Optica Women Scholars

About this program

Optica’s Women Scholars program selects 20 scholars annually to support women pursuing careers in optics and photonics, awarding each a US$10,000 merit- and need-based grant, a one‑year Optica student membership, and access to a mentorship platform with a matched mentor. Selection is conducted by an international committee and emphasizes academic or research excellence together with demonstrated financial need. Eligible applicants are women engaged in optics and photonics study or early-career research seeking leadership development and networking through Optica’s global mentor and industry connections.