The membership of Optica, formerly OSA, the leading organization for the advancement of optics and photonics worldwide, has elected Judith Dawes, Professor of Physics at the Department of Physics and Astronomy and Director of MQ Photonics Research Centre at Macquarie University, Australia, as a Director-at-large for a 2022-2024 term. Professor Gerd Leuchs, Director Emeritus at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Germany, was elected as the society’s 2022 Vice President.

Judith Dawes is a Professor of Physics and Director of Macquarie University’s MQ Photonics Research Centre, Sydney, Australia and is a member of the Academic Senate of the University. She served as Head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy from 2013-2015.

Judith’s current research focuses on the collective interactions of light at the nanoscale, applying nanophotonics to imaging and sensing. Her research achievements include the crystal growth and laser operation of a new laser crystal, Yb:YAB, which emits tunable, self-frequency-doubled, infrared and green light; and the invention of a laser-cured protein solder for laser microsurgery to repair severed nerves and blood vessels.

Optica (formerly OSA) is dedicated to promoting the generation, application, archiving, and dissemination of knowledge in optics and photonics worldwide. Founded in 1916, it is the leading organization for scientists, engineers, business professionals, students, and others interested in the science of light.