Meet MicroR Systems co-founder John Jost—a Venture Leader Deeptech who develops multichannel lasers that advance optical communication

17.11.2021 07:00, Isabelle Mitchell

MicroR develops cost- and energy-efficient multicolor lasers for high-capacity data transmission and optical computing. The startup’s lasers are based on “micrcomb” technology, which is more effective and efficient than existing solutions: MicroR’s optical micrcombs can replace hundreds of high-quality lasers used in today’s optical communications while being up to 10 times more energy-efficient and allowing 30 times higher data transmission rates at the same device size. Get to know MicroR Systems co-founder John, learn more about his expectations for the Venture Leaders experience, and discover which holiday he never misses—even when living in a landlocked country.

The Swiss National Startup Team has 10 new deeptech members: An expert jury has chosen 10 companies whose innovative potential transforms engineering, robotics, supply chains, logistics, and sustainability. Before the startups embark on their investor roadshow to Munich and London later this month, we will introduce you to the Venture Leaders Deeptech 2021. We asked each entrepreneur to complete a short profile and choose at least six questions from a questionnaire about their personal and professional life.

Name: John Jost  
Location: Lausanne 
Nationality: American 
Graduated from: University of Colorado at Boulder, Colorado, USA, with a PhD in Atomic and Quantum Physics, 2010 
Job title: CEO of MicroR Systems
Number of employees: 3 
Money raised: More than CHF 2 million in non-dilutive funding; currently no equity investment 
First touchpoint with Venturelab: In 2018—I started attending some of the great workshops and meetings organized by Venturelab.  
 
“At MicroR Systems, we make compact lasers with ultra-pure colors needed by precision applications ranging from data centers to quantum computing.” 
 
How and where did you come up with the idea for your startup? 
I moved to Switzerland from the US to do postdoctoral research at EPFL. The research we were working on is the basis of our company. Thanks to the early support from the European Space Agency and the Swiss NCCR Quantum Science and Technology program, I was able to commercialize the technology.
 
What do you expect from the Venture Leaders roadshow, and how will it help you achieve your vision? 
As a high-tech B2B company, growing our professional network is critical for us to reach key decision-makers and get our technology designed into their products. The notoriety from the Venture Leaders has already brought us a valuable contact, and I am excited to see what other doors it will open for us in the future.
 
What is one thing not many people know about you?
Hmm, my favorite holiday is International Talk Like a Pirate Day (September 19), and I have been celebrating that for years. Yarrr, matey! 

 
What is the one talent you wish you had? 
The abilty to spell better. 
 
What is your favorite book? 
I love science-fiction books such as The Lord of the Rings or The Witcher series. They provide a nice escape from the real world.  
 
What is always in your fridge? 
Barbeque sauce. (I grew up in Missouri, which is a famous area for BBQ in the US.)
 
What are you most proud of? 
Well, my new baby boy Aston of course, but besides that: During my PhD, I helped build the first working quantum computer.
 
What advice would you give your teenage self?
To learn to be more self-confident. It enables you to do so many more things.  
 
How did you come up with the name of your startup?
Ha Ha, on the train to Milan with my girlfriend. I was suggesting “Microresonator Systems.” She said that was awful and suggested “MicroR” instead. 
 
What is the most challenging aspect of being a founder? 
Definitely, the emotional rollercoaster was something I was not prepared for. It has really pushed me personally.  

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a founder?
I am proud of taking the chance and the ability to learn so many new things.  

What is the most important lesson you have learned as a founder?
Having a team to share the load is perhaps the most important thing. 
 
Last but not least, could you show us your workspace? 



For more information and updates on MicroR Systems and the Venture Leaders Deeptech, follow the Venture Leaders Deeptech 2021 team with #VLeadersDeeptech on social media or subscribe to our newsletter. 
 
Venture Leaders Deeptech 2021 program is organized by Venturelab and supported by swissnex, EPF Lausanne, ETH Zurich, Helbling Group, Walder Wyss, the Canton of Vaud, and the Canton of Zurich.