Once a year, the ISSP UL proudly hosts an alumni event that brings together the remarkable individuals who have contributed to its success over the years. This year was no exception, as former and current employees gathered to reconnect, reminisce, and discuss the future of the institute they hold dear.
The evening commenced with words of welcome from Anatolijs Šarakovskis, the head of the Laboratory of Spectroscopy, who set a warm and inviting tone for the gathering. Following his introduction, the director of ISSP UL, Andris Anspoks, took to the floor to share exciting updates about ongoing projects and recent achievements, captivating the audience with a glimpse into the institute’s vibrant present.
As the atmosphere evolved into an open discussion, the alumni—many of whom now play significant roles in various companies—expressed a keen interest in exploring collaboration opportunities with ISSP UL. They were particularly intrigued by the institute’s recent commercialization projects and the advancement of research that continues to place ISSP UL on the map.
Juris Purāns, the head of the Laboratory of Thin Films, took the opportunity to delve into the details of the innovative SWEB project, highlighting the impressive Roll-to-roll equipment that had just been acquired. His enthusiasm was contagious, sparking interest among attendees eager to understand the potential of such advancements.
Jānis Muižnieks, a sales specialist from “Materize”, provided a concise yet informative presentation about the platform, adding another layer of insight into the entrepreneurial spirit surrounding the alumni network.
Laura Kalniņa, the senior expert in human resources at ISSP UL, and Ainārs Ozols, head of the Development Department, fostered connections among attendees.
As the evening progressed, conversations flowed freely. Former ISSP UL employees engaged with old colleagues and shared their current pursuits, creating a vibrant tapestry of exchanged ideas and experiences. Andris Krūmiņš, the former ISSP UL director, added his reflections on the evolution of the institute and its impact.
Colleagues such as Aleksejs Kuzmins, head of the EXAFS Spectroscopy Laboratory; Maira Elksne, who leads the Micro and Nanodevices Laboratory; and Matīss Piešiņš, a researcher at the hi-tech company JSC SIDRABE, shared updates on their current endeavors. Guntis Mārciņš and Andris Voitkāns, both integral parts of “GroGlass”, discussed their innovations in anti-reflective coatings, while Jurģis Grūbe brought insights from his role at “LightGuide International.”
As the event wound down, it was clear that this annual gathering was not just a celebration of the past but a bridge to future collaborations and innovations. With connections rekindled and new ideas sparked, the ISSP UL alumni event once again underscored the spirit of community and collaboration that defines the institute’s legacy.
