The D-Light start-up project, led by Arnaud Rogemont and developed alongside Brice Maikhaf, is among the winners of the 2026 i-PhD national innovation competition. This award supports the development of an innovative solution designed for the characterization of photonic chips.
The results of the 2026 State innovation competitions were recently announced. Among the 40 winning projects in the i-PhD competition is D-Light, led by Arnaud Rogemont, who conducted his doctoral research at the ICB laboratory. The project falls within the field of integrated photonics—a rapidly growing sector that aims to integrate light-based functions onto chips, much like electronics combines various components onto an integrated circuit.
A solution for characterizing photonic chips
With D-Light, the goal is to offer an innovative solution for characterizing photonic chips. This step is essential for measuring performance, gaining a better understanding of behavior, and supporting the development of new photonic technologies. This achievement marks a new milestone for the project as it moves toward commercialization and the creation of a start-up.
The project benefited from support provided by SATT SAYENS, DECA-BFC, and PUI BFC, as well as the scientific environment at the ICB, where Arnaud Rogemont conducted his doctoral research. The i-PhD competition—organized as part of the State’s innovation competitions and backed by France 2030—supports young researchers looking to leverage their research findings through an entrepreneurial venture.
Congratulations to Arnaud Rogemont on this impressive recognition and on continuing this entrepreneurial journey born from research!
