VUB B-PHOT successfully launched its first 360 CARLA Health Symposium in Brussels

On 22–23 April, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel’s Brussels Photonics team (VUB B-PHOT) hosted the first Health CARLA Symposium, co-located with the B-PHOT Student Chapter’s annual Light Night Photonic event. Held at the Pilar Box and the newly opened LIC Learning & Innovation Center of ULB-VUB, the two-day symposium brought together students, young researchers, and experts to explore career opportunities in Health, Biotech, and Medical Photonics. 

As part of the 360 CARLA career development program, the symposium offered early-career researcher’s insights into the photonics and health ecosystem. With 86 registrations from over five countries—74 in person and 12 online—more than 65 participants joined across both days, actively engaging in the sessions. 

The program brought together 13 speakers and 4 moderators, offering career talks, alumni testimonials, and technical presentations. Keynotes included Prof. David Sampson (Australia) on biophotonics and biomedical optics, and Prof. John Dudley (France) on global science outreach initiatives such as the International Day of Light and the International Year of Quantum. 

By blending career development, technical excellence, and networking, the Health CARLA Symposium 2025 strengthened the link between photonics and health applications, while showcasing Brussels as a hub for emerging talent in medical photonics. 

Sessions ranged from nonlinear optics and biosensing with optofluidic chips to soft skills, such as science communication. Interactive panels featuring alumni and industry experts, along with a Mentor-Mentee Mixer & networking dinner, provided participants with valuable opportunities to exchange experiences and build connections. 

Collocating the symposium with Light Night boosted engagement from the B-PHOT Student Chapter community, further supported by an Optica Special Grant that enabled the participation of keynote speaker Prof. David Sampson. Broad dissemination through CARLAhub, VUB B-PHOT networks, and consortium partners ensured strong outreach. 

Beyond technical talks, the program highlighted career preparedness through sessions on VUB’s master’s programs, science communication, and UNESCO’s health initiatives. A hybrid format with free live streaming ensured broad accessibility and connections across academia, industry, and global initiatives. 

The symposium received exceptionally positive feedback. Participants rated the event almost 5 out of 5 overall, with speakers unanimously giving it top marks. “Big thanks to the organizers for bringing together different components of health technologies and science in one place and creating such a great diversity among speakers, participants, and topics,” one participant shared. Another noted, “I will recommend others because it opens possibilities for us to have a career in the health sciences and research.” 

Speakers praised the atmosphere and organization. “Seldom have I attended such a well-run or positive event. The general atmosphere was inclusive and warm, as well as engaged and proactive. It was an honour to participate,” one keynote speaker reflected. 

By combining professional development, technical excellence, and community engagement, the Health CARLA Symposium 2025 successfully strengthened the link between photonics research and health applications. As one of the thematic verticals of the CARLA program, it highlighted the dynamic career pathways in medical photonics and reaffirmed Brussels as a hub for emerging talent in the field.