It is our great pleasure to welcome you to PhoSM 2026. This conference is more than just a scientific meeting, we envision it as a gathering of curious minds and creative thinkers, where the best of science and engineering come together to inspire new ideas and collaborations.We hope you will feel part of a community that is pushing the boundaries of photoalignment, soft matter, and advanced materials.
PhoSM 2026 will take place in Eindhoven, the heart of Dutch innovation and the birthplace of many transformative technologies.As the home of Philips and the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), a hub for research in engineering, materials science, and design.The city offers a dynamic environment where industry and academia meet. This vibrant ecosystem makes Eindhoven the perfect setting for a conference focused on breakthrough ideas and future-oriented science.
We’re also excited to welcome you to the Netherlands, a country with a rich and colorful cultural heritage.
Dutch art has long been shaped by a deep understanding of light, most famously in the dramatic illumination of Rembrandt’s paintings, a legacy that resonates beautifully with our focus on light-responsive materials and optically driven technologies.
As part of the conference experience, participants will also visit Castle Henkenshage, a historic estate that offers a unique atmosphere for gathering, reflection, and connection.
Its blend of heritage and character aligns perfectly with the spirit of PhoSM 2026: where tradition meets innovation and ideas are illuminated in new ways.
We truly look forward to meeting you, sharing ideas, and building new connections at PhoSM 2026.
The organizing committee
 Bart van Overbeeke Photography |  Source: Henkenshage |
