrell, OSC alumnus 2023, was named the recipient of the 2024 Optical Group Doctoral Thesis Prize from the Institute of Physics (IOP). This prestigious award recognizes outstanding doctoral research defended in 2023 and highlights groundbreaking contributions to the field of optical science. Reflecting on the award, Derek expressed gratitude for the opportunities at OSC and the collaboration with his advisor, Ron Driggers, professor of optical sciences, with whom he continues to publish.