COMETA: A strategic partnership to reinvent optics with metasurfaces
On Wednesday May 14, 2025, an important milestone was reached in the world of research and technological innovation: Université Jean Monnet (UJM), CNRS and the HEF group officially launched COMETA, a joint laboratory dedicated to Optical Components based on METAsurfaces. This ambitious project, actively supported by HEF, marks a new stage in the rapprochement between the academic and industrial worlds, with the aim of developing breakthrough technologies in the field of optics.
Metasurfaces for new optics
At the heart of COMETA are metasurfaces, nanometric structures capable of manipulating light in unprecedented ways. These revolutionary surfaces enable the miniaturization and simplification of optical components while enhancing their performance. They pave the way for major innovations across various sectors:
- Autonomous vehicles: more compact and efficient sensors
- Medical devices: improved diagnostics and imaging
- Industrial equipment: intelligent, robust optical systems
A promising collaboration between science and industry
The COMETA laboratory embodies a virtuous model of cooperation between academia, public research, and industry.
By bringing together the complementary expertise of UJM, CNRS, and HEF, it aims to accelerate the transfer of scientific knowledge into real-world applications.
Collaborative projects and research theses are already underway to tackle tomorrow’s scientific and technological challenges. The goal is clear: to design next-generation optical components, ready to be integrated into the products and systems of the future.
A lever for local and global innovation
COMETA is more than just a laboratory – it’s a high-potential innovation accelerator.
It reflects the Saint-Étienne region’s ability to position itself at the forefront of technology, built on strong partnerships and a shared vision for the future.
With COMETA, HEF and Jean Monnet University are laying the foundations for the optics of tomorrow – serving society and driving major technological transitions.