Navigating Photonics Innovation: The Intersection of Science and Entrepreneurship

Been There, Done That

In this episode, host Dr. Jonathan Felbinger, deputy director of QED-C, sits down with Scott Davis, president and CEO of Vescent Photonics - the leading designer and manufacturer of lasers, electro-optic tools, and control electronics used in precision optical measurements based on the quantum nature of physical systems. The discussion delves into the company's origins, pivotal milestones navigating the transition from startup to a sustainable business, Scott Davis's personal evolution from scientist to entrepreneur, insights into identifying emerging market needs, building a dedicated team in the realm of photonics, cultivating a culture of innovation, and navigating through significant challenges along the entrepreneurial journey.

Show notes

Dr. Scott Davis is a physics-trained entrepreneur. He co-founded Vescent Photonics to develop photonic-based non-mechanical laser beamsteerers. This technology was sold off to Analog Devices for the automotive market. He has extensive business and technical experience including growing a technology manufacturing line, IP development, liquid crystal (LC) device physics, molecular and laser spectroscopy, precision metrology, and laser stabilization. While working at NIST in Gaithersburg, MD and JILA in Colorado he acquired skills in laser stabilization, optical frequency metrology, and molecular spectroscopy. He has over 50 papers, two book chapters, and more than 25 patents pending or issued. Prior to starting Vescent Photonics, Dr. Davis worked in industry as an optical engineer, served as an NRC postdoc in the laboratories of David Plusquellic at NIST, and obtained his Ph.D. from JILA under the tutelage of Prof. David Nesbitt.

Been There, Done That is produced by Association Briefings.