The METU OPTICA-SPIE Student Chapter represents two of the world's most prestigious optics societies. Both are well-established and leading organizations in their fields. OPTICA, currently known as The Optical Society, was founded in 1916 to unite scientists under one roof and to lead in research and education. SPIE, currently known as the international society of optics and photonics, was founded in 1955 to provide specialization in the field of optical instrumentation.

Since 2011, the METU Student Chapter has undertaken these missions on behalf of OPTICA, and since 2013 on behalf of SPIE. The aim of the chapter is to bring together students and staff who are interested in optics and photonics. The chapter organizes workshops, panels, presentations, seminars, field trips, meetings, and conferences. Additionally, it regularly hosts the Photonics Day conference series. In past years, the Photonics Day conferences have brought together science and industry. The purpose of these events is to keep abreast of developments in science, technology, and industry. The METU Student Chapter is also supported by the Physics Department and its faculty members. Prof. Raşit Turan serves as an advisor to the chapter on behalf of SPIE, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Figen Öktem serves as an advisor on behalf of OPTICA.

METU OPTICA-SPIE Student Chapter