Recently, the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL) organised the DOC Riga x OptoMeeting 2026 joint conference, which for the first time brought together the best of the "Developments in Optics and Communications" (DOC) and "OptoMeeting" events to share knowledge and advance research in optical sciences.
A crucial stepping stone for early-career researchers and students, the conference offered participants engaging poster sessions and contributed talks, where they could present their research to an international audience, gain valuable feedback, and build foundational networks.
The joint conference featured a comprehensive program of invited and contributed talks across five sections:
- Biophotonics: Exploring the intersection of optical technologies and biological sciences.
- Laser Physics and Spectroscopy: Delving into fundamental laser mechanics and light-matter interactions.
- Optical Materials and Phenomena: Investigating new materials and their unique optical properties.
- Optical Communication: Advancing the technologies that drive modern data transmission.
Vision Science: Bridging the gap between physical optics and human visual perception.
Both conferences share a rich legacy that dates back to 2005. DOC originated in Riga as "Development in Optics and Photonics" (DOP), organized by the University of Latvia SPIE student chapter and featuring around 40 international participants. Meanwhile, OPTO traces its roots to the SPIE International Congress in Wrocław, traditionally organized by the OPTICA & SPIE Student Chapters from Wroclaw University of Science and Technology.
By joining forces this year, DOC Riga x OptoMeeting 2026 multiplied its impact, successfully fostering scientific excellence and shaping the future innovators of optics and communications.
