Optical Sciences
& Photonics
Chair
Advancing high-impact research in optical sciences and photonics; driving innovation in green energy, health, agriculture, and materials science.
A New Frontier in Hard Sciences at IAS
Established in February 2026, the Chair in Optical Sciences and Photonics (COSP) marks a strategic expansion of IAS–UM6P into hard sciences. Optical sciences and photonics are inherently multidisciplinary — connecting physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and medicine through the science of light.
The Chair bridges foundational research with market-oriented applications, producing high-impact scientific work while contributing directly to Morocco's and Africa's socio-economic development. It works in close collaboration with IAS's Chairs of Transitions and Global Critical Zone Sciences, as well as UM6P's colleges and research departments.
Pursues high-level scientific research in strategic areas — green energy, biotechnology, health, and agriculture — publishing in top-tier international journals and advancing the global frontier of photonics science.
Develops the next generation of scientists through the supervision of master's and doctoral students, post-doctoral researchers, and young scientists — in collaboration with UM6P colleges and international partners.
Develops R&D oriented toward concrete applications and socio-economic impact, contributing to Morocco's national innovation agenda and strengthening UM6P's international scientific visibility and outreach.
“Photonics is the science of the 21st century; light is the medium through which we will solve some of our greatest challenges, from clean energy to precision medicine. At IAS UM6P, we are building a platform for this science to thrive and make a difference.”
Professor Zouheir Sekkat is an internationally recognized expert in optical sciences, photonics, and materials science. As Scientific Director of the Institute for Advanced Studies at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, he leads IAS's scientific agenda with a commitment to rigorous, interdisciplinary, and impactful research.
Named as holder of the newly created Chair in Optical Sciences and Photonics by President Hicham El Habti, Prof. Sekkat brings decades of expertise in light–matter interactions, laser science, optical materials, and photonic applications to shape this new strategic initiative at UM6P.
Strategic Areas of Research & Innovation
The COSP Chair pursues a multidisciplinary research agenda connecting the science of light to some of the most pressing challenges of our time — from clean energy and food security to precision medicine and advanced materials.
Rooted in Collaboration
The Chair in Optical Sciences and Photonics is designed to work across disciplines — integrating into IAS's existing scientific framework and collaborating broadly with UM6P's ecosystem.