For more than a decade, CREOL has showcased research, faculty excellence, and student talent at the Siegman International School on Lasers.

Organized annually by Optica, former CREOL Dean Eric Van Stryland was instrumental in helping found and organize the event in 2014. The annual week-long program invites up to 100 graduate students from around the world to expand their knowledge of lasers and photonics technologies. The forum brings together researchers and industry experts to share their knowledge with the next generation in the field. Participants engage in lectures, technical discussions, and group activities.

During the 2025 event at Yerevan State University in Armenia, students from more than 25 countries presented their research in the poster session. CREOL doctoral student Swati Bhargava was awarded Honorable Mention of the McMurtry Paper Prize —a distinction that highlights her outstanding research contributions and presentation quality.

“Participating in the Siegman School was truly transformative.” Bhargava says. “I not only gained invaluable technical knowledge from luminaries in the field of laser science but also connected with inspiring researchers from around the world. Receiving recognition for my work was an incredible honor and a strong source of motivation for my future research.”

Bhargava is advised by CREOL Professor Miguel Bandres. Her research focuses on the design, simulation, fabrication, and characterization of photonic lattices, encompassing a range of structures from photonic lanterns to topological arrays. She aims to uncover new optical phenomena and develop innovative photonic devices for precise control and manipulation of light.