About
The LiFi Research and Development Centre (LRDC) is a leading research group specialising in LiFi and optical communications. We are pioneering advancements in wireless communication technologies by harnessing the power of light to transmit data using our world-class expertise in advanced modulation techniques, signal processing, and future telecommunication systems, creating a more prosperous world for all.
Prof. Harald Haas, the inventor of LiFi technology, established the LRDC at the University of Edinburgh in 2013. Here, it grew from a small team to one of over 15 people. After seven years, the LRDC moved to the University of Strathclyde in 2020. In April 2024, the Centre joined the Electrical Engineering Department at University of Cambridge to expand its research efforts. The LRDC is a founding member of the Light Communications Alliance.
Collaborations with partner universities, research institutions and industry are at the core of what we do and help drive effective innovation and commercialisation of LiFi technologies. You can read more about our collaborations on our Projects page.
Our group comprises over 15 researchers, including PhD candidates, and a dedicated Central Operations Team. See Our People page for detailed information.
LiFi is a revolutionary technology that transmits information via light, rather than radio waves. LiFi unlocks several unique advantages, such as enhanced speed, security, and reduced interference. LiFi can be especially useful in environments where WiFi is less effective, may cause disruptions and where sensitive data is transmitted such as hospitals, aircrafts and underwater. The ultra-high speeds that LiFi offers, makes it ideal for cutting-edge applications such as holographic displays.
our research
We have published over 700 peer-reviewed papers in leading journals and presented more than 150 keynotes and invited talks at numerous global conferences. Our research has generated impact through citations in more than 50,000 publications and we hold 45 patents. Our team has received prestigious awards such as The Enginuity Connected Places Innovation Award. The LRDC and our research has won over £30 million in competitive funding.
See our Publications page for an overview of our most recent papers.
Projects and partnerships
Creating real impact through collaboration is at the heart of our research ethos. We harness the full commercial potential of LiFi and accelerate the adoption of LiFi technology by bringing together world-class research and industry experts.
The LRDC partners with leading universities, research institutions, government and industry innovators across the UK and around the world. Through research projects like and consortia such as the telecoms hub TITAN and collaborations with industry partners, we combine our experience, knowledge and expertise to fix complex problems and drive growth. We regularly welcome researchers from other institutions around the world to engage in joint research activities to harness the collaborative efforts to produce impactful outputs.
Find out more on our Projects page.
LOCATION
Address
The LiFi Research and Development Centre
University of Cambridge
Electrical Engineering Division Building
9 JJ Thomson Ave
Cambridge CB3 0FA
CB3 0FA