September 02, 2025 -- With the launch of the PHORTIFY project on 1 September 1 2025, Jena is reinforcing its position as a European hub for optics and photonics. Three partners from the »City of Light« are involved: Friedrich Schiller University Jena with the Abbe School of Photonics (ASP), the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (Leibniz IPHT), and Active Fiber Systems GmbH. Together with nine other universities and research institutions across Europe, these partners aim to develop training programmes in photonics and attract young talent to research and industry. Consortium partners include École Polytechnique in France, TU Delft, Politecnico di Milano, and the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO) in Barcelona. Vrije Universiteit Brussel is coordinating the consortium.

Strengthening Education Through a European Network

PHORTIFY builds on well-established, internationally renowned master’s programmes at the University of Jena, such as those offered by the ASP. Building on these programmes, the consortium will develop flexible teaching formats to make practice-oriented education and advanced training in photonic technologies more accessible to students and professionals across Europe. The goal is to strengthen the education of young talent through international exchange programmes, hybrid courses, and close collaboration with industry partners.

"It is a great honour for us to be part of this consortium," says Dr Christian Helgert, Managing Director of the Abbe Center of Photonics at the University of Jena. "PHORTIFY demonstrates that here in Jena, the university, non-university research, and industry together play in the Champions League of photonics.« Jena is recognized across Europe as the ›City of Light‹ and continues to attract students who enrich our academic community and research.”

Linking Research, Teaching, and Practice

Leibniz IPHT contributes its expertise in biomedical diagnostics and photonic methods. The institute is developing concepts for digital, remotely controlled laboratories that will enable students to gain practical experience regardless of their location. »International collaboration is indispensable for scientific excellence. At Leibniz IPHT, we see every day how cultural and intellectual diversity forms the foundation for progress. With PHORTIFY, we are creating an environment where young people from all over the world can conduct research, learn, and grow together,« emphasizes Prof. Dr Jürgen Popp, Scientific Director of Leibniz IPHT.

As Jena’s industry partner, Active Fiber Systems GmbH links academic training with the practical demands of business. Dr Tino Eidam, CTO of Active Fiber Systems, explains: »Jena offers good conditions with many motivated graduates, yet a shortage of skilled workers, particularly in technical fields, is noticeable. That is why we are taking new approaches early on. With PHORTIFY, we support young talent, provide hands-on experience during their studies, and create real career prospects. This strengthens both research and industry while increasing Jena’s international visibility.«

Jena as a Photonics Centre

PHORTIFY showcases Jena’s distinctive strength: the close collaboration between the university, non-university research institutes, and businesses. This network has shaped the city for many years, ensuring that research results are quickly transferred into practical applications. The three Jena partners already collaborate successfully on numerous projects. One example is the development of a probe for cancer diagnostics that uses laser light to precisely detect and remove tumour tissue during surgery.

At the start of the project, the Jena partners received funding of around €1.24 million. The consortium includes a total of 12 partners from academia, research, and industry, including seven universities, three research institutes, and two companies. The kick-off meeting will take place on 10 September 2025 in Brussels. Over the next four years, the partners aim to further integrate teaching, research, and practice to create new opportunities for students and companies alike.