Peter Rakich

Peter Rakich is an Associate Professor of Applied Physics at Yale University, leading the Rakich Lab. His research focuses on experimental nonlinear optics and optomechanics, with emphasis on photon-phonon interactions, nanoscale optical forces, and high-Q resonators. He holds a Ph.D. from MIT and has contributed to advancements in ultra-stable lasers, quantum optomechanical systems, and integrated photonics.

• Education: Ph.D. in Applied Physics from MIT
• Research Areas: Nonlinear Optics, Optomechanics, Quantum Optomechanics, and Nanophotonics

His current projects include developing radiation-pressure-driven optomechanical systems, Brillouin lasers, and wafer-scale fabrication of high-Q resonators. Rakich’s work bridges quantum technologies and practical applications, such as low-noise microwave generation and quantum state control of acoustic phonons. His lab collaborates on projects involving photonic integrated circuits, superconducting qubits, and terahertz devices.

Publications highlight innovations like ultrastable optical cavities, low-loss waveguides, and quantum optomechanical control. Rakich holds multiple patents on optically induced potentials, mid-infrared lasers, and supercollimation in photonic crystals. His research has been featured in Nature Photonics, Physical Review X, and Optics Letters.