
Progress in Ultrafast Laser Modifications of Materials
Villars-sur-Ollon, June 29 - July 2, 2025
About
The workshop series on ultrafast laser modifications of materials is organized by a group of scientists as an informal gathering for presenting recent progress and exchanging ideas in the vibrant field of ultrafast laser-matter interaction and with the sole purpose of advancing scientific knowledge.
The format of the workshop is a focused single session, featuring a series of high-profile invited talks as well as opportunities for students and young scientists to present their works in a dedicated poster and short presentation session. It is meant to provide an inspiring environment and set up to promote exchanges and foster collaborations.

History and Scientific Committee
The first edition of the workshop took place in Cargèse in Corsica (2013). It was then followed by editions in Neuchâtel, Switzerland (2016), Telluride, Colorado (2018), and Nikko, Japan (2023).
Prof. Jeff Squier, Colorado School of Mines, USA,
Prof. Ya Cheng, Shangai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Science, China,
Prof. Lionel Canioni, Univ. of Bordeaux, France,
Prof. Michael Withford, Macquarie University, Australia,
Prof. Shigeki Matsuo, Shibaura University of Technology, Japan,
and Prof. Yves Bellouard, EPFL, Switzerland (Chair & Organizer).
Scientific committtee:
Prof. Ya Cheng, Shangai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Science, China,
Prof. Lionel Canioni, Univ. of Bordeaux, France,
Prof. Michael Withford, Macquarie University, Australia,
Prof. Shigeki Matsuo, Shibaura University of Technology, Japan,
and Prof. Yves Bellouard, EPFL, Switzerland (Chair & Organizer).

Topics of interest
- Fundamental mechanism of ultrafast Laser-matter interactions
- Laser-induced phase transformation
- Dynamic observations of ultrafast laser-matter interaction
- Advanced beam shaping and propagation of pulses in transparent materials
- Applications of laser-induced transformations including topological photonics, nano-lithography, 3D optical memories, and high-precision structuring.

Venue
This year workshop will take place in the beautiful Swiss Alpine resort of Villars-sur-Ollon. An idyllic location located on a natural balcony with southern exposure in the heart of the Vaud Alps, At an altitude of 1,300 metres, Villars provides a relaxed setting featuring a spectacular view extending from Lake Geneva to Mont-Blanc.
Conference site and accommodation
This year workshop will take place at the Hotel Viu, that features comfortable rooms, modern conference facilities and excellent dining will insure that conference participants will have a enjoyable and convenient stay.
How to get there
The venue can easily be reached using public transportation. Geneva International Airport (GVA Cointrin) is the closest airport. The total travel time from Geneva airport to Villars by direct train is 2.5 hours, including one short transfer stop.
