In-booth talks In-booth talks

In-booth talks

We’re thrilled to invite you to our in-booth talks at Photonics West! Join us for dynamic discussions and live insights from our experts as we explore advancements in photonics. These engaging sessions are designed to spark innovation and offer a closer look at how we’re shaping the future of technology across industries. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by the latest breakthroughs.

 

Please note that the schedule below is subject to change. Refer to this page for the latest updates.

 

Photonic capabilities

Hamamatsu OptiBlock system - A modular photonics platform that accelerates photonics innovations

January 20, 2026 @ 11:00 AM - 11:20 AM PST 

 

R&D projects involving new optical designs are inherently complex. Challenges frequently arise from selecting detectors or light sources that precisely meet performance requirements, as well as from integrating these components with the appropriate drive, readout, and supporting electronics necessary to obtain reliable data. Such difficulties often extend development timelines, delaying product launches, reducing competitiveness in emerging markets, jeopardizing research funding, and, in the case of start-ups, potentially contributing to product-launch failures.

 

In this session, we introduce Hamamatsu’s OptiBlock System—a modular photonics platform that enables users to design custom, plug-and-play optical blocks that are both interchangeable and scalable. These blocks can often be fabricated using standard 3D printing methods and are compatible with thousands of Hamamatsu detectors and light sources, accelerating innovation across academic, industrial, and commercial applications.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki



Jake Li is the Marketing Manager at Hamamatsu Corporation, where he oversees OEM marketing activities across North America. He brings extensive experience in product marketing, project management, and new market development. Jake specializes in optical components, including photodetectors such as Hamamatsu’s MPPC (a type of silicon photomultiplier), SPAD (single-pixel avalanche diode), APD (avalanche photodiode), and PIN photodiodes, as well as a wide range of light emitters used in photonics-based systems. He has supported numerous applications and markets within the photonics industry, including automotive LiDAR, medical imaging, radiation monitoring, point-of-care diagnostics, oil well logging, and others. Jake holds a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology.


Shaping the future with next generation photon counting devices for LiDAR, PET, quantum, and life sciences

January 20, 2026 @ 11:30 AM - 11:50 AM PST 

 

Photon counting technologies are rapidly advancing, opening new possibilities in medical imaging, automotive sensing, and the life sciences. In this presentation, we will showcase Hamamatsu Photonics’ latest developments in single photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) and silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs). We will provide an overview of the current product portfolio, outline our development roadmap, and highlight upcoming innovations across these detector platforms. Finally, we will demonstrate how next generation SPAD and SiPM technologies are enabling high impact applications including PET imaging, automotive LiDAR, quantum computing, and particle characterization for life sciences and pharmaceutical research, and examine their expanding role in shaping the future of photon detection.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki





Terumasa Nagano is a Manager in the Solid State Division, 59th Department, at Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. He has dedicated nearly 20 years to the development of silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) and single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs). He currently leads efforts focused on the development and commercialization of SiPM and SPAD technologies for LiDAR applications. He earned his master’s degree in Engineering from Tohoku University in 2003.

Quantum

LCOS-SLM and quantum: Enabling today and empowering tomorrow

January 20, 2026 @ 2:00 PM - 2:20 PM PST 

 

The Hamamatsu LCOS-SLM enables a range of quantum applications, including neutral atom trapping, optical tweezing, and quantum gate addressing. Its exceptional phase stability, high light utilization efficiency, and precise modulation fidelity make it ideal for manipulating light fields at the single-atom or photon level. These capabilities allow researchers to achieve greater control and scalability in advanced quantum experiments and systems.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki




Brandon Gorakhnauth is a Marketing Engineer at Hamamatsu, where he creates and executes the market strategy for additive manufacturing, nuclear fusion, and aerospace applications within the North American region. As an engineer by trade, he transitioned from business analytics to photonics engineering while working at Hamamatsu. Brandon draws upon his diverse range of experiences to drive an equally wide range of internal projects and external OEM markets at Hamamatsu. He has a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics and Information Technology from Rutgers University - New Brunswick, New Jersey.


NKT Photonics – Fiber laser solutions for quantum technologies

January 20, 2026 @ 2:30 PM - 2:50 PM PST 

 

Learn how NKT Photonics’ fiber lasers and photonic crystal fibers are leading the way in enabling quantum technologies at the laboratory and commercial scale. From ultra-narrow linewidth systems for your atomic transition of choice to supercontinuum lasers for broadband characterization, we deliver solutions for innovators in the growing quantum community.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki




Corban Murphey is a Sales Manager for Scientific Quantum in the Americas at NKT Photonics, where he works with quantum researchers to advance their work in quantum computing, metrology, communication, and sensing. His expertise is in laser spectroscopy and nanophotonics. He holds a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh and a Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill.


System-level perspective on scalable trapped-ion and neutral-atom quantum computers

January 20, 2026 @ 3:00 PM - 3:20 PM PST

 

Quantum computers promise to tackle some of the toughest challenges, from accelerating drug discovery to developing better batteries. Realizing this potential requires scaling not only the number of qubits but also maintaining precision, managing overhead, and implementing effective error correction. Photonics plays a central role in this effort enabling gate operations, qubit readout, and system interconnects. This talk presents a system-level perspective on scaling trapped-ion and neutral-atom quantum computers, emphasizing the importance of system engineering in achieving fault-tolerant performance. Drawing on Hamamatsu’s expertise in advanced photonic components and system integration, it explores how system-level complexity can be harnessed to build scalable, high-performance quantum platforms.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki




Klea Dhimitri is an Applications Engineer at Hamamatsu Corporation, where she leads quantum-focused activities across North America and collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D groups in Japan. Her expertise includes advanced photodetectors and imaging technologies—PMTs, SPADs, MPPCs, and qCMOS cameras—and their integration into cutting-edge quantum systems. Klea also facilitates Hamamatsu's strategic collaborations with leading researchers and innovation hubs to advance photonics in quantum applications. She holds a B.A. in Physics and Mathematics from CUNY Hunter College.


The heart of quantum sensor modules: How vapor cells impact quality and reliability

January 20, 2026 @ 3:30 PM - 3:50 PM PST

 

Join us at our booth for an exclusive introduction to Hamamatsu Photonics’ quantum sensor roadmap. We’ll share how our deep expertise in vapor cell technology is shaping the next generation of quantum sensors and what’s just around the corner.  For customers seeking unmatched reliability and long operational life, we’ll showcase how our patented innovations deliver industry-leading performance in optically pumped magnetometers (OPM), chip-scale atomic clocks (CSAC), and laser frequency stabilization modules, all customizable for your most demanding applications.  Be among the first to learn about our upcoming OPM release and explore how Hamamatsu can help accelerate your quantum sensor business. Stop by to see our latest technology and start the conversation about your future in quantum sensing!

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki

 

 

Naruaki Imaoka is an Applications Engineer at Business Planning Department of the Electron Tube Division at Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. He is involved in product development and strategy for quantum sensors, especially chip scale atomic clocks (CSAC) and compact optical frequency reference modules. His work incorporates understanding the applications, manufacturing constraints and physical limits of vapor cell systems. He earned a Master's degree in Physics from Osaka University in 2015 and completed doctoral coursework in physics in 2020.

Lasers

Going nuclear: Fusion solutions at Hamamatsu

January 21, 2026 @ 11:00 AM - 11:20 AM PST 

 

During this talk, we will discuss the business conditions in the United States that is creating positive pressure for Nuclear Fusion adoption. In addition, we will cover  Hamamatsu’s developments in high power diode laser technologies for ICF/IFE, and Hamamatsu solutions for plasma monitoring, such as scintillators, photomultiplier tubes, and cameras.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki




Brandon Gorakhnauth is a Marketing Engineer at Hamamatsu, where he creates and executes the market strategy for additive manufacturing, nuclear fusion, and aerospace applications within the North American region. As an engineer by trade, he transitioned from business analytics to photonics engineering while working at Hamamatsu. Brandon draws upon his diverse range of experiences to drive an equally wide range of internal projects and external OEM markets at Hamamatsu. He has a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics and Information Technology from Rutgers University - New Brunswick, New Jersey.


Compact tunable lasers in near-mid infrared regions and its applications

January 21, 2026 @ 11:30 AM - 11:50 AM PST 

 

In recent years, the demand for in-situ infrared spectroscopic analysis has grown significantly, driven by the need for real-time measurements in diverse environments. Meeting this demand requires compact, high-performance spectroscopic devices. This presentation will focus on our tunable quantum cascade laser with a miniaturized external cavity, a breakthrough technology enabling precise in-situ measurements where conventional solutions fall short. Alongside the device overview, we will highlight its potential to transform on-site analysis and open new possibilities for infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, we will briefly touch on near-infrared tunable laser applications during the session.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki





Daiki Suzuki  is a Project Leader in the Development Department of the Solid State Division at Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. He leads product development projects for External Cavity Quantum Cascade Lasers (EC-QCL), with a primary focus on developing applications for spectroscopic analysis. He earned a Master’s degree in Engineering from Shizuoka University in 2013.

Semiconductor inspection

LDLS®: High-brightness broadband illumination for advanced metrology

January 21, 2026 @ 2:00 PM - 2:20 PM PST 

 

AI growth and the need for smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient semiconductors are driving the industry toward Angstrom-level measurements and complex architectures such as gate-all-around (GAA) transistors, 3D NAND memory, and heterogeneous integration. These trends make high-volume manufacturing (HVM) metrology more demanding than ever. Optical metrology remains the most effective solution for delivering the precision and throughput required for HVM—and one light source makes this possible: the Laser-Driven Light Source (LDLS®).

 

In this booth talk, we will show how LDLS®—with its high brightness, exceptional stability, and broadband spectrum—meets the rigorous demands of semiconductor metrology and how these strengths extend to photonics applications such as silicon photonics and sensor testing. We will review LDLS® operating principles, highlight recent advancements, and present applications addressing today’s challenges.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki

 

 

Renaud Richard is a Senior Technical Product Manager at Energetiq Technology, where he applies his deep technical expertise and customer-driven approach to advance product strategy and development in the photonics and light-source space. He earned his Master’s degree in Applied Physics from the California Institute of Technology.


HyperGauge: An innovative measurement method for measuring the entire wafer

January 21, 2026 @ 2:30 PM - 2:50 PM PST 

 

The HyperGauge Thickness measurement system employs a spectroscopic interference method for precise film thickness measurement. Equipped with Hamamatsu’s patented wavelength detection technology, λ-Capture®*, and a high-sensitivity camera, it can measure the full wafter thickness up to 300 mm in diameter in as little as 5 seconds. Compared to point sensor systems, it delivers dramatically faster acquisition of thickness distribution.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki

 

 

Masakazu Kawazu is a Manager of Hardware Design Engineers in the Technology Department at Hamamatsu Corporation in San Jose, California. He specializes in light sources, CMOS and CCD sensors, spectrometers, and module solutions for the semiconductor market. Hamamatsu Photonics has developed a new method for thin-film measurement, and he currently leads efforts to promote this innovative product within the semiconductor industry. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Image Processing from Mie University in 2008.

Infrared and wearable technology

Metabo-RAY: A novel Non-invasive solution for blood glucose and pressure estimation in wearables

January 21, 2026 @ 3:00 PM - 3:20 PM PST 

 

Hamamatsu Photonics introduces a breakthrough in non-invasive health monitoring: a novel method for estimating blood glucose and blood pressure using phase shifts between oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin signals. This technique repurposes standard photoplethysmography (PPG) data—already used in SpO₂ monitoring—eliminating the need for extra hardware or invasive sampling.

 

Powered by a patented algorithm, the solution enables seamless integration into wearables like smartwatches and rings, offering advanced wellness tracking with minimal design impact. This talk will cover the underlying science, algorithmic innovation, and integration strategies that could redefine personal health monitoring.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki

 

 

Keita Makita is a Product Manager at Hamamatsu Corporation in Bridgewater, New Jersey, specializing in photomultiplier tube (PMT) technologies used in radiation detection, mass spectrometry, and oil well logging. Hamamatsu Photonics has discovered a new physiological mechanism and established a novel algorithm that enables non-invasive blood glucose estimation using optical technology. He is currently leading marketing efforts to promote this groundbreaking innovation. He earned his bachelor's degree in Information Science from Hiroshima City University in 2007.


Introduction to industrial applications of InGaAs sensors and Hamamatsu’s strengths

January 21, 2026 @ 3:30 PM - 3:50 PM PST 

 

InGaAs image sensors are sensitive to the SWIR region and are used to analyze invisible anomalies and material compositions instantly. Demand for industrial applications in the SWIR region has grown rapidly in recent years, and our InGaAs image sensors have been integrated into process systems and operated inline across many industries, including food, agriculture, environment, pharmaceuticals, and minerals. In this presentation, we will use an application example in plastic sorting to explain what can be achieved with InGaAs image sensors and why you should choose our InGaAs solution.

Presenter:

Tomohiko Suzuki






Ryosuke Koike is a Project Leader in the Solid State Division, 51st Department, at Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. He currently leads the development of InGaAs linear image sensors and earned his bachelor’s degree in engineering from Nagoya Institute of Technology in 2009.

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