Electro-Optics is one of the fastest growing high technology disciplines in the world. As of 1987 the dollar value of optics instrumentation produced by U.S. industry was in excess of $10 billion. At present, however, the full potential of this discipline is threatened by the lack of fundamental research and by a serious manpower shortage to accomplish this research. Industry has indicated an interest in supporting a cooperative research center in electro-optics technology. The objective of such a center would be to address the generic research needs of industry, especially in optical materials, applied image processing, and non-linear optics. An I/UCRC in Electro-Optics Technology appears to be one approach to satisfy the noted need. Alternative organizations, operations, and policies would be studied as well as industry's interests and specific needs in research. The principal investigator is highly qualified to direct a study of the viability and feasibility of an Industry/University Cooperative Research Center in Electro-Optics Technology. The study would also determine if the Center has the potential to become self-sufficient with industrial funding in a five year period as NSF funding is phased out. The Program Manager recommends that Tufts University be awarded $25,000 for one year to fund such a study. All future funding will be on the basis of a new proposal.
