Shaping the Future of Optical Networks

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Welcome to the detailed program of the FutuRe Optical NeTworking (FRONT) Workshop. This one-day event brings together leading experts in optical networking to discuss cutting-edge technologies and architectural advancements shaping the future of fixed networks.

The program is structured around two main panels:

  • Optical Communication systems and networks for AI clusters and Data centers.
  • Optical Communication systems and networks for 6G x-haul and next generation FTTx.

Each panel features invited talks by leading international and European experts, together with interactive panel discussions. We encourage active participation and look forward to engaging dialogues throughout the day.

Program – September 1, 2026, Dublin, Ireland

08:30 – 09:00
Registration
09:00 – 09:30
Welcome
Dan Kilper, CONNECT
09:30 – 09:45
Opening Session
Prof. Ioannis Tomkos, University of Patras
09:45 – 11:00
Session 1 — Invited Talks
  • Marco Loncar (TBC), HarvardPlenary Keynote
  • George Zervas, Oriole Networks
  • Frank Smyth, Pilot Photonics
11:00 – 11:30
Coffee break
11:30 – 12:30
Session 2 — Invited Talks
  • Prince Anandarajah, DCU
  • Marco Ruffini, TCD
  • Xin Yin, IMEC
12:30 – 13:15
Panel discussion
13:15 – 14:15
Lunch break
14:15 – 15:30
Session 3 — Invited Talks
  • Mikael Mazur, Bell LabsPlenary Keynote
  • Andrew Ellis, Aston University
  • Fatima Gunning, Tyndall Institute
15:30 – 16:00
Coffee break
16:00 – 16:45
Session 4 — Invited Talks
  • Massimo Tornatore, Politecnico di Milano
  • Paolo Monti, Chalmers
  • Antonio Napoli, Nokia
16:45 – 17:30
Panel discussion
17:30 – 17:45
Closing Session
Prof. Ioannis Tomkos, University of Patras

Panel Topics

  • DC/AI clusters: Sessions focus on optical communications for AI clusters and data centers, featuring invited talks and discussions from both international and European experts.
  • X-Haul/FTTx: Sessions shift to optical communication for x-haul and next-generation FTTx, again with a mix of invited talks and interactive panels.

We look forward to your participation in this collaborative and forward-looking event.