In 2017, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) introduced the Prosperity Partnership program to foster collaboration between academia and industry. One notable partnership that emerged from this program was between the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) and Rockley Photonics.
This partnership was strengthened by the shared history between Andrew Rickman, CEO of Rockley Photonics, and Professor Graham Reed, Director of the ORC. Andrew was the first-ever PhD student of Professor Reed, establishing a collaborative bond that began in 2013 when Rockley Photonics was founded. Initially focused on advancing data center communications, the partnership aimed to leverage the ORC's expertise in modulators and communications.
The primary goal of the project, after securing funding in the inaugural round of the Prosperity Partnership scheme, was to enhance the speed and energy efficiency of data centers and explore novel sensor applications. Three strategic work packages were identified to manage risk and address diverse aspects of the project.
Graham Reed articulated the project's vision, emphasizing the shift towards optical solutions for managing Internet traffic and the potential of silicon as an optical material to improve internet speed and reduce power consumption. The collaboration led to new insights on Silicon Photonics modulators and more efficient data center communications.
During the program, Rockley Photonics changed its focus from data center communications to healthcare, aiming to enhance the flexibility of its silicon photonics platform for multiple applications.
At the conclusion of the program, the collaborative effort emerged as the top-ranking project, resulting in significant technological success and the filing of seven patent families. The development of novel Si modulator technologies, with differentiating processes and designs compared to commercial modulators, showcased world-leading performance, demonstrating its high value for commercialization.
The collaboration between the ORC and Rockley Photonics in the first-ever round of Prosperity Partnership grants underscores the power of collaborative innovation.
