Materials Science and Engineering
  • Linda Lin recognized as 2023 Optica Foundation Women Scholar

Linda Lin recognized as 2023 Optica Foundation Women Scholar

Linda Lin, a junior in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania, has been recognized as a 2023 Optica Foundation Women Scholar. The Optica Women Scholars program aims to provide visibility, community, and valuable resources for women in the fields of optics and photonics, empowering them to succeed in their careers.

Linda Lin

As a recipient of the Optica Women Scholars program, Linda will receive a $10,000 scholarship funding, which is intended to reduce financial hurdles and barriers, allowing her to focus on her academic experience. The scholarship supports undergraduate and Master’s-level students studying physics, math, engineering, optics, and photonics. “This award came as a total surprise to me, but I’m so grateful for getting recognized for the work I’ve done so far, and I’ll be sure to capitalize on this opportunity I’ve been given to the best of my ability,” commented Lin.

In addition to the scholarship, Linda Lin and the other recipients of the Optica Women Scholars program will have access to professional development resources from Optica, including membership and mentorship opportunities. This will provide them with valuable support and guidance as they navigate their careers in the field of optics and photonics.

Launched in January 2022, the Optica Women Scholars program received nearly 180 undergraduate and Master’s level student applications from 38 countries this year. The selection process was highly competitive, given the exceptional pool of applications. Scholars were selected based on need, academic performance, and demonstrated potential..

The Optica Foundation is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the field of optics and photonics, and the Optica Women Scholars program is a significant initiative towards achieving this goal. By recognizing and supporting outstanding women scholars like Linda Lin, the foundation aims to foster a more diverse and vibrant community of professionals in the field.