Teaching Optics with Ansys at UC San Diego

Overview

This webinar explores how simulation tools like Ansys Zemax OpticStudio and Ansys Lumerical are enhancing optics and photonics education by helping students visualize and experiment with complex concepts. Prof. Saharnaz Baghdadchi (UC San Diego) will share how she integrated these tools into courses through the Ansys Funded Curriculum Program, creating resources such as a James Webb Space Telescope module and exercises on waveguides, interferometers, and resonators. An Ansys expert will also provide practical tips for using Lumerical in teaching. This webinar offers ideas for educators looking to incorporate or expand simulation in their curriculum.

What attendees will learn

• Approaches for incorporating optical and photonic simulation into teaching
• Ansys Zemax OpticStudio and Ansys Lumerical examples suitable for course adoption or adaptation
• Practical methods for analyzing optical and photonic structures with Ansys tools
• Ways to design hands‑on activities that strengthen conceptual understanding

Who should attend

• This session is designed for educators in optics, photonics, physics, and related engineering disciplines who wish to enhance student learning through simulation‑based teaching. Attendees will leave with concrete examples and ideas they can readily incorporate into their own courses.

Speakers

• Prof. Saharnaz Baghdadchi (UCSD)
• Fatema Chowdhury (Synopsys) (tbc)