Francesco Poletti

Professor Francesco Poletti is a Professorial Fellow-Research at the University of Southampton's Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), specializing in advanced optical fiber technologies. He leads multiple high-impact research projects funded by prestigious organizations including EPSRC, the European Union, Royal Society, and industry partners like Microsoft Corporation.

His research focuses on:

• Hollow Core Optical Fibres design and fabrication
• Optical Communications for high capacity and low latency systems
• Novel active and passive optical fibres
• Applications of hollow core optical fibres
• Optical fibre guidance mechanisms

Professor Poletti's recent publications demonstrate leadership in hollow core fiber technology, with significant advancements in manufacturing techniques, optical performance, and practical applications. His 2024-2025 publications show particular emphasis on improving fiber compatibility with existing infrastructure, developing mid-infrared capabilities, enhancing laser integration, and creating novel sensing applications.

His scientific recognition includes a prestigious Royal Society Fellowship. Current major projects include FASTNET (revolutionary hollow core low-latency fibres), research contracts with Microsoft, and EU-funded initiatives like WISDOM and EMPRESS.

Professor Poletti actively supervises PhD students and accepts new applications, currently mentoring Rene Andres Reynolds Hamel, Mahmudur Rahman, Amalie Gjelsvik, and Chiang Ping Saw. His research group is a core component of the Hollow Core Fibre and Fibres and Communications research teams at the ORC.