Optics & photonics

Welcome to the heart of the optics and photonics industry – welcome to Jena, the city of light! Over 150 years ago, Carl Zeiß, Ernst Abbe and Otto Schott laid the foundations for the international centre of photonics technologies by building microscopes here. Their vision of closely linking research and industry still has an impact today.

Jena offers optimal conditions for companies, research institutions and skilled workers in the optics and photonics industry. With an excellent infrastructure, qualified young talent and an active technology network, the city is a strong business location for photonic technologies.

The research-intensive companies in Jena are active in numerous fields of photonics technology. This diversity makes the location attractive for co-operations, investments and photonics jobs in a dynamic environment. As “hidden champions”, many high-tech companies are market leaders in their segment with their products and solutions.

More than 9,000 specialists work in the industry in Jena – including more than 1,000 highly qualified scientists. Leading research institutions such as the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering (IOF), the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (IPHT) and the Abbe Centre of Photonics form the backbone of photonics research in Jena. Science and industry are closely networked at the location – ideal conditions for innovation, technology transfer and product development.

The industry association OptoNet e.V. networks over 130 companies, institutes and universities in the Thuringia photonics cluster. The association provides active support in the areas of technology transfer, skilled labour development, innovation promotion and location marketing, thereby strengthening the international photonics region.

Are you planning a project, a relocation or looking for partners in the field of optics & photonics?
Contact us – we will connect you with the Jena innovation ecosystem.