2025-2026 ROC Optica Speaker Series - Rushnan Islam, The Institute of Optics (University of Rochester)

Ultrafast Laser Micromachining in Dry Contact Lenses and Silk Fibroin Hydrogels: Exploring Mass Production of Vision Correctors and Biocompatible Custom Corneal Implants

Rushnan Islam, The Institute of Optics (University of Rochester)

Abstract

We demonstrate Laser Induced Refractive Index Change (LIRIC) in dry ophthalmic contact lenses and silk-fibroin based hydrogels. While LIRIC has previously been applied to hydrated ophthalmic materials, integrating this process into contact lens manufacturing requires adaptation to dry-state hydrogels. Our results show that LIRIC is not only feasible in dry and dehydrated lenses but can be achieved at lower laser powers than in hydrated materials. Silk-fibroin based hydrogels were investigated for their biocompatibility and optical transparency, making them promising candidates for corneal implants capable of incorporating custom refractive corrections.

Bio

Rushnan is a final-year PhD student in the Knox Lab at the Institute of Optics, University of Rochester. Her research lies at the intersection of ultrafast optics, materials science, and refractive vision correction. She served as President of the SPIE Student Chapter at the University of Rochester in 2024 and was part of the executive board for three years, during which she was actively involved in optics outreach activities. Outside the lab, she enjoys long walks, catching up with friends over coffee, and experimenting in her kitchen—which she often turns into her own mini lab.

Parking and location

The talk will be held at UR River Campus, Goergen 101. Parking is available in the lot across the street in Intercampus Drive Lot, and is free for talk attendees (no pass needed).

Pre-talk dinner

A pre-talk dinner will be held at 5:15 pm at The King and I (1455 E Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14623). If you would like to attend, please contact the house committee by email to make reservations. Email: house@opticarochester.org