Celebrating the Titans of Innovation: The Visionaries Behind #DeepTech

"In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." Albert Einstein

As the founder of a DeepTech company, I've been privileged to collaborate with some of the brightest luminaries in #science around the world. Today, I take immense pride in acknowledging our scientific advisors - Professor Mark Brongersma ( 美国斯坦福大学 ), Professor Andrea Alù ( The City University of New York ), Professor Nader Engheta ( 美国宾夕法尼亚大学 ), and Professor jeff dahn ( Dalhousie University ). Their trailblazing contributions have not only redefined our understanding of physics, nanotechnology and metamaterials but have also exemplified humility amidst extraordinary achievements.

I wanted to write this article and pay homage to their contributions at our company and offer a broader sense on how DeepTech startups impact the future.

Disruptive Nanotechnologies: The Path to Commercialization

The journey of #nanotechnology and #DeepTech from an embryonic idea to a commercially viable powerhouse mirrors the epic narratives of innovation hubs like Bell Labs and Fairchild Semiconductor. A testament to the power of persistent innovation. This path, typically spanning a 10-15 year timeline, sees these technologies evolve from conceptual frameworks to market-ready solutions, attracting a spectrum of investments. In the initial stages, seed funding might range from a few $100k dollars from angel and government funding, but as the technology proves its potential, it attracts multimillion-dollar Series A and B rounds - all the way to late stage investments and IPOs - especially in high capital intensive endeavors like DeepTech industries (e.g. heathcare, semiconductors, renewable energy etc), similar to the investment trajectories witnessed in the early days of Silicon Valley.

What is DeepTech?

Short for "deep technology", it is a category of advanced technologies that are based on substantial scientific or engineering challenges. These technologies are often disruptive and have the potential to create significant impacts on society and economies. DeepTech is characterized by several key features:

1. Scientific or Technological Innovation: DeepTech solutions are grounded in notable discoveries or engineering innovations. They often emerge from new scientific research or significant advancements in existing fields.
2. Long Development Periods: Unlike software or internet companies, which can iterate rapidly, DeepTech ventures often require long periods of development. This is due to the complexity of the underlying science and the need for extensive testing and validation.
3. High Capital Intensity: The development of DeepTech often requires significant investment in research and development, specialized equipment, and expert personnel.
4. Potential for Disruption: DeepTech has the power to fundamentally change industries and create new markets. It can offer solutions to some of the most pressing global challenges, such as climate change, healthcare, and energy.
5. Interdisciplinary Approach: DeepTech typically involves a convergence of different scientific and technological disciplines, integrating knowledge from areas like biotechnology, nanotechnology, quantum computing, advanced materials, robotics, and artificial intelligence.
6. High Barriers to Entry: The complexity of the technologies and the requirement for specialized knowledge create high barriers to entry, often limiting competition in the early stages of development.
7. Significant Impact: DeepTech ventures often target large-scale problems, offering solutions that can have a profound social, economic, or environmental impact.

DeepTech is considered to be at the forefront of innovation, driving forward significant technological shifts and offering solutions to complex challenges that affect the world at large.

Are TESLA and SpaceX DeepTech examples?

Tesla and SpaceX are two of the best examples of DeepTech companies due to their focus on addressing complex engineering and scientific challenges with innovative, technology-driven solutions. Here's how they align with the key characteristics of DeepTech:

1. Scientific or Technological Innovation:Tesla has pioneered advancements in electric vehicle technology, battery energy storage, and autonomous driving systems. Their work in improving lithium-ion battery technology and integrating it into scalable energy solutions is a significant technological innovation. SpaceX has revolutionized space technology with the development of reusable rockets, such as the Falcon series, and the ambitious Starlink project for global satellite internet connectivity. Their innovation lies in drastically reducing the cost of space travel and making it more accessible.
2. Long Development Periods:Both Tesla and SpaceX underwent lengthy periods of research, development, and testing before achieving their current successes. SpaceX, for instance, spent years developing and testing its reusable rocket technology.
3. High Capital Intensity:The development of electric vehicles, advanced battery technology, and space exploration vehicles requires substantial (measured in multiple $ billions) investment in R&D, manufacturing facilities, and specialized equipment.
4. Potential for Disruption:Tesla has disrupted the automotive industry with its electric vehicles and is influencing the global shift towards sustainable transportation.SpaceX has disrupted the aerospace industry with its cost-effective, reusable rocket technology, opening new possibilities for space exploration and satellite deployment.
5. Interdisciplinary Approach:Tesla’s innovations in electric vehicles involve a blend of electrical engineering, computer science (for autonomous driving systems), and materials science (for battery technology and other key light-weighting innovations).SpaceX combines aerospace engineering, materials science, computer science, and robotics to create its spacecraft and rockets.
6. High Barriers to Entry:The complexities of electric vehicle technology and space exploration create significant barriers to entry, limiting the number of competitors who can effectively challenge Tesla and SpaceX in their respective domains.
7. Significant Impact:Tesla’s impact is evident in its contribution to reducing carbon emissions through electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions.SpaceX’s impact includes making space travel more feasible and affordable, contributing to satellite technology, and even pursuing interplanetary travel.

Both Tesla and SpaceX exemplify DeepTech companies as they are not only focused on solving complex problems through technological innovation but also significantly impacting industries and potentially changing how humanity interacts with both #energy and #space.

DeepTech Timeline to Profitability

Tesla, founded in 2003, achieved its first profitable quarter in 2013 but reached consistent annual profitability by 2020, taking approximately 17 years from its inception. SpaceX, established in 2002, has had less public financial disclosure as a private company. However, it was reported to be profitable at various times, with indications of achieving breakeven within about a twelve years of its founding. The exact timeline for consistent annual profitability for SpaceX is less clear due to its private status.

"Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited, whereas imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution." Albert Einstein

If we look back in time, Bell Labs, was a historical beacon of innovation. They laid the groundwork for numerous technological advancements. Its environment, fostering deep scientific inquiry and practical engineering, led to breakthroughs like the transistor, laser, and solar cell. These inventions, though initially experimental, became cornerstones of modern technology, much like the nascent field of nanotechnology today. Similarly, Fairchild Semiconductor, often considered the birthplace of Silicon Valley, revolutionized the technology industry with its pioneering work on the integrated circuit leading as employees spun-out to successor companies such as Intel and National Semiconductor, and on to Apple, Netscape and Sun Microsystems, and then more recently to Cisco, Google, Facebook and beyond. This spirit of innovation echoes in the nanotechnology sector, as we witness its potential to revolutionize industries from healthcare with targeted drug delivery systems to renewable energy with nanomaterial-enhanced solutions.

The commercialization of nanotechnology is not just an investment journey; it's a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. The steps from theoretical research to lab experiments, and then to scalable production and market penetration, embody the same innovative spirit that drove the successes of Bell Labs and Fairchild Semiconductor. For instance, the development of high-efficiency, nanomaterial-based #batteries is reminiscent of the early days of semiconductor development, where each breakthrough was a step toward the technological leaps we take for granted today.

In this context, the evolution of nanotechnology is more than a scientific endeavor; it's a continuation of a legacy where visionary ideas, backed by strategic investments and interdisciplinary collaboration, pave the way for transformative societal impacts. As we chart this course, the lessons from Bell Labs and Fairchild Semiconductor serve as guiding lights, reminding us that today's exploratory science is the foundation of tomorrow's indispensable technology... so my take on DeepTech is where imagination intersects with breakthrough innovation.

The Human Catalyst in Technological Triumphs

The heart of technological breakthroughs lies in the people who envision and actualize the future. It’s about the creative geniuses, the relentless innovators, and the visionary thinkers who invent the future. My advisors personify this essence. Their intellectual depth, combined with a grounded approach, sparks innovation and motivates everyone in their orbit.

Nader Enghetta: The Guiding Luminary of Metamaterials Science

At the University of Pennsylvania, Prof. Enghetta has been instrumental in advancing nano-optics and metamaterials. His research has opened new avenues in manipulating light and electromagnetic waves, paving the way for innovations in imaging systems and telecommunications. His recent work on Four-dimensional (4D) metamaterials are wave-based, material-based platforms in which some of the material parameters can vary with time in addition to (or instead of) varying in space. Professor Enghetta's humility shines through in his engaging presentations, where he not only makes groundbreaking scientific concepts accessible and thrilling for his audience, but does so with a down-to-earth and approachable demeanor. This humble approach in communicating complex ideas reflects his deep understanding and respect for his field, making his insights all the more impactful and relatable. As a young researcher, I was fortunate to be at one of his incredible lectures and also attend the 2007 European School of Metamaterials in Rome. 2007 is the year when Prof. Eghetta presents to the world what could surpass electronic circuits to go beyond Moore's law. The idea coined metactronics, are lumped nanocircuits with #light which can address a new paradigm for #optical circuitry. Metatronics can function as a nanoscale circuit at optical frequencies. The concept provides a new form of circuits, operating with light instead of electrons at the nanoscale, analogous to currents and voltages in a conventional circuit: a 'metamaterial-inspired nanoelectronics' – aka 'metactronics'." If one were to meticulously trace the history of public lectures, discussions, and research in the field of metamaterials, it's likely that the community within this domain would affectionately regard themselves as the intellectual progeny of Professor Enghetta. His extensive contributions and guidance have significantly shaped the landscape of this scientific field. His 2007 lecture and Prof. Enghetta's Science paper (in the September 21, 2007 edition of Science "Circuits with Light at Nanoscales: Optical Nanocircuits Inspired by Metamaterials") became a profound inspiration for my move from Radio Frequency electromagnetic applications into photonics and my entrepreneurial journey in DeepTech.

Mark Brongersma: The Nanophotonics & Plasmonics Pioneer

Prof. Brongersma’s work at Stanford University has been pivotal in nanophotonics and metamaterials. His research in manipulating light at the nanoscale using silver and other new materials, has led to significant advancements in solar energy harvesting and optical computing, and during his time at Caltech coined the term "Plasmonics" for a new device technology that exploits the unique optical properties of nanoscale metallic structures to route and manipulate light at the nanoscale. At Stanford he continues to push the boundaries and understanding of light-matter interaction and how we can utilize light in practical applications such as augmented reality and solar energy (one great example can be found in Nature Materials: "Light management for photovoltaics using high-index nanostructures") Professor Brongersma, embodying the innovative spirit characteristic of a Stanford professor and an entrepreneurial mindset, made groundbreaking discoveries in 2D and 3D metamaterials, overcoming significant theoretical challenges. His pioneering research led him to become a co-founder of Rolith Inc. in Silicon Valley (with Dr Boris Kobrin - founder and CEO of Rolith), a testament to his entrepreneurial acumen. The company introduced a new revolutionary lithographic method, facilitating the production of pristine 2D and 3D subwavelength metamaterials. This method achieved a level of cost efficiency, scale, and speed previously deemed unattainable, merging academic brilliance with the practical agility needed to support and advance Meta Material Inc's ambitions to democratize nanofabrication and sustainable science by reaching square meters initially towards 100s of meters to kilometers length production scales with additional techniques like roll to roll nano-imprint lithography.

Andrea Alù: The Metamaterial Maestro

Prof. Alù, at the City University of New York, has revolutionized the field of electromagnetics, metamaterials and metasurfaces. His groundbreaking work on cloaking and invisible materials has far-reaching implications, from stealth technology to sensor applications, reshaping our understanding and interaction with electromagnetic waves from low-frequency sound waves to infra-red and beyond. Alù's recent pioneering work on extreme light and sound control showcases how non-local metasurfaces can be designed and manufactured to gain sub-wavelength spatial and spectral control in terms of amplitude, phase, polarization and even in capable of time reflection (Nature Physics 2023: "Observation of temporal reflection and broadband frequency translation at photonic time interfaces") His magnetic-free circulators for audio sound and radio wave inventions have enabled startups like Silicon Audio RF Circulator LLC in Austin, Texas. He has been able to translate scientific research into practical, market-driven solutions. Alù's dual role as an innovator in the lab and a leader in the industry exemplifies a seamless blend of academic research and entrepreneurial application, showcasing his commitment to advancing technology beyond the confines of the university setting.

Jeff Dahn: “Writing the book” on Li-ion batteries and Energy Storage

Prof. Dahn’s contributions at Dalhousie University, particularly in lithium-ion battery technology, have been crucial in the evolution of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. His work has significantly extended battery life, safety, and efficiency, vital for the sustainability of energy systems. From the onset of his career, Prof. Dahn has been a pivotal figure in the science of batteries and energy storage. His early work at Simon Fraser University laid the foundational understanding of carbon compounds in lithium-ion batteries. At Dalhousie University, Dr. Dahn's team developed lithium nickel-manganese-cobalt oxide compounds, enhancing battery safety and stability, now widely used in electric vehicles and power tools. Prof. Dahn's practical approach to science is exemplified in his collaborations with industry, notably with Tesla, focusing on improving lithium-ion batteries' lifespan, cost, and energy density. His commitment to applied research and mentorship has fostered a new generation of experts and innovators in the field, with many of his students going on to establish successful careers in the exponentially growing battery industry. I first met Prof. Dahn and toured his labs over a decade ago which played a pivotal role in deciding to move my family and our startup's headquarters from London, UK, to Halifax, Nova Scotia, which I proudly call my home.

A Tribute to Our Scientific Visionaries

Their collective involvement in my company, Meta Materials Inc. has been transformative beyond measure. They have all played an instrumental role in every facet of our company's growth - from securing initial funding and helping us forge strategic partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, to talent acquisition and new product development. Their foresight in patenting processes, promoting the value of DeepTech science, and establishing our company as a thought leader in #cleantech has been invaluable and I am forever grateful for their time and support. In our ongoing journey, we've been fortunate to have the support and insights of many other Scientific Advisors whose key contributions will be highlighted in a future article. It truly takes a village to drive innovation and progress.

Closing Thoughts

To Professors Alù, Brongersma, Dahn and Enghetta: Your impact extends far beyond scientific advice. You've helped navigate this company and others through the intricacies of innovation, turning challenges into opportunities and ideas into impactful realities.

In the words of Einstein, “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” Your contributions are the epitome of this philosophy, adding immeasurable value to not just our company, but to the broader scientific community. Your departure from an organization that failed to acknowledge your worth only highlights your invaluable role in our journey. Your legacy at Meta Materials Inc. is profound, and my gratitude for your mentorship and support is boundless.

Thank you for being the vanguards of our future, the mentors of our present, and the humble giants on whose shoulders we stand.

To future inventor-entrepreneurs and DeepTech investors: Significant technological progress lies in #DeepTech. It's a field where daring to dream big and apply that imagination to scientific and technical challenges leads to profound advancements offering category creating, generational investment opportunities.

#InnovationLeadership #Nanotechnology #Metamaterials #ScientificExcellence #Gratitude #EinsteinInspiration #GoBeyond