The two awards provide nearly $850,000 to support Parto’s research in integrated photonics and emerging optical information systems.

During National Postdoc Appreciation Week, Sept. 21–25, the university celebrates the contributors of postdoctoral scholars, an important group on researchers who help drive innovation at UCF.

Schülzgen’s career at UCF has included influential fiber optics research, the mentorship of emerging scientists and engineers, and innovations with real-world applications.

Hagan will begin a four-year term in SPIE’s presidential chain in 2027.

A 10-week internship supported by Grinnell College gave an undergraduate researcher the opportunity to explore photonics and a new way of thinking about research.

Zhang was recognized for an innovative simulation framework designed to support the development of diffractive waveguide augmented reality displays.