Carla Hub

The CARLA programs were born a result of the growing need within the photonics ecosystem for more diverse talent to sustain the growth that the field is experiencing. These initiatives aim to inspire university students and early-career researchers to pursue careers in photonics. In this framework the CARLA and 360 CARLA projects were born. The first CARLA project, launched in 2020 under the EU Horizon 2020 framework, set the bases of the overall CARLA programs focusing on the design and implementation of the CARLA camps, the photonics career symposiums. Since then, more than 20 events were organized with the participation of over 1,500 students and researchers across Europe. Given the very positive feedback from participants and speakers, and the growing involvement of academic and industry institutions, the program is expanding with the EU Horizon Europe project 360 CARLA. This evolution introduces the 360 CARLA round-up program which will include symposia, training sessions, and experiences centred on innovation and entrepreneurship around four key photonics applications: 1. Health: Biotech and Medical Photonics 2. Quantum Technologies and Communications 3. Energy, Environment, and Sustainability 4. Manufacturing / Industry 4.0 The CARLA programs provide university students and early-stage researchers with a roadmap for better employability while creating valuable networking opportunities with key stakeholders in the photonics ecosystem. For more information, please contact us at carlahub@icfo.eu or visit This project has received funding from the European Union Horizon Europe research and innovation program under grant agreement No 101135838.