From August 27 to 29, 2025, the European Master for Industry in Microwave Electronics and Photonics (EMIMEP) hosted its annual Summer School in Bilbao (Basque Country, Spain). Held at the prestigious Bizkaia Aretoa, the event brought together students, professors, and industry stakeholders to explore cutting-edge research, foster academic collaboration, and celebrate the achievements of the next generation of engineers and scientists. The Summer School served as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, professional development, and innovation in the fields of microwave electronics and photonics.

Thesis Defenses and Presentations

The Summer School featured a robust lineup of thesis defenses and research presentations, showcasing the depth and diversity of student projects. Topics ranged from theoretical advancements to practical applications, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the EMIMEP program:

• Optical and Antenna Technologies
• Nonlinear Photonics and Nanophotonics
• AI and Electromagnetic Optimization
• Energy Efficiency and Semiconductors

Scientific Talks

The event also featured insightful talks from leading experts:

• Inari Badillo (University of the Basque Country) discussed Accelerator Research, offering a glimpse into high-energy physics applications.
• Rafael Suarez (Ikerlan) presented on 3D Simulations for Electromagnetic Compatibility, emphasizing the importance of simulation tools in modern engineering.
• Carolina Pedrosa (NXP Semiconductors/Télécom Paris) explored Predistortion Techniques for Power Amplifiers, a key topic for improving signal integrity in communication systems.
• Rafael Dos Santos do Nascimento (Infinite Orbits) shared his journey from EMIMEP to Project Management in a Space Startup, inspiring students with real-world career pathways.
• Una Arregui Leon (Politecnico Milano) presented modeling strategies for THz nonlinear nanophotonics enabled by all-dielectric metastructures

Professional Development and Networking

Workshop: Coaching for Researchers

A highlight of the Summer School was the workshop « Coaching for Researchers, » led by Anca Constantinescu-Dobra (Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Romania). This session provided participants with valuable tools for career planning, effective communication, and leadership — skills essential for success in both academia and industry.

Graduation Ceremony

The Summer School culminated in a formal Graduation Ceremony, where students were recognized for their hard work and dedication. The ceremony began with a welcome address by Vice-Rector Gotzone Barandika Argoitia, followed by introductory remarks from Profs. Denis Barataud, Juan-Mari Collantes,. The diploma presentation was a proud moment for graduates, marking the transition from academic training to professional careers. The event concluded with a celebratory lunch at Txoko Piperrak, fostering camaraderie and networking among participants.

Impact and Outcomes

The EMIMEP Summer School 2025 reinforced the program’s commitment to excellence in education and research. By bringing together students, faculty, and industry professionals, the event facilitated meaningful collaborations and networking connections. Participants left with not only advanced technical knowledge but also a stronger professional network, positioning them for success in academia, research, and industry.
The Summer School also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing global challenges, from energy-efficient electronics to advanced photonics and AI-driven design.