The Duke of Edinburgh visits CORNERSTONE and the University of Southampton to see how silicon photonics is powering UK innovation

CORNERSTONE was honoured to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh to the University of Southampton on Friday 3rd October 2025. The visit highlighted how ground-breaking, light-based technologies are powering the UK’s economic growth and strengthening its global leadership in silicon photonics.

During the visit, The Duke explored the University’s cleanroom facilities, gaining first-hand insight into the advanced technology and infrastructure that enable world-class research to be translated into market-ready innovations.

He met researchers at the forefront of silicon photonics, along with pioneering companies such as Aquark Technologies, Light Trace Photonics, Wave Photonics, and Zero Point Motion, and the MISSION programme – all contributing to technologies delivering real-world impact.

The tour also included conversations with students from Ringwood School, who have taken part in CORNERSTONE’s schools outreach programme, which delivers hands-on photonics STEAM workshops to inspire young people to consider careers in science and engineering. In addition, he met young entrepreneurs who have launched start-ups with the University’s support.

Professor Averil Macdonald said:

“We want to inspire students from all backgrounds to see that a career in science could be for them, and engaging with them about the science and technology of silicon photonics is a great way to start.”

As the UK’s focal point for silicon photonics innovation, the CORNERSTONE Photonics Innovation Centre (C-PIC) provides a wide range of services to academics, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and industry partners. Its mission is to accelerate the development of new photonics technologies for use across telecoms, defence, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy.

Professor Graham Reed, Director of CORNERSTONE, said:

“By uniting leading entrepreneurs and researchers we’re delivering a step-change in the silicon photonics industry that will foster growth, create skilled jobs and position the UK as a hub of global innovation.”

Professor Mark E. Smith, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Southampton, added:

“I’m delighted to have welcomed The Duke of Edinburgh to see our pioneering work and to meet the students and business partners we are working with. This work creates a pipeline of talent and enterprise aligned with the Government’s skills agenda and industrial strategy.”