ConocoPhillips has joined the Center for Organic Photonics and Electronics at Georgia Tech as member of the center’s recently launched Industrial Affiliates Program.

As a member of the program, ConocoPhillips will connect to the faculty expertise and highly trained students and graduates of the Center as well as an international network of partners in the field of organic photonics and electronics. This includes information on the latest research and discoveries and invitations to exclusive events.

When asked about joining the program, Stephen Brand, ConocoPhillips' senior vice president, stated, "COPE is a world leader in organic photovoltaic research, and their fundamental understanding of the technology and work on device development provides an ideal foundation for our company's research focused on developing affordable renewable energy."

As of the end of 2009, ConocoPhillips was the third-largest integrated energy company in the U.S., based on market capitalization, oil and natural gas reserves, and production.

"Our participation in COPE will allow ConocoPhillips to monitor and take advantage of developments in this rapidly evolving field, and it will help us augment and guide our own efforts in the field," Brand added.

Bernard Kippelen, co-director of the Center stated, "I am delighted that ConocoPhillips, one of the largest international integrated energy company, has joined COPE's Industrial Affiliates Program. Such a partnership will contribute to the growth of COPE's portfolio of scientific and technological innovations in the area of energy and I am convinced that the interactions between COPE and ConocoPhillips will be mutually beneficial."