Young researchers shaping the future of photonics and semiconductors to meet in Vilnius

From 29 September to 2 October, Vilnius will host the international young scientists’ symposium “Frontiers of Photonics & Semiconductor Technology 2026”, bringing together PhD students, early-career researchers and internationally recognised scientists from around the world.

Over four days, the symposium will focus on the latest developments in photonics, semiconductor technologies, terahertz (THz) technologies, integrated photonics and communications, as well as their applications in addressing current technological and societal challenges.

Where photonics meets semiconductor technologies

Advances in photonics and semiconductor technologies are closely connected to many of the technologies shaping our future – from advanced communications and data transmission to sensing, electronics, optical systems and other emerging applications.

For ChipsC²-LT, the symposium is particularly relevant as it brings together research, expertise and the next generation of technology developers. A strong semiconductor ecosystem depends on highly skilled specialists, interdisciplinary collaboration and continuous development of knowledge and competences.

The symposium will explore topics including:

  • photonics and integrated photonics;
  • semiconductor technologies;
  • terahertz (THz) technologies;
  • optical and photonic communications;
  • emerging applications at the intersection of photonics, electronics and semiconductors.

From research to real-world challenges

The programme will go beyond scientific lectures. Young researchers will have the opportunity to present their own research, exchange ideas with international experts and work collaboratively on real technological and societal challenges.

Plenary lectures will be delivered by internationally recognised scientists Xi-Cheng Zhang, Willie Padilla and Tadao Nagatsuma. Participants will also have opportunities to build professional connections with researchers from different countries and take part in industrial and cultural visits in Vilnius.

Participants from Germany, the United Kingdom, Poland, Taiwan and Japan have already registered, making the symposium an international platform for exchanging knowledge, sharing ideas and developing new research collaborations.

Investing in future semiconductor competences

As Europe’s semiconductor sector continues to grow, the need for highly skilled specialists and strong research competences is becoming increasingly important. Connecting young researchers with international scientific communities, giving them opportunities to present their work and encouraging cross-border collaboration all contribute to Europe’s long-term technological resilience and competitiveness.

ChipsC²-LT contributes to strengthening this ecosystem by connecting semiconductor expertise, infrastructure, research and innovation in Lithuania. Events such as “Frontiers of Photonics & Semiconductor Technology 2026” provide an opportunity to bring these communities together and encourage new ideas, partnerships and collaboration.

Participants will also have the opportunity to receive a certificate and earn up to 2 ECTS credits.

Join the symposium in Vilnius

Date: 29 September–2 October 2026
Location: Vilnius, Lietuva
For: PhD students and early-career researchers
Registration deadline: 15 September 2026

Programme, registration and more information: https://fpst.ftmc.lt/

PhD students, early-career researchers, research groups and professionals working in photonics, semiconductor technologies and related fields are invited to join the symposium and contribute to an international community shaping the technologies of tomorrow.