​Theme: From Research to Real-World Impact: Careers, Communication & Innovation in Photonics

​About the Event

​

​What does it take to turn photonics knowledge and research into meaningful careers, innovation, and real-world impact?

​The FPSIF 2026 brings together students, researchers, academic leaders, and industry professionals for an afternoon of conversations around the future of photonics, scientific communication, career development, research-to-industry pathways, and innovation.

​The 2026 Forum marks the inaugural edition of a new national student-led collaboration bringing together optics and photonics student organizations across Finland. Our ambition is to establish the Finnish Photonics Student Forum as an annual event, with hosting rotating among participating universities.

​Featured Speakers

​Prof. Jyrki Saarinen

​Head of Department, Center for Photonics Sciences, University of Eastern Finland

​The Future of Photonics in Finland: Research, Industry and Opportunities for the Next Generation

​A perspective on Finland's evolving photonics ecosystem and the opportunities ahead for students and early-career professionals.

​Cory Boone

​Technical Content Strategist, Zygo Corporation, USA

​Communicating Photonics: Building Your Scientific Brand Beyond the Laboratory

​Explore how scientific communication, professional visibility, outreach, and storytelling can strengthen your career and amplify the impact of your technical expertise.

​Cory will also lead an interactive photonics outreach demonstration using educational photonics kits.

​Prof. Mircea Guina

​Head of ORC, Tampere University

​From Photonics Research to Innovation and Industry Impact

​Explore the pathway from advanced photonics research to technological innovation, research–industry collaboration, and real-world applications.

What to Expect

​🔬 Insights into the future of photonics research and industry
💼 Career and professional development perspectives
🎯 Scientific communication and personal branding
💡 Research-to-innovation and commercialization insights
🧪 Interactive photonics demonstrations
🎤 Panel discussion and audience Q&A
🤝 Networking with students and professionals from across Finland

​Who Should Attend?

​The Forum is open to Bachelor's and Master's students, doctoral researchers, early-career researchers, academics, student chapter members, and anyone interested in careers and innovation in optics and photonics.

​Students from universities across Finland are especially encouraged to participate.

​A National Student Collaboration

​The inaugural Forum brings together:

• ​Photonics Joensuu Student Club (PhoJoe)

  • ​UEF Optica Student Chapter

  • ​EOS Finland Student Club

• ​Aalto University Optica Student Chapter

• ​Tampere University Optica and SPIE Student Chapters