The 17th International Conference on Laser Ablation (COLA 2024) took place from September 29 to October 4, 2024, at the Creta Maris Resort Hotel in Hersonissos, Crete, Greece, and was co-organized by the Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL) of the Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH). This year's conference marked a return to in-person events after nearly four years of online meetings, offering a vibrant forum for laser scientists from around the world. This is the second time that “COLA” was hosted in Crete, with the previous one taking place 21 years ago in 2003.

The Director of the Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser, Prof. Vasilis Ntziachristos, as well as Professors Carlo Liberale (KAUST, Saudi Arabia) and Hidetoshi Katori (University of Tokyo, Japan), was among the distinguished keynote speakers.

These eminent researchers delivered keynote speeches on the latest developments and future directions in laser applications, focusing on interdisciplinary research and practical applications.

"We are delighted to once again welcome participants to an in- person COLA Conference", said Maria Farsari, Mangirdas Malinauskas, Masoud Mahjouri Samani and Godai Miyaji, who consist the COLA 2024 Organizing Committee.

"COLA has always been a catalyst for scientific collaboration and innovation, and this year's event is expected to be outstanding."

The Conference, was held for the first time in 1991, and continues to promote meaningful scientific exchanges, support talented young researchers and strengthen global networks in the field of laser science.