Optics and photonics have defined Jena’s profile as ‘Science City’ for more than one century. Today, the Abbe Center
of Photonics (ACP) concatenates all fundamental aspects of photonics in cooperation with the Leibniz Institute of
Photonic Technology (IPHT) and with the Helmholtz Institute Jena (HIJ). Beside the academic education of
young-career scientists, current research thrusts address ACP’s key areas ultra optics, strong field physics and biophotonics. Likewise and together with ACP, the Fraunhofer Institute of Applied Optics and Precision Engineering
(IOF) pursues holistic solutions with light to accomplish the important future challenges in the global sectors of
energy, mobility, environment, health, communication and information technologies. 

The University of Applied Sciences Jena (EAH) focuses on education and research in applied optics and laser
technology. By virtue of the strong connections between university, non-academic research institutions and local
optics industry, optics and photonics have sustainably shaped the economic structure of the whole Jena region.