Collection Overview

Scientific Reports has launched a Guest-Edited Collection on Polarised light.

The use of polarised light is paramount in a broad range of timely applications across various fields. From quantum computing to the next generation of optical sensors, the manipulation of photon polarisation is expected to be key for satisfying the latest societal need. The ability to control and utilise polarised photons is crucial, for example, for the development of secure quantum communication systems - which promise unparalleled levels of data encryption; additionally, polarised photons are instrumental in the advancement of quantum metrology, enabling more accurate and precise methods for sensing and imaging. As such, the integration and use of photon polarisation into practical applications is driving significant interest from both academia and industry, in the quest for the next generation of quantum technologies.

This will be a Collection of original research papers and will be open for submissions from all authors – on the condition that the manuscripts fall within the scope of the Collection and of Scientific Reports more generally. We are welcoming submissions until 2nd February 2026.

Why is this Collection important? 

"The study of polarised light is key for advancing our understanding of light - matter interactions and for developing technologies across a wide range of applications including imaging, communication, and sensing. This Collection will support research that explores both the fundamental physics and the practical applications of polarised light, highlighting its role in emerging technologies." - Dr. Silvia Butera

Why submit to a Collection? 

Collections like this one help promote high-quality science. They are led by Guest Editors, who are experts in their fields, and In-House Editors and are supported by a dedicated team of Commissioning Editors and Managing Editors at Springer Nature. Collection manuscripts typically see higher citations, downloads, and Altmetric scores, and provide a one-stop-shop on a cutting-edge topic of interest. 

Who is involved? 

Guest Editors:

• Lin Chen, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, China
• Xiaobo Li, Tianjin University, China
• Ching-Cherng Sun, National Central University, Taiwan

Internal Team:

• In-House Editor: Silvia Butera, Scientific Reports, Germany
• Commissioning Editor: Robert Moran, Fully OA Brands, Springer Nature, UK
• Managing Editor: Rebecca Chan, Fully OA Brands, Springer Nature, UK

How can I submit my paper? 

Visit the Collection page to find out more about this Collection and how to submit your article.