Imec and TNO launch Holst Centre photonics lab
Imec and TNO (Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research) have officially launched the Holst Centre Photonics Lab, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to integrated photonics research and development in the Netherlands.
By advancing photonics research and fostering collaboration between industry and academia, the lab aims to bridge the gap between innovation and industrialisation for applications in sectors such as automotive, healthcare, and data communications. The new lab is located at High Tech Campus Eindhoven and partly funded by PhotonDelta.
Building on the PhotonDelta National Growth Fund plan initiative, which has propelled integrated photonics R&D in the Netherlands for over 2.5 years, the lab combines Imec’s expertise in areas such as tape-out validation, on-chip laser development, system testing, and application validation with TNO’s strengths in laser characterisation, free- space optics, and photonic chip integration.
Jesse Robbers, director Imec at Holst Centre: “With this lab, we’re taking an important step toward strengthening the Dutch integrated photonics ecosystem. By combining our complementary expertise with TNO and working closely with PhotonDelta, we hope to create an environment where photonics innovations can move more effectively from lab to market.”
Ton van Mol, Director TNO at Holst Centre: “The Holst Centre Photonics Lab exemplifies how strategic funding and collaboration can accelerate photonics innovation, reinforcing the Netherlands' position as a global leader in the field.”
Eelko Brinkhoff, CEO PhotonDelta: “Having a dedicated R&D centre like Holst Centre Photonics Lab, is a key proof point of integrated photonics emerging as a critical enabling technology. It provides the essential infrastructure to accelerate the development and deployment of photonic chip-based applications, a vital step from innovation to market-ready solutions.”
