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Welcome Address and Plenary Speaker Introduction

Understanding the role of photonics in a changing world


Carol Monaghan, UK Parliament (United Kingdom)

For decades, the photonics industry has been at the forefront of global innovation and research. Developments such as advanced LIDAR systems for autonomous vehicles, secure quantum computers and 5G communications, ensure that this sector remains as relevant as ever with the potential for major growth across multiple technologies. However increased threats to national security mean that the importance of this industry goes beyond basic economics. Set against a backdrop of a challenging funding landscape, can governments really afford not to invest in photonics and quantum?

Biography: Carol Monaghan graduated from the University of Strathclyde in 1993 with a BSc (Hons) in Laser Physics and Optoelectronics before training as a physics teacher. Her 20-year teaching career included 14 years as Head of Physics and Science at Hyndland Secondary. Carol was first elected as the MP for Glasgow North West in 2015 and re-elected in 2017 and 2019. She is the SNP’s Westminster Spokesperson for Education, Armed Forces and Veterans.

Carol is a board member of the Science and Technology Select Committee, Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, and Industry & Parliament Trust. She is also the Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Photonics and Quantum, and Vice Chair of All-Party Parliamentary Group on Space.