Top 10 Photonics experts to follow – A Future-Ready Guide for 2026
Summary
Dr. John Dudley: Chair of the Quantum Engineering Science and Technology group at the University of Franche-Comté, Dudley’s work on optical pulses and nonlinear photonics has been influential in understanding the properties and applications of light. Dr. Federico Capasso: A profe…
Key Takeaway
- John Dudley: Chair of the Quantum Engineering Science and Technology group at the University of Franche-Comté, Dudley’s work on optical pulses and nonlinear photonics has been influential in understanding the properties and applications of light.
- Federico Capasso: A professor at Harvard, Capasso is renowned for his pioneering work on quantum cascade lasers and meta-materials, pushing the boundaries of photonics and optics.
- Michal Lipson: At Columbia University, Lipson’s work on silicon photonics has been foundational in integrating photonic devices at the micro-scale, paving the way for faster and more efficient optical communication.
- Nader Engheta: A professor at the University of Pennsylvania, Engheta is known for his work in nano-optics and metamaterials, exploring the intricate interactions between light and materials at the nanoscale.
- Ursula Keller: At ETH Zurich, Keller’s innovations in ultrafast laser technology and her insights into light-matter interactions have advanced applications from communications to medicine.
Body
Dr. John Dudley: Chair of the Quantum Engineering Science and Technology group at the University of Franche-Comté, Dudley’s work on optical pulses and nonlinear photonics has been influential in understanding the properties and applications of light. Dr. Federico Capasso: A professor at Harvard, Capasso is renowned for his pioneering work on quantum cascade lasers and meta-materials, pushing the boundaries of photonics and optics. Dr. Michal Lipson: At Columbia University, Lipson’s work on silicon photonics has been foundational in integrating photonic devices at the micro-scale, paving the way for faster and more efficient optical communication. Dr. Nader Engheta: A professor at the University of Pennsylvania, Engheta is known for his work in nano-optics and metamaterials, exploring the intricate interactions between light and materials at the nanoscale. Dr. Ursula Keller: At ETH Zurich, Keller’s innovations in ultrafast laser technology and her insights into light-matter interactions have advanced applications from communications to medicine. Dr. Aydogan Ozcan: Holding a professorship at UCLA, Ozcan focuses on computational biophotonics, developing novel microscopy and sensing methods using photonics principles. Dr. Andrea Alù: At the City University of New York, Alù’s explorations into electromagnetism, metamaterials, and photonics have unveiled new possibilities for controlling the propagation of light. Dr. Miles Padgett: At the University of Glasgow, Padgett specializes in optical physics, particularly in orbital angular momentum of light, which holds potential for high-capacity data transmission. Dr. Jelena Vuckovic: Leading the Nanoscale and Quantum Photonics Lab at Stanford, Vuckovic’s work on photonic crystals and quantum technologies promises advancements in computing and communication systems. Dr. Susumu Noda: A professor at Kyoto University, Noda is recognized for his contributions to photonic crystal technology, shaping the way we manipulate light in photonic devices.
Final Takeaway
Decide what matters, execute in short cycles, and make progress visible every week—so you enter 2026 with momentum.
About Ian Khan – Keynote Speaker & The Futurist
Ian Khan, the Futurist, is a USA Today & Publishers Weekly National Bestselling Author of Undisrupted, Thinkers50 Future Readiness shortlist, and a International Top Keynote Speaker. He is Voted Top 25 Futurists worldwide and a media personality focused on future-ready leadership, AI productivity and ethics, and purpose-driven growth. Ian hosts The Futurist on Amazon Prime Video, and founded Impact Story (K-12 Robotics & AI). He is frequently featured on CNN, BBC, Bloomberg, and Fast Company.
Mini FAQ: About Ian Khan
Does Ian provide post-keynote resources?
Yes—toolkits, reading lists, and Q&A follow-ups to maintain progress.
What formats does Ian offer?
Mainstage keynotes, breakouts, executive briefings, and private workshops.
How far in advance should we book?
As early as possible—popular dates fill quickly.

