International

Trades MSCA DN

1/1/2026 – 12/31/2029

TRADES is an international doctoral training network focused on the development of next-generation photonic components for high-power laser systems operating in the 1 and 2 µm spectral regions. These lasers play a crucial role in a wide range of applications, from telecommunications and industrial manufacturing to medical technologies and scientific research.

Funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) programme, the project brings together leading academic and industrial partners to train 15 doctoral candidates through a highly interdisciplinary research and innovation programme.

The project addresses one of the major challenges in photonics - the development of highly efficient and durable dispersive optical components capable of operating under extreme laser conditions. Within TRADES, researchers focus on advanced sub-wavelength grating and waveguide structures designed for both intra-cavity and extra-cavity applications in high-power laser systems.

To achieve this, the fellows explore state-of-the-art deposition, lithography, and etching technologies, pushing fabrication techniques to their technological limits. The objective is to develop optical gratings with efficiency exceeding 99.9 % and exceptional laser-induced damage resistance (LIDT > 1 J/cm² for sub-picosecond laser pulses).

Beyond scientific excellence, TRADES strongly emphasizes innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology transfer. The doctoral candidates receive hands-on training in innovation management, enterprise development, and business planning, enabling them to transform research outcomes into real-world products and services.

By combining cutting-edge research with practical innovation skills, TRADES contributes to the development of a new generation of highly qualified photonics experts prepared to drive future technological progress and strengthen Europe’s innovation ecosystem.

Objective

The main objective of TRADES is to bridge the skills gap in the European photonics sector by educating and training highly specialized researchers capable of developing innovative enabling photonic technologies.

The project delivers a comprehensive research and training programme covering the full product development cycle - from initial concept design and sustainable manufacturing to precise characterization and implementation into real applications.

Through close collaboration between academia and industry, TRADES equips doctoral candidates with interdisciplinary scientific, technical, and entrepreneurial competencies necessary for future careers in photonics research, development, and innovation.

Project Information

Project Acronym: TRADES
Project Title: Training Researchers in Advanced Dispersive Elements for High-Power Laser Systems

Grant Agreement ID: 101226599
DOI: 10.3030/101226599

Project Duration: January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2029

LiN profile

Coordination

The TRADES project is coordinated by University of Stuttgart.

Project Consortium

TRADES brings together leading European universities and research institutions with expertise in photonics, laser technologies, material science, and advanced optical component development. The consortium combines complementary scientific and technological capabilities to provide doctoral candidates with a highly interdisciplinary and international research environment.

The project consortium includes:

Associated Partners

In addition to the core consortium members, TRADES collaborates with a strong network of associated academic and industrial partners from across Europe. These organizations contribute valuable expertise, technological know-how, infrastructure, and industry perspective, helping to strengthen the practical relevance and innovation potential of the project.

The associated partners include: