The European Laboratory for Non-linear Spectroscopy (LENS, www.lens.unifi.it) is the largest
interdisciplinary laser laboratory in Italy and a part of a European network of large-scale laser facilities.
Established in 1991, LENS is associated with the University of Florence. It provides advanced laser and
spectroscopic facilities for researchers from Europe, promotes and facilitates the exchange of ideas, scientific techniques, and technical skills.
Research at LENS focuses on the use of laser light to investigate matter from different points of view and
under different conditions encountered in atomic physics, photonics, biophotonics and chemistry.
LENS is among the founders of LASERLAB-Europe, a consortium of 33 leading institutions from 16 countries
dedicated to offering access to high-tech laser facilities to European researchers. LENS has actively
participated in FET programmes since FP5. Up to now, 10 ERC grantees have worked at LENS, testifying the
excellence of its research. LENS is also part of the National Research Infrastructure Roadmap as one of the
most important interdisciplinary research institution in Italy, such as advanced laser and spectroscopic facilities open to researchers from European countries.