The leading researcher at the University of Latvia (UL), Tatjana Pladere, has received the “Optica Ambassador” recognition awarded by the international professional society Optica to outstanding young leaders in the field of optics and photonics. T. Pladere is the first representative from the Baltic states to receive this distinction during the 11 years of the program’s existence.
Foto: BalticPictures.lv
T. Pladere is the Head of the Department of Optometry and Vision Science at the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Latvia and a leading researcher whose scientific interests include mechanisms of visual perception, display technologies, and research methods for studying them. In 2021, she obtained her doctoral degree in Physics and Astronomy, defending her dissertation titled “Evaluation of Visual Efficiency on a Volumetric Multiplane Display.”
Alongside her academic work, she is actively involved in international professional organizations, promotes science, and supports young researchers.
In January of this year, T. Pladere received the University of Latvia Excellence Award “Young Scientist of the Year 2025,” recognizing her leadership, impact, and achievements in the field of vision science.
The “Optica Ambassador” title is awarded to young professionals who not only demonstrate excellence in their professional achievements but also actively contribute to the development of the professional community — providing mentorship, organizing educational activities, strengthening international collaboration, and inspiring the next generation. The 2026 “Optica Ambassador” cohort includes young professionals from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, India, and Latvia.
