Why is the Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser a hub of groundbreaking research? It is a place where the future of science is being shaped. We’re standing before the Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser. It is part of the Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas or FORTH.
IESL-FORTH was established in 1983. It quickly gained an international reputation. Its focus areas include Laser Science, Micro/nano-electronics, Polymer Science, Materials Science, and Astrophysics. Today, IESL holds a unique position on the global scientific stage in these areas.
IESL has several key objectives. It conducts high-quality basic and applied research. It aims to develop expertise in advanced technologies. These technologies are then used to create innovative products and services. It transfers knowledge to benefit Greek and European industry. IESL also provides education and training. It trains young scientists in optoelectronics and micro/nano-electronics. The institute covers materials science, engineering, laser science, and applications.
Since 1990, IESL has operated the Ultraviolet Laser Facility. It is a part of the LASERLAB EUROPE research infrastructure. IESL is also involved in other European research infrastructures. These include CHARISMA for Cultural Heritage. It contributes to NFFA for nanoscience and EUSMI for soft-matter research.
IESL received the highest grade in the last evaluation of Greek Research Institutes. An International Committee of Experts gave it a 5.0/5.0. This recognition highlights the institute’s commitment to excellence.
IESL participates in Innovation-EL. It serves as an access-site for various processes. These include polymer synthesis and materials growth. They also include micro-nanofabrication and advanced material characterization.
FORTH was also founded in 1983. It is one of Greece’s largest research centers. It boasts well-organized facilities and highly qualified personnel. FORTH is known worldwide as a top-level research institution.
FORTH reports to the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation. This is part of the Ministry of Development and Investments. FORTH conducts specialized scientific research. Its focus is on interdisciplinary R&D activities. Areas of interest include lasers, nanotechnology, and biotechnology. Others are computer science, robotics, and social sciences.
FORTH has ten Research Institutes. The headquarters are in Heraklion, Crete. One notable group is the Ultrafast Laser Micro and Nano Processing group. It is led by Dr. Emmanuel Stratakis. This group focuses on laser-based processes and laser-matter interactions.
Dr. Stratakis’s research interests include laser interactions with materials. Applications include biomimetic micro- and nano-structuring. He also works on organic and perovskite photovoltaics and biomaterials processing. He directs the European Nanoscience Facility of FORTH. He is also the Greece Ambassador for the European Innovation Council.
Dr. Athanasia Kostopoulou is a physicist and chemist. Her work involves the synthesis of nanocrystal systems. Dr. Konstantinos Brintakis studies the properties of nanomaterials. Dr. Eleni Petala is an innovation manager. She links research to industrial and societal applications.
FORTH’s history began with five Greek scientists working abroad. They envisioned a research center in Crete. The Research Center of Crete expanded. It added institutes like the Institute of Mediterranean Studies. Skinakas Observatory also commenced operations.
Over the years, FORTH has become the premier research organization in Greece. It consistently ranks first in scientific quality and international recognition. The Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser is a vital part of this success. It drives innovation and scientific advancement. It helps to shape the world we will live in tomorrow.