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Jannick Rolland
Director at NSF I/UCRC Center for Freeform Optics & co-founder & CTO at LighTopTech Corp.
Professional Background
Jannick Rolland is a distinguished optical engineer with a rich history that intertwines passion for both the sciences and the arts. He has committed his professional life to the advancement of optical sciences, while also maintaining an interest in performance arts, particularly dance. Beginning his career with a solid foundation in science and technology, Jannick set out on a path that has allowed him to combine creativity with technical expertise in the field of optics.
Jannick's illustrious career commenced after he earned his Diploma from the Institut D'Optique, near Paris, in 1984. He later pursued higher education, earning both his Master's and Ph.D. degrees in Optical Sciences from the University of Arizona in 1990. His academic prowess led him to hold significant positions in prestigious institutions. From 1992 to 1996, he served as the head of the Vision Research Group for Medical Displays at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, contributing to the important field of medical optics.
In 1996, Jannick took on the role of professor at the University of Central Florida, where he remained until 2008. His commitment to education and optical research led him to join the Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester in 2009, where he has since held the esteemed title of The Brian J. Thompson Professor of Optical Engineering. His leadership in the optical community is further exemplified through his roles as director of the National Science Foundation Center for Freeform Optics (CeFO) since 2013, and the R.E. Hopkins Center for Optical Design and Engineering since 2012. Through these roles, he has influenced the development of cutting-edge optical technologies and innovation.
Education and Achievements
Jannick Rolland's educational journey in optics has significantly shaped his career and contributions to the field. He received a Diploma from the Institut D'Optique, a prestigious institution known for its excellence in optical science. Following this, he further enriched his knowledge with both a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Optical Sciences from the University of Arizona. This rigorous academic training laid the groundwork for his future achievements in optical engineering and research.
Jannick has been recognized for his exemplary work in the optical sciences. As a testament to his reputation, he has served on the editorial board of several respected journals, including the Journal Presence, for a decade (1996-2006), and as Associate Editor of Optical Engineering (1999-2004). Currently, he holds the position of Topical Editor for Optics Letters since 2017, providing his expertise and insight into the latest advancements in optics. Jannick is not only a beacon in educational circles, but he has also received numerous accolades highlighting his outstanding contributions to the field.
Among his many honors, he was awarded the OSA 2014 David Richardson Medal, in recognition of his outstanding achievements in optical engineering. He is a proud Fellow of both the Optica (formerly known as the Optical Society of America) and SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics. In his local community of Rochester, Jannick has been recognized as a top educator and leader; he was honored with the 2017 Edmund A. Hajim Outstanding Faculty Award from the University of Rochester and the 2019 Engineer of Distinction Award by the Rochester Engineering Society.
Jannick remains deeply connected to his alma mater, having been presented with the 2019 Alumna of the Year Award from the J.C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences at the University of Arizona. His dedication to the optical community has also been recognized on a larger scale, earning him the 2020 OSA Joseph Fraunhofer Award/Robert M. Burley Prize, reiterating his pivotal role in the field of optics.
Specialties and Areas of Expertise
Jannick Rolland’s expertise encompasses a diverse set of specialties within the optical engineering realm. He excels in Optical System Design for Imaging and Non-imaging Optics, bringing an innovative approach to imaging technologies. His proficiency in physics-based modeling and image quality assessment significantly contributes to advancements in optical metrology.
His research projects are often focused on the integration of optics in various fields, leading to advancements in technologies such as augmented reality and optical coherence tomography. This has implications for both biomedical applications and medical diagnostics, demonstrating his impact on healthcare technology. Additionally, Jannick’s work in the alignment of optical systems and contributions to aberration theory are critical components of improving optical design and functionality.
Through his roles in both academic and research settings, Jannick continually influences the development of methodologies that enhance optical performance and efficiency. His dual background in both engineering and physics positions him uniquely to tackle complex challenges in optics, ensuring he remains at the forefront of innovation in this exciting field.
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