|
Advancing the Science and Technology of Light
Founded in 1916, The Optical Society of
America (OSA) was organized in order to increase and diffuse the knowledge of optics, pure and
applied; to promote the common interests of investigators of optical problems, of designers and of users of optical
apparatus of all kinds; and to encourage cooperation among them. The mission of The Optical Society (OSA) is to
promote the generation, application and archiving of knowledge in optics and photonics and to disseminate this
knowledge worldwide. The purposes of the Society are scientific, technical and educational.The purposes of the Society are scientific, technical and educational.
The Optical Society brings together optics and photonics scientists, engineers, educators, and business leaders. OSA's
membership totals 15,500 individuals from over 95 countries. Nearly 190 student chapters are
held by the OSA in 44 countries. Approximately 47% of the Society's members reside outside the United States.
The OSA Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to supporting programs that:
- Advance youth science education
- Provide optics education and resources to underserved populations
- Provide career and professional development resources
- Support awards & honors that recognize technical and business excellence
Since its establishment in 2002, the Foundation has provided support to more than 235 programs in over 55 countries. This work
has a lasting impact, thanks to the generosity of our donors and the positive outcomes our funded programs have generated.
The OSA awards more than 25 prizes recognizing outstanding contributions to various fields in optical sciences. Moreover,
OSA and the OSA Foundation offer grants and financial support for several education, research and technical programs.
Several Nobel Laureates in Physics, Chemistry and Physiology / Medicine are honorary members, fellows and members of the OSA.
Further information about the OSA and its aims and scopes are compiled on the OSA
websites:
www.osa.org
www.osa-foundation.org
In January 2010, I was invited to become a member
of the OSA.
|