A remarbable convergence between the magnetic hard-drive industry and photonics technology is about to take place through the use of lasers to switch magnetisation at the nanoscale using plasmonics powered by a semiconductor laser. This heat assisted magnetic recording will enable storage densities of 1 terabit per square inch. The laser needs to be integrated with the read-write head and needs to operate under severe temperature conditions. The implementation of lasers in manufactured products requires the attainment of new knowledge by the magnetics industry along with the response of the academic industry to the new performance challenges. These goals can only be reached through a strong collaborative programme between industry and academia. The scientific programme is to study the properties of III-V materials to allow higher temperature operation and to study the reliability of lasers when formed by etching. The knowledge will be transferred through the cross-border secondment of staff and researchers between Seagate and the Tyndall National Institute.