As an external and independent advisory committee, the advisory board monitors the scientific quality of our research institution. The evaluation also offers the employees a valuable opportunity to showcase the breadth and strength of their scientific work to a committee of scientists internationally renowned in their fields.

The evaluation takes place on a regular basis. During their four-day stay, the advisory board members, led by Prof. Dr. Shanhui Fan (Stanford University, USA), gained insights into MPL’s work through a diverse program. The evaluation was also attended by advisory board members Prof. Dr. Antonio Acín (ICFO – the Institute of Photonic Sciences, Spain), Prof. Dr. Michal Lipson (Columbia University, USA), Prof. Dr. Aydogan Ozcan (University of California, Los Angeles, USA), Prof. Dr. Miles Padgett (University of Glasgow, United Kingdom), and Prof. Dr. Demetri Psaltis (EPFL STI IMT LO, Switzerland). The program ranged from an opening lecture by Managing Director Prof. Dr. Florian Marquardt to 17 scientific presentations and 24 discussions with various status groups.

Nearly 250 institute members from the divisions, research groups, Technology Development & Service Units, Core Facilities, and Administration were involved in the preparations and implementation of the evaluation. In a program lasting a total of 33 hours, they provided a comprehensive overview of the institute's work during the evaluation period from 2023 to 2025, with the help of 120 scientific posters, among other things.

Highlights of the program included tours of MPL and the Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin (MPZPM). Members of the advisory board visited various optical physics and biological chemistry laboratories. There were also many opportunities to interact personally with the Vice President of the Max Planck Society, Prof. Dr. Claudia Felser, which was particularly appreciated.

The three days were characterized by a very lively and open atmosphere. The MPL is deeply honored by the great interest shown by the advisory board members in the institute’s research questions and projects, and would like to thank them for the inspiring exchange.