About MicroAlign

Vision

We unleash the power of scalable optical networks towards the next computing era

MicroAlign Story - Management team

MicroAlign is the evolution of a PhD project started at the Eindhoven University of Technology in 2015. The project, led by Simone Cardarelli, focused on exploring fiber array–to–photonic chip active alignment methods based on both on-chip and off-chip solutions.

The off-chip approach investigated was based on integrating multiple actuators on a MEMS platform to align densely spaced optical fibers.

In 2019, the first MEMS prototype was realized a comb of micro-cantilevers, all connected at the base, with independent electronic control per cantilever.

This pioneering technology introduced significant optical, mechanical, and electronic challenges, and our two co-founders, Simone Cardarelli and Marco Fattori, joined forces to address them and turn this technology into reality

Simone and Marco shared not only this research passion but also a common academic background. Both studied at the same university in Italy, completing their Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees together, before collaborating again on their PhD projects in Eindhoven. Their synergy and strong bond proved fundamental in achieving remarkable technical result that later became the technological foundation of the company, built with both dedication and fun.

Following the success of the initial feasibility study, the duo realized the need for a third member to strengthen the team strategically and prepare for the entrepreneurial journey ahead. In summer 2021, Simone and Marco met Cees Luijendijk, an experienced business administration manager. Cees brought fresh energy, valuable business expertise, and lessons drawn from his past managerial roles. From the very beginning, the team bond was built on transparency, respect, passion for challenges, ambition, and love for diversity, values that continue to shape MicroAlign’s culture today.

Simone, Marco, and Cees are trusted colleagues as well as close friends, and together they now serve as the CEO, CTO, and CFO of MicroAlign.

MicroAlign journey of Precision Fiber Alignment

MicroAlign, a startup from Eindhoven, has rapidly emerged as a key player in high-accuracy fiber arrays and fiber array alignment solutions. Its path from research to commercialization is marked by significant milestones, driven by the innovative technology developed by our co-founders.

2015 — The Spark of Innovation

Simone Cardarelli began his PhD research at Eindhoven University of Technology, focusing on the complex challenge of optical fiber-to-chip connections. This research formed the foundation of MicroAlign’s technology and set the stage for future breakthroughs in precision alignment.

2019 — First MicroAlign Actuator Prototype

MicroAlign developed the first generation of the micro-actuator at the core of its active fiber array alignment technology. This prototype enabled simultaneous and independent control of eight fibers with nanometer-scale.

2021 — MicroAlign Takes Off

Following the successful culmination of Simone Cardarelli’s PhD research, MicroAlign officially launched as a spin-off from TU/e in April 2021. The company established its headquarters on the university campus and embarked on its mission to commercialize its revolutionary fiber alignment technology.

2022 — New Actuator Version and Active Alignment

MicroAlign introduces the next-generation micro-actuator and the first version of its active alignment system, which uses an array of photodetectors to generate optimized optical feedback for perfect fiber alignment. This system integrated the actuator, photodetectors, and electronics necessary for fast and precise alignment.

2024 — Major Funding and Product Scaling

In July 2024, MicroAlign achieves a key milestone by scaling down its micro-actuator technology, enabling it to handle up to 12 fibers at a 250 μm pitch. That same year, the company secured €1 million in seed funding led by DeepTechXL and PhotonVentures. This investment accelerates MicroAlign’s product development and market entry, enabling expansion of its R&D team and facilities, with applications spanning quantum photonic computing, data communication, and AI computing.