Photonics Laboratory

At a Glance

The Abbe School of Photonics (ASP) offers a full-scale academic education in optics and photonics at one of the oldest and most reputable universities in Germany.
Photonics Laboratory
Image: MPSP/FSU Jena

Here in Jena, the cradle of optics, we benefit from a unique ecosystem of photonics that offers a wide range of opportunities through close cooperation between the University and various local institutes and companies. It is our School’s privilege to be able to offer this exceptional research environment and to provide multifaceted learning opportunities to  our students. Our School's interdisciplinary education programs are embedded within the extensive academic framework of the Abbe Center of Photonics. We offer both master's degree programs (M.Sc. Photonics and M.Sc. Physics with a focus on photonics) as well as a broad doctoral program in optics and photonics. All available ASP modules in optics and photonics are open to all M.Sc. students enrolled in the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy de.

The main goal of our concept and philosophy is the establishment of one of the world's leading educational centers in optics and photonics in Jena, Germany. The ASP was shaped by our university’s long-standing teaching tradition and is supported by its uniquely vast spectrum of research activities in the field of light sciences. Our qualification strategy is completely research-oriented and based on the principles of academic freedom, competitive research conditions and internationalization at all levels of education and research.

The School offers outstanding qualification opportunities in the areas of optics and photonics at undergraduate and graduate levels. We recognize that many of our graduates will continue a research-focused career. Therefore, the training programs of the ASP aim to promote and optimally link both academic and practical learning by providing additional career opportunities in research-centered companies. Thus, all our competitive career development measures are designed to lay the foundation for successful careers both in academia and industry.

  • International Rankings

    According to national and global rankings, the Friedrich Schiller University Jena is one of the best universities in Germany and among the top 11% globally. Further, we are internationally recognized as a world leader in optics, photonics and quantum research and education.

    Historical physics lecture hall at the Max-Wien-Platz in Jena.
    Image: Jan-Peter Kasper (University of Jena)

  • Ernst Abbe

    Ernst Karl Abbe was a German physicist and Professor at the University of Jena. Abbe is best known for his work in optics and diffraction theory.

    Monument in Jena in memory of Ernst Abbe and his famous diffraction limit formula.
    Image: Jan-Peter Kasper (University of Jena)

  • Why photonics?

    The development of photonics and photonic technology has far-reaching, revolutionary potential in many fields of science, medicine, and technology.

    Application of multicolor holograms in the lab.
    Image: Thomas Ernstling/ Gruner & Jahr.

  • Jena – City of Science

    The city of Jena offers a fascinating combination of impressive history and an innovative, international and research-oriented industry. Enjoy the new "Jena Uncovered" video!

    Nocturnal Jena from bird's eye view.
    Image: Jan-Peter Kasper (University of Jena)

  • Our University

    The Friedrich Schiller University Jena, founded in 1558, is one of the oldest universities in Germany.

    Group picture in the University's central courtyard at the occassion of the 450th anniversary.
    Image: Jan-Peter Kasper (University of Jena)

  • Past Events

    Throughout the academic year, ASP and partners organize and support exclusive workshops and events for and together with the ASP students.

    Jena impressions 2024
    Image: Johannes Kretzschmar

  • Testimonials

    With their vast experience and their cosmopolitan background in science, ASP visiting scholars regularly offer valuable feedback on our curriculum based on their personal perspectives. Some of these impressions are given here.

    Abbe School of Photonics Career Day and Counseling.
    Image: Anne Günther (University of Jena)

  • How to reach us

    Our highly specialized administrative staff works in close cooperation with the principal scientists, the University’s institutions, funding agencies and ASP’s industrial partners.

    ASP group 2016
    Image: Christoph Worsch (University of Jena)

In a Nutshell

Students of the M.Sc. Photonics program in 2013.

Students of the M.Sc. Photonics program in 2013.

Image: Ricarda Knetsch

ASP was founded in 2008 by a public-private partnership between the German federal and Thuringian state governments, the University of Jena and the German photonics industry. Our School also has a strong background in providing Joint Master's Degree programs. Close collaboration with its industrial partners distinguishes the ASP. To sustain our partners' exceptional economic development long into the future, we have made it our mission to educate highly qualified candidates for exceptional professional career paths in the German photonics and quantum tech industry.