Laser technology has evolved from a luxury into an essential tool

By Staff Report March 3, 2025 11:47 am IST

Laser Science Services is bringing us the emerging trends in laser technology while empowering women in the STEM field. As India becomes a global manufacturing hub, laser technology is transitioning from luxury to necessity. Sonal Agrawal, CEO of Laser Science Services, tells us about her company portfolio and its initiatives to bring women closer to laser technology.

How does Laser Science Services’ laser technology portfolio help drive advancements in scientific research, particularly in fields like material science, medical research, and environmental studies?

Since its inception in 1988, Laser Science Services has been guided by a clear vision: “Bringing Tomorrow’s Technology Today.” This philosophy and our mission—“Sales Through Efficient Service”—ensure that researchers and scientists receive world-class laser technology with the expertise and support needed to achieve optimal results.

Our commitment to customer-centric innovation has made us one of the leading laser technology providers in India. We consistently deliver cutting-edge solutions across various scientific disciplines. We represent over 25 leading global laser and photonics manufacturers focused on creating the most advanced technology.

In material science, we supply advanced laser systems for Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD), Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD), and Magnetic Studies, empowering researchers in developing next-generation materials. Our laser solutions play a crucial role in biomedical imaging, diagnostic advancements, and the development of innovative imaging techniques that accelerate medical discoveries. We provide specialised laser-based systems for atmospheric monitoring, oceanographic research, gas sensing, and pollution control, supporting critical studies on climate change and environmental sustainability.

By continually integrating the latest advancements in laser technology, photonics, and precision optics, we enable scientific institutions, universities, and industries to push the boundaries of research and innovation.

As a customised solution provider, can you share some of the recent laser technology solutions that Laser Science Services has delivered to meet the specific needs of scientific research across various disciplines?

At Laser Science Services, we take pride in introducing cutting-edge laser technologies to Indian research and industry for the first time. Some of our most recent milestones include the Petawatt (PW) Laser from Thales, France, for atomic and high-energy physics research. A CEP (Carrier-Envelope Phase) Amplifier from Coherent GMBH has been used for advanced scientific experiments. Laser Science’s indigenously made, design-patented DED (Directed Energy Deposition) Cladding System is used at IIT Hyderabad for next-generation additive manufacturing and advanced material processing, which has one of the largest build-volumes in the world. Our Quantum Technology Solutions is deployed for quantum cryptography, quantum communication, and advanced research in photonics-based quantum systems.

We are a trusted partner in accelerating research and development across multiple scientific and industrial domains by providing customised and application-specific solutions.

How does Laser Science Services integrate lasers with emerging technologies?

As part of our Make in India and integration initiatives, we develop laser systems in-house. We integrate AI-driven automation to enhance laser precision and optimise manufacturing workflows. ML algorithms improve system diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and real-time calibration for research applications. Smart laser control systems are deployed to provide greater accuracy, speed, and energy efficiency for industrial and scientific use.

Beyond product innovation, we actively collaborate with research institutions to develop new laser-based technologies. We also support young researchers through Best Paper Awards at prestigious conferences such as the National Laser Symposium, Ultrafast Laser Sciences, and ICOLD, fostering next-generation talent in photonics and laser applications.

What emerging trends in laser technology are Laser Science Services observing, and how is the company positioning itself to deliver future-proof solutions to meet the needs of the scientific research community?

Indian laser and photonics industry is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by global investment, technological advancements, and increasing adoption across various sectors.

India is becoming a global manufacturing hub. With major players like Foxconn, Micron, and Tesla investing in India’s high-tech manufacturing, laser technology is becoming a critical enabler of precision engineering and automation. Once considered a high-cost luxury, laser technology is an essential tool across industries for higher precision, faster processing, and superior quality. New developments in automation and AI are making lasers more accessible, enabling broader adoption across medical, industrial, and research sectors.

At Laser Science Services, we are strategically positioned to capitalise on this growth by continuously innovating, investing in R&D, and fostering strong collaborations with global technology leaders and Indian research groups. We focus on delivering future-proof laser solutions that empower researchers, scientists, and industries to stay ahead in an evolving technological landscape.

As a woman leader in the laser industry, how have you seen women’s roles evolve in scientific research and innovation, particularly in highly technical fields?

As a woman leading a company in the laser and photonics industry, I have seen progress in how women are stepping into technical, research, and leadership roles. However, fields like laser science and photonics remain largely male-dominated, and there is still work to ensure equal representation.

At Laser Science Services, we are actively working to bridge this gap. A key part of this effort was our participation in the Women in Optics and Photonics India (WOPI) Conference at IIT Bombay, where we engaged with researchers, students, and industry experts to discuss challenges and opportunities for women in photonics. Platforms like WOPI are essential in fostering dialogue and providing visibility to women in high-tech fields.

Through mentorship, educational outreach, and industry collaborations, we are committed to supporting more women in STEM and laser technology, ensuring they have the resources and encouragement to excel.

What challenges do women face when pursuing scientific research and advanced laser technology, and how can these be addressed?

From limited leadership opportunities to biases in technical roles, women face several challenges, and many women hesitate to enter the laser and scientific industry due to a lack of visible role models and networking opportunities.

At Laser Science Services, we are addressing these barriers in tangible ways. We are actively engaged with young researchers and professionals, discussing ways to increase female representation in photonics and laser technology. Additionally, we support equal hiring opportunities in technical and leadership roles. We participate in skill development programs and workshops for women in photonics. We provide networking and mentorship programs to guide young women in STEM.

We can empower more women to pursue and thrive in laser technology careers by fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.

How can companies like Laser Science Services and industry stakeholders create more opportunities for women in scientific research and technology?

Laser Science Services believes that true innovation comes from diverse perspectives. That’s why we are committed to fostering a workplace where women in STEM are included and empowered.

We actively hire and promote women in technical roles, ensuring that women have equal opportunities in research, engineering, and leadership. We also connect young female employees with experienced professionals in the industry to guide their career paths.

We work with academic institutions and research organisations to provide women with platforms to showcase their expertise in laser technology. We also participate in STEM outreach programs, panel discussions, and conferences, where we highlight women’s contributions to laser science.

I encourage more women to pursue careers in laser technology. I am proud that Laser Science Services is actively creating an inclusive future for the industry. I aim to see more women take leadership roles in scientific research, knowing they have the support and opportunities they deserve.