Aston University, through its Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AiPT), brings leadership in photonics, with strengths in high-speed optical communications, optical amplifiers and sensing, fibre technologies and devices, optical computing and networks, and AI/ML and data science for communications.

The University of Brescia (UNIBS) brings expertise in electromagnetic waves, microwave technologies, wireless communications and signal processing. Its research also covers optical frequency combs, nonlinear optics, ultrashort pulse generation, fibre laser dynamics, antenna design and data-driven system modelling, supporting SMARTLight's interdisciplinary approach to 6G technologies.

Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel (CAU) contributes expertise in electrical and information engineering, digital communications, AI-based network control and optimisation. Its research strengths include optical network architectures, predictive fault management, next-generation data centre networks, optical satellite communications and machine learning for communication systems.

Université Marie et Louis Pasteur (UMLP) contributes advanced expertise in ultrafast photonics, nonlinear optics, light–matter interactions, nano- and quantum photonics. Its research strengths also include neuromorphic photonics, optical computing, integrated optics and optoelectronic dynamics, supporting innovation in next-generation optical technologies.