The first Photonics100 Meet-Up at Manchester’s prestigious Midland Hotel proved to be an extraordinary success, bringing together an impressive lineup of Photonics100 winners from 2025 and honorees from the past two years. Held on October 30 alongside SPIE's Photonex exhibition, this exclusive gathering allowed participants to explore the latest developments in photonics while connecting with a vibrant community of innovators.
The day featured a series of in-depth roundtable discussions on key topics shaping the field. One session focused on the convergence of artificial intelligence and photonics, where attendees examined the potential of AI-driven advancements to revolutionise industries worldwide. A session on emerging technologies explored cutting-edge areas like quantum photonics, metamaterials, and integrated optics, delving into the challenges and opportunities these innovations bring. Another discussion centred on photonics’ growing impact across healthcare, telecommunications, manufacturing, and renewable energy, with industry leaders sharing real-world case studies and potential avenues for collaboration.
The event’s centrepiece was an insightful panel discussion on the global challenges and opportunities defining the future of photonics, led by Europa Science CEO Warren Clark. Joining him were Chris Dorman OBE, the Executive Vice President, Lasers Segment, at Coherent (appearing on behalf of Coherent CTO and Photonics 100 honouree Julie Eng); John Lincoln, Chief Executive, Photonics Leadership Group; and Georg Draude, General Manager, Chroma Technology, each bringing their expertise to tackle the critical issues impacting the industry, from regulatory landscapes to the pressing need for innovation across sectors. This discussion, recorded live, will soon be available to watch as an on-demand webcast, offering even more photonics professionals the chance to gain insights from these respected leaders.
Supported by Chroma Technology, the Photonics100 Meet-Up successfully positioned the UK as a pivotal hub for photonics thought leadership. With plans already underway to expand these gatherings to additional international venues, the inaugural meet-up set a new standard for fostering collaboration and advancing the future of photonics worldwide.
