Breakthroughs in materials research are needed to address the ever-growing market for higher-density data storage within faster and more efficient photonic devices. This includes new ways to create and implement innovative energy-efficient multifunctional materials for different sectors, such as Information & Communication Technology by leveraging the convergence of several complementary and synergetic corner-stones: magnetism and optics/photonics as well as electronics. For instance, single molecule magnets (SMMs) are anticipated to revolutionize spintronic applications as their magnetic properties are intrinsic to the molecule, allowing hundreds of times more storage than the best existing hard drives, while using significantly less energy. Discovery and application of optical materials that use light to trigger, harness and enhance physical properties led to the development of the optoelectronic devices that our modern and technology-driven society heavily relies on. Yet, the need for more efficient, energy-saving approaches remains a challenge. Consequently, cutting-edge research is conducted around the world focussing on novel magnetic and optical probes, including (but not limited to) lanthanide-based SMMs, lanthanide-doped inorganic nanostructures, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and their hybrids. Particularly the concept of multimodality is receiving growing attention given that the interplay of multiple functionalities – e.g., magnetism and optics – is the way to produce a total effect that is greater than the sum of the individual entities. An emerging example in that regard is the combination of SMMs with optical temperature sensing capabilities.

The goal of this symposium is to present and discuss the most recent advancement, trends, and challenges regarding modern optics and magnetism. It is the particular aim to bring together experts from the various communities (optics, magnetism, nano, molecular) to learn from each other, exchange ideas, and jointly contribute to this emerging field. This symposium will not only offer a common ground for established experts in the fields, but also be an accommodating and inclusive platform for young and upcoming researchers: we strive to bring together an inclusive mix of established and young researchers, women and underrepresented minorities to showcase their work in a unique and inspiring environment to jointly create tomorrow’s opto-magnetic probes and devices.

Lanthanide luminescence Magnetic magnetic properties magnetooptic nanoscale optical spintronic