The University of Manchester and Novanta Inc. are proud to announce the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU), marking the beginning of a strategic partnership that aims to advance ruesearch and development in the field of photonics, laser technologies and beyond.
Laser Quantum is a University of Manchester spin out organisation, established in 1994 by three University of Manchester alumni Drs Alan Cox, Lawrie Gloster and Steve Lane. The business initially specialised in the design and manufacture of novel, high specification Diode-Pumped Solid-State (DPSS) laser systems. As the business has grown, they have both expanded the laser technologies (CW, pulsed and ultrafast capabilities) and developed a specialisation in laser light-engine sub-systems. The laser sub-system technologies are highly enabling to a wide range of applications in the high-resolution microscopy, Semi-con manufacturing and aeronautical sectors.
Laser Quantum was wholly acquired by Novanta in 2018. This has facilitated further expansion, culminating in the establishment of their new centre of excellence in the UK. Novanta is a global manufacturer of advanced technologies and importantly is a trusted technology partner to medical and advanced manufacturing system builders. The business brings its solutions and deep expertise in precision motion, laser, and vision-based technologies to many of the world’s most demanding applications.
This formalised collaboration will leverage the University's leading academic research capabilities and Novanta's industry expertise to foster innovation and knowledge exchange. The MoU outlines plans for a program of joint initiatives that will focus on building engagement between both organisations. These will focus on knowledge exchange, research, talent and skills including co-supervised Doctoral study programmes at UoM. The formalisation of our partnership was celebrated at a recent event attended by key figures from both institutions, including Prof Danielle George, Associate Vice President and a Professor of Radio Frequency Engineering at the University of Manchester. Danielle played a pivotal role in event delivering a keynote speech on the importance of innovation and collaboration.
A mutually agreed mission statement was also signed at the event which underscores the commitment of both parties:
"To establish a long-term collaborative partnership developing innovative talent, technology and products that positively impact our regional and global ecosystems."
Both the University of Manchester and Novanta are excited about the potential for this partnership to drive innovation, technological advancements and talent development to achieve both local and global impact – with the aspiration to create new opportunities for students, researchers and business professionals. The MoU is a testament to a shared vision of promoting academic exchange and innovation for the betterment of society.
At the MoU signature event, Dr Steve Lane and Prof Danielle George highlighted this opportunity and in Danielle’s words, “Collaboration is absolutely critical to realising the UK’s ambitions for science. To make innovation part of the country’s DNA the UK needs leading universities to partner with leading tech businesses, so we are delighted the UoM and Novanta are strengthening the regional growth by producing our own powerful economic mix of research, technology and creativity.”