BIC Presents: Visioning the Future of Advanced Optics

In this episode of BIC Presents, we dive into the world of meta optics - an emerging technology that uses nanoscopic, ultra-thin lenses to manipulate light in ways traditional optics never could.

Our guests are Vince Einck, Chief Technology Officer of Myrias Optics, and Justin McKennon, Principal Scientist II at Electro Magnetic Applications (EMA) — two Massachusetts-based companies collaborating to produce and test metalenses.

Together, they break down:

• What metalenses are and how they work.
• How nanoimprint lithography allows for mass production of lenses thinner than a human hair.
• Why testing in simulated space environments is critical to ensuring meta optics are ready for real-world use.
• The role of Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech) in funding this high-tech collaboration.
• Exciting applications, from augmented reality and AI data centers to aerospace, defense, and photonics.

As Vince and Justin explain, meta optics are more than just a new type of lens — they represent a platform technology with the potential to redefine what’s possible in optics, enabling lighter, smaller, and smarter devices.

This conversation also highlights how Massachusetts is building an ecosystem for advanced manufacturing and innovation, connecting research labs, manufacturers, and testing facilities — all within close proximity, accelerating breakthrough ideas into real-world solutions.

Join us as we explore how next-generation optics are being built and tested right here in the Berkshires — and what this could mean for industries worldwide.

📌 Learn More:

🔗 Visit MyriasOptics.com

🔗 Visit EMA3d.com

🔗 Learn about MassTech.org

Produced by PJ Moynihan & Nate Christy, BIC Studios