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Writer's pictureSascha Lummitsch

Empowering Women Researchers: Introducing the Engage Program by ams-OSRAM

At SpectroNet, we are proud to support initiatives that drive innovation, foster diversity, and build a sustainable future for optoelectronics and related industries. In collaboration with our cluster partner ams-OSRAM, we are thrilled to highlight the relaunch of the Engage program in 2025. This pioneering initiative is part of ams-OSRAM’s project "Efficient Optoelectronics for a Sustainable and Resilient European Semiconductor Ecosystem - OptoSuRe", funded within the IPCEI ME/CT framework.


What is OptoSuRe?

The OptoSuRe project is a groundbreaking endeavor by ams-OSRAM that focuses on advancing research and development for next-generation, highly efficient, and integrated optoelectronic semiconductor devices. By fostering innovation and establishing the necessary framework conditions, the project aims to bolster Europe’s semiconductor ecosystem, ensuring it remains sustainable and resilient in the face of global challenges.


Introducing the Engage Program

As part of the spillover activities under OptoSuRe, the Engage program is designed to empower women researchers, helping them overcome the systemic obstacles and biases that often hinder their entrepreneurial aspirations. Through targeted training and support, Engage provides participants with the skills and confidence needed to transform their innovative ideas into viable commercial ventures.

This initiative aligns perfectly with SpectroNet’s mission to support the growth and diversification of the optics and photonics sector by fostering inclusivity and innovation.


Program Overview

Engage is a focused training program that operates during the Ideation phase of business development. The program’s primary goal is to identify innovative ideas and nurture an entrepreneurial mindset among women researchers. By equipping participants with essential skills, Engage serves as a springboard for the initial stages of business development.


Key Features of Engage:

  • Duration: A 9-week comprehensive training program

  • Target Audience: Women at the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey, including Master’s, PhD, and Post-Doc researchers

  • Delivery: Virtual sessions to enable pan-European participation

  • Cost: Free of charge and obligation-free

  • Opportunities: Participants will qualify for further entrepreneurship and business development training


Areas of Focus:

Participants are encouraged to apply if their research or ideas align with the following areas:

  • Optics and Photonics

  • Micro- and Optoelectronics: From components to systems and applications such as visualization, illumination, sensing, and medicine/health

  • Digitization: Excluding pure software or machine learning/AI development

  • Smart Manufacturing

  • Sustainability: Projects that integrate energy and resource efficiency


Why Engage Matters

Women in STEM and entrepreneurship often face unique barriers, including limited access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Engage addresses these challenges head-on, providing a supportive environment where participants can:

  • Develop critical entrepreneurial skills

  • Gain insights into the commercialization of scientific ideas

  • Build a network of like-minded innovators

By supporting female researchers, Engage contributes to a more inclusive and innovative European entrepreneurial landscape.


Stakeholder Briefing: Learn More

To share more details about this exciting program, we invite academic institutions, research centers, national research organizations, and enterprise development agencies to join a dedicated stakeholder briefing.


Details of the Briefing:

  • Date: Wednesday, 29 January 2025

  • Time: 11:00 CET

  • Location: Online (via Zoom)



Spread the Word

We encourage you to share this information with female researchers in your organization and networks. Together, we can inspire and empower the next generation of women entrepreneurs, fostering a stronger, more diverse innovation ecosystem in Europe.


For more information about SpectroNet’s initiatives and our collaboration with ams-OSRAM, visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s work together to shape the future of optoelectronics and beyond!

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