- Leading innovation in tunable optics
Making optical innovation happen since 2008
We are a global leader in light control technologies – pioneering tunable optics that enable faster, more precise, and reliable solutions across industries.
Fast facts
2+ million units shipped worldwide
180+ employees, 48% hold a Master’s degree, 20% a PhD
State-of-the-art cleanroom and production facilities
Offices in 3 countries, with distribution partners across 20+ countries
200+ patents filed, protecting breakthroughs in adaptive optics
29% of our team are women, and that share keeps growing
- Our story
What if lenses could adapt in the same way as the human eye?
This simple question sparked the minds behind Optotune – and soon grew into a mission to make a positive impact through optical innovation.
Driven by curiosity and persistence, the founders transformed a research concept into a growing portfolio of optical solutions, powering breakthroughs in imaging, medical devices, laser processing, AR/VR, and beyond.
What began in 2008 as a small lab project has grown into a global company, united by one belief: light can be shaped in entirely new ways.
2008
A startup with a vision
Three ETH Zurich graduates transformed a bold research idea into Optotune, an ETH spin-off dedicated to focusing and steering light.
2011
Top 100 Swiss Startup Award
Optotune was named the number one startup in Switzerland, a recognition that not only boosted the confidence of the team but also increased visibility for the company.
2012–2014
Award-winning innovation
Industrial and economic leaders soon took notice. Optotune earned the Prism Award for Photonics Innovation and the Swiss Economic Award – recognition that cemented its role as both a technology pioneer and one of Switzerland’s most promising young companies.
2017
Expansion to Slovakia
With demand increasing, Optotune opened its first manufacturing site outside of Switzerland. This step transformed the company into a world-class supplier of unique optical components.
2018
100 people strong
In just a decade, Optotune grew to 100+ employees – building a thriving community of engineers, sales and operations specialists, all dedicated to advancing tunable optics.
2019
Expansion to Taiwan
To serve a fast-growing customer base in Asia, Optotune established its first international sales office in Taiwan.
2021
One million products shipped
A major milestone was acheived: the one-millionth Optotune component shipped. What started as a research idea had now become trusted, high-volume technology powering industries worldwide.
Next
Shaping the future
Every milestone so far has been just one step toward a bigger goal of making optical innovation happen in all areas of life, all across the globe.
What drives us
We dare to try new things and never give up. Curiosity and courage push us to explore what's possible.
We build trust and avoid blame. Everyone's perspective matters, and we treat customers and colleagues with fairness.
We're committed to excellence and focused on delivering value to our customers. Every challenge is a chance to learn and improve.
We take responsibility and act proactively. Each of us contributes to progress with initiative and accountability.
We appreciate each other and celebrate wins as a team. Optimism fuels our collaboration and resilience.
Meet our management team
Dr. Manuel Aschwanden
CEO | Co-founder
David Niederer
CTO | Co-founder
Mark Ventura
VP Business development & Product management | Co-founder
Christian Herr
VP Finance & Legal
Adrian Wethli
VP HR
Marco Pigozzi
VP Sales & Marketing
Ivan Chovanec
VP Information technology
Responsibility
& ESG
Since our launch, we’ve advanced optical innovation while operating with responsibility toward the environment, our people, and our communities.
Minimizing environmental footprint, optimizing resources
Ethical, compliant, and transparent sourcing
Talent development and inclusive workplaces
Strong controls for product compliance, human rights, and data security
Recognition & press
