Building the Future of Photonics: An Interview with Dr. Bárbara Buades of MEETOPTICS

t Andover Corporation, we’re always inspired by innovators who are reshaping the future of photonics. We recently had the chance to sit down with Dr. Bárbara Buades, CEO and co-founder of MEETOPTICS, to discuss her journey in science and entrepreneurship and the challenges of bringing a disruptive photonics platform to life.

From translating physics into investor-friendly language, to pioneering AI-driven design tools for optics engineers, Bárbara shared insights that are equal parts honest and inspiring.

Biggest Hurdles in Building MEETOPTICS

Q: Was there a moment where things felt nearly impossible?
Bárbara:

The biggest challenge was learning to speak the same language as investors. Most don't fully understand the technology or the potential of the photonics industry. Coming from a physics background, it was tough at first to bridge that communication gap. But now, we understand each other—and that's been a huge win.

Another challenge was explaining just how unique our technology is. We created something new, with a very specific value proposition that hadn't existed in the market before. Getting people—investors, suppliers, engineers—to trust and believe in it took time. We had to prove it, and thankfully, some early believers like Edmund Optics and asphericon helped us get where we are today.

AI’s Role in the Future of Photonics

Q: AI is core to your platform. What impact do you see it having on the industry?
Bárbara:

AI’s potential in photonics is massive—and we’re only scratching the surface.

Right now, we’re using AI to help engineers determine the specifications that best fit their prototype needs. That might sound simple, but it’s a big leap. Often, users don’t know exactly what they need, especially if they don’t have deep optics knowledge. Our AI system—named Louis, after physicist Louis de Broglie—guides them to the right components.

We launched the Beta version in March and we are launching the full version at the Laser Show on the 22^nd of June 2025 and it will continue evolving. Down the line, AI could help with interpreting STEP files, identifying compatible manufacturers, and even simulating optical setups. We’ve already built a fast ray-tracing simulator—nothing like Zemax or Code V, but perfect for quick prototyping with a low learning curve.

And of course, language models are changing everything. With LLMs, users can interact with our platform like they're speaking to a human. For example, they could ask, “What coating should I use for a high-intensity laser on this substrate?”—and get a relevant, technical answer.

It’s all about making optical engineering more accessible and intuitive.

Reflections on Leadership in Photonics

Q: What’s your perspective on leading a company in such a technical, fast-moving industry?
Bárbara:

You get used to operating in unfamiliar territory—it becomes part of your environment. You constantly need to learn, adapt, and make decisions that could shape the future of your company.

One of the toughest parts is proving your technical credibility, especially when your work challenges the status quo. I’m fortunate to have a strong academic background in physics, but at the end of the day, what really matters is building something that works—and delivers value.

Advice to Future Innovators in STEM

Q: What would you say to someone who’s just starting their journey in photonics or STEM more broadly?
Bárbara:

STEM is a force for innovation, economic growth, and societal change.

Even if your dream doesn’t follow a traditional path, pursue it. You don’t need a perfect role model to give you permission—sometimes, the path you’re walking hasn’t been carved out yet. Be curious. Be persistent. If only one person has done it before you, there’s no reason why you can’t be next.

A Fun One to Close

Q: If you could instantly master any skill, completely unrelated to your career, what would it be?
Bárbara:

I am terrible with orientation. I can walk into a restaurant and forget which way the exit is. Google Maps has saved my life more times than I can count. Before it existed, I even took photos to remember where I parked!

At work, design… that’s my real weakness. My presentations always go through someone on my team because I just don’t have the eye for it. So, if I could master any skill, it would be design—for sure.

Why It Matters

As we launch this Series, Bárbara’s story sets the tone for what we aim to celebrate: forward-thinking minds, new approaches to long-standing challenges, and the people behind the breakthroughs driving the photonics industry forward. Her perspective reminds us that persistence, clarity of vision, and a willingness to tackle the unknown are powerful ingredients for innovation.

We’re grateful to Bárbara for sharing her time and insights with us and look forward to what MEETOPTICS builds next. Stay tuned for more conversations with leaders across optics and photonics, as we continue to explore the evolving landscape of light science and engineering.