It is increasingly recognized that diversity is critical for knowledge and innovation, both in industry and academia. Photonics is one of the key emerging technologies that can become the technology of the 21^st century. Women represent far less than 10% of the workforce in photonics in most countries in Northern Europe, including the Netherlands. This figure drops even lower when looking at leadership positions.

PhotonicsNL, in collaboration with the Optical Sciences group, University of Twente, the IEEE Photonics Society Benelux Chapter, the FOM and the Female Faculty Network Twente (FFNT) and the MESA+ institute, University of Twente organize, for the first time, this "Women in Photonics in NL" workshop. The main objectives of the workshop are to provide role models to young female physicists and engineers that are starting to work in the field, increase awareness on the gender gap and to provide the opportunity for female scientists to increase their professional network.

The workshop counts with several scientific presentations delivered by successful women at different stages of their academic and industrial careers. A panel discussion will follow, in which the panelists will share their career experiences and in which important topics such as how to attract and retain female talent in photonics, mind bugs and life-work balance will be discussed. A networking lunch and end-of-the-day borrel will give ample opportunity to meet new colleagues and increase the professional network.

Registration is free of charge, please email ostnw@utwente.nl with:

• your name
• job position
• company/institute
• phone number

Program

wednesday oct. 28th, 2015