Scotland has been at the forefront of developments in optoelectronics since the late 19th century when researchers pioneered optical range finders. The Scottish tradition of optoelectronic excellence is carried on today by the 90 companies employing 4200 people and generating £800 million annually – 65 per cent of which comes from exports.
Optoelectronics in Scotland
The optoelectronics industry in Scotland is buoyant, with Scottish universities attracting more than 30 per cent of the UK Government's budget for research into the subject. When it comes to optoelectronics, Scotland is very strong academically, with the majority of its universities actively engaged with the industry.
More than 450 world-class researchers work in Scotland, and the country produces 50 per cent of all optoelectronics graduates. In Optoelectronics, Scottish researchers are 7th most quoted in the world and, GDP-based, are 3rd for registering patents.
Optoelectronics research and development in Scotland
Scotland's universities are at the forefront of photonics, with research carried out in displays, optical communications, sensing, imaging and lasers. Specific academic expertise includes:
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Institute of Photonics – a partnership between the University of Strathclyde, industry and Government, aiming to bridge the gap between academia and industry in photonics research and development.
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Thin Film Centre – a centre of excellence for the development of thin film innovation and technology. Work carried out relates to deposition processes, the design, fabrication and characterisation of products, and the dissemination of information about thin film applications.
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EPI Centre – based at the University of Abertay, this institute promotes interdisciplinary research, training and services in human-technology interaction for displays and communication.
Invest in the Scottish optoelectronics industry
Scotland's main commercial strengths lie in three high-value chains: communication, lasers and images, and sensors.
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Scotland has been a major player in the electronics industry for more than 50 years.
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The Alba Centre, Scottish Microelectronics Centre and Optocap – the £4 million design centre aiding the commercialisation of micro and optoelectronic research – all form part of the extensive infrastructure.
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Assistance for high-tech start-ups is available through initiatives such as the Proof of Concept Fund, the Scottish Co-investment Fund and the Intermediary Technology Institutes.
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A strong support network for the industry includes the Scottish Optoelectronics Association, launched in 1994 to stimulate the economic growth of the optoelectronics industry in Scotland.
Scottish Development International provides active support for the Scottish electronics sector
Contact SDI to discuss the range of services available to the optoelectronics industry, and all other electronics sectors in Scotland