Get to know leading photonics research institutes across Germany

In many ways, photonics and photonic technologies serve as a foundation for our modern society. As the science of employing light as a tool for the benefit of humans, photonics drive innovations in an increasing number of fields, ranging from optical communication, lighting, displays and imaging to production technologies, life science, health and environmental science.

With Fraunhofer Photonica, 20 young scientists have the opportunity to discover photonics research at leading photonics research institutes. Even before graduating their master’s studies, students can broaden their knowledge and perspective on photonics research and applications.

At the Fraunhofer Photonica Summer School, young scientists will visit a number of Fraunhofer institutes. Travel and accommodation cost will be covered. At each site, a topical scientific program with hands-on practical elements will provide insights into and different perspectives on photonics.

© Fraunhofer IPM
© Fraunhofer/Dragos Popescu
© Fraunhofer/Dragos Popescu
Your benefits:
  • Discover latest topics in photonics research on site
  • Get to know five leading research institutes with top-level research and career opportunities
  • Visit four exciting cities and research hubs across Germany
  • Discuss and exchange ideas with our experts and other young scientists
© Fraunhofer IPM

Thank you for Fraunhofer Photonica 2024!

© Fraunhofer IOF

The summer school Fraunhofer Photonica took place 2024 and 2023! 2024, we took the participants on a journey through the world of photonics from September 15 until September 21, 2024. They visited five institutes in four German cities:  

  • Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films IST, Braunschweig
  • Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF, Jena
  • Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS, Dresden
  • Fraunhofer Institute for Organic Electronics, Electron Beam and Plasma Technology FEP, Dresden
  • Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications, Heinrich-Hertz-Institut, HHI, Berlin

Thank you for your participation!   

Find the press release on the website of Fraunhofer IPM.

First Summer School Fraunhofer Photonica a Great Success – Thank You to All!

We would like to thank everyone who made the first Summer School Fraunhofer Photonica a great success: participants and organizers alike, everybody showed their excitement about this fantastic event! Below, you can find a selection of testimonials of our 20 participants.

© Fraunhofer IPM
© Fraunhofer IPM
© Fraunhofer IPM

    “It has been, without a doubt, the best educational experience I've ever had, offering invaluable insights and opportunities for personal and professional growth.” (Youssef A.)

“All venues consisted of an enriching program with the right balance of theoretical foundations, hands-on experience and professionally guided lab tours where no questions remained unanswered.” (Lennard D.)

“Participating at the Fraunhofer Photonica Sommer School allowed me to acquire a lot of information about how the different optics and photonics topics I’ve learnt about at university come together in real world applications.” (Luisa A.)

“Overall due to this summer school, I gained a deeper understanding of the core principles of Fraunhofer and the broad spectrum and perspectives it offers for young scientists like myself and definitely consider this when taking further steps in my career.” (Lennard D.)

“The excellent program and organization of the Sommer School helped me to get to know and understand Fraunhofer as a research institute as well as a potential employer.” (Luisa A.)

“It [the summer school] helped me a lot in deciding what to do next after completing my master’s degree and showed the great work opportunities Fraunhofer has to offer.” (Tabea F.)

“During this time, I had the privilege of meeting amazing people, and together, we shared many memorable moments.” (Youssef A.)

Find the press release here.

Information

 

Scientific Program

 

Venues 2024

 

Information for
participants