Neda Baktash, from Coherent’s Glasgow site, has become an Optica Ambassador for 2025.
Neda says, “Established in 2002, the Optica Foundation carries out charitable activities in support of the society’s student and early career communities. Becoming an Optica Ambassador is a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation of young people to enter the optics and photonics field, and I was privileged to be accepted as one of the 10 Ambassadors for the class of 2025.
THE ROLE OF AN OPTICA AMBASSADOR
“Ambassadors begin their service by guiding students and early career professionals in navigating their career paths, integrating into the industry, and leveraging networking opportunities.
“The 10 Ambassadors can benefit from the Optica Foundation stipend to support Ambassador-organised initiatives. Additionally, they are recognised in Optica publications.
“Interested Optica members can showcase their experience within Optica and other optics and photonics societies, as well as their plans for the first year of service, by applying under Ambassadors| Optica.
“As an Optica Ambassador and senior member, I have begun my ambassadorship by introducing Optica at the University of Isfahan in Iran, followed by an outreach session for grade 10 students in Scotland.
“I continued my service by attending ILAS 2025 and also presenting Optica at the University of Sussex, in addition to hosting online webinars to cover the transition from academia to industry. I am looking forward to the upcoming programmes and initiatives.”
Image: Neda Baktash (right) at ILAS 2025 with Yann Amouroux, Optics Director, Europe
Contact: Neda Baktash