Photonics and Smart Materials, Technologies and Engineering Systems

Encompasses various types of materials, thin films and coatings, technologies, equipment, devices and systems for photonics, electronics and microfluidics, engineering systems, nanotechnology, nanocomposites and ceramics.

The Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL) is an internationally recognized leader in materials science and cross-disciplinary topics, conducting competitive research, educating students and offering innovative solutions for industrial needs.

Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI) specializes in the development of Smart Embedded Cooperative systems covering the following research areas: Extremely precise event timing, Remote sensing and space data processing, Robotics and machine perception, Signal processing and embedded intelligence, Smart sensors and IoT.

The sector’s mission is to create prerequisites for the sustainable, knowledge- and innovation-oriented growth of the photonics, smart materials, technologies, and engineering systems industries, which will contribute to the development of the national economy and strengthen Latvia’s export capacity.

Fore more information, please visit invesinlatvia.org | Key sectors – Photonics, smart materials, technologies & engineering.

Industry focus

• Creating a microchip design center of excellence – in December 2022, during the annual 5G Techritory event, 12 partners signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which aims to establish a partnership to develop a semiconductor ecosystem in Latvia. See more here.
• Latvia showcases a rich heritage in space technology, particularly in engineering and smart materials. Modern companies have built upon this legacy, advancing these technologies to create innovative and powerful solutions for international space missions and research. Today, around 50 organizations in Latvia are actively involved in the space sector. For more information, visit Latvian technology in space.
• Latvia is internationally recognized for its expertise in quantum computing and nanoelectronics. In 2023, the Quantum Initiative was established, bringing together Latvia’s leading scientists and teaching staff in the field of quantum technologies to support the development of knowledge, skills, technologies, and ideas related to the practical applications of quantum physics. All the initiative partners are listed here.
• The ‘Smart Materials, Photonics, Technologies, and Engineering Ecosystems’ project aims to establish a co-creation ecosystem to drive development in Latvia’s priority sectors. This includes photonics, smart materials, related technologies, and engineering systems based on scientific breakthroughs and commercialization in Latvia. ISSP UL | Projects
• Deep Tech Atelier – the largest science-intensive technology conference in the Baltics.