Cycle
Since 2011 he has been at DESY, where he further developed the components and synchronization units until they were finally mature enough to be brought to the market. Cycle develops and builds laser-based synchronization systems for large-scale research facilities, as well as ultrashort pulse laser systems for applications in the Life Sciences sector.
Having founded a company coming from science, what lessons have you learned?
In order to start a company coming from science, you need to have a lot of perseverance. Products that originate in basic research often still need considerable development and therefore require considerable investment before a marketable product is ready. In addition, there’s often no large market for very innovative products, since the understanding of the possible, completely new applications for these products in the industry is non-existent.
What do you recommend to other founders?
A good business plan and a balanced founding team. You also need patience and stamina.
How important is the network on the research campus for you?
The network is important for quick and easy exchange of information on all typical start-up problems and to share experiences with other start-ups.
Where will Cycle be in 5 years? What are the company's goals?
That’s easy: in 5 years we want to be an innovative, medium-sized company in ultrashort pulse laser technology, with a diverse product portfolio. Today we have 15 employees and we’re on a stable growth trajectory.
More information about Cycle can be found here.