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Komron ShayeganView profile

Researcher

• Applied Physics
• Materials Science
• Nanophotonics
• +5 more

Komron Shayegan is a Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate in Applied Physics and Materials Science, currently affiliated with the Electrical Engineering department. He earned his B.S.E. in Electrical Engineering from Princeton University in 2018, with a concentration in Electronic Devices and Materials. His career includes research at attocube systems AG in electronics, followed by advanced studies and publications in thermal radiation and nanophotonics. Princeton University (B.S.E. 2018) – Electrical Engineering, Electronic Devices and Materials Komron’s research focuses on nonreciprocal thermal radiation, nanophotonic engineering, and optical metasurfaces. He explores magneto-optical coupling, infrared absorption, and broadband emissivity control, with applications in energy efficiency and optical communication. His work also extends to organic electronics and thin-film solar cell optimization. Key trends in Komron’s publications include thermal radiation manipulation, magneto-optical effects, metasurface design, and advanced optical coatings. His studies bridge semiconductor physics, nanophotonics, and infrared spectroscopy, emphasizing directional and spectral control of thermal emission and absorption. Komron’s lab work involves experimental validation of Kirchhoff’s law violations, development of electrically tunable apertures, and deposition techniques for low-refractive-index materials. While formal grants and awards aren’t listed, his contributions to high-power optical devices and reconfigurable surfaces highlight his technical expertise.

Nick BataraView profile

Consultant Lecturer

• Photovoltaics
• Semiconductor Films
• Computational Modeling
• +1 more

Dr. Nick Batara is a Consultant in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Exponent Failure Analysis Associates , specializing in photovoltaics and semiconductor materials. He earned his PhD in Materials Science in 2017, focusing on computational modeling of light-directed meso-structured semiconductor films. Research Interests: Photovoltaics, semiconductor films, computational modeling, and materials science. Publications highlight his work in optoelectronic materials, plasmonic systems, and photonic nanostructures. Notable trends include advancements in 2D semiconductor alloys, transparent conductive contacts, and mid-infrared photonic crystals.

Francesco MonticoneView profile

Assistant Professor

• Applied Electromagnetics
• Metamaterials
• Plasmonics
• +4 more

Francesco Monticone is an Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Cornell University. He earned his B.Sc. and M.Sc. (summa cum laude) from Politecnico di Torino, Italy (2009, 2011), and his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin (2016) under Prof. Andrea Alu. Joining Cornell in 2017, his research bridges electromagnetics, metamaterials, and nanophotonics with applications from microwaves to optical frequencies. Education: B.Sc., Politecnico di Torino (2009) M.Sc., Politecnico di Torino (2011) Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin (2016) His research focuses on wave interaction with engineered materials, including cloaking, non-Hermitian systems, and topological electromagnetics. He explores non-traditional paradigms like time-modulated metasurfaces and photonic time crystals to overcome physical limitations in absorption, reflection, and nonlinear optics. Recent work spans nonlocal flat optics , multi-MHz wireless power transfer , and quantum optical metasurfaces , emphasizing cross-disciplinary innovation. His publications in journals like Physical Review Letters and Nature Nanotechnology highlight extreme wave control and causality-driven design. Scientific Awards Michael Tien ’72 Sustained Excellence and Innovation in Engineering Education Award (2020) Leopold B. Felsen Award for Excellence in Electrodynamics (2019) AFOSR Young Investigator Program Award (2018) Margarida Jacome Dissertation Award (2017) Dr. Monticone has authored 100+ peer-reviewed works with 5000+ citations and delivered 40+ invited talks. He serves as a reviewer for journals/conferences and has been on the organizing committee of the Metamaterials Congress since 2015. His research group combines theoretical, numerical, and experimental approaches to push boundaries in applied electromagnetics.

• Biophysics
• Optical Physics
• Nanophotonics
• +5 more

PD Dr. Theobald Lohmueller is a researcher at the University of Munich , affiliated with the Optics / Membrane Biophysics department. His work focuses on developing optical tools to study and manipulate biological systems using photo-switchable molecules and plasmonic nanoparticles. Research Themes: Optical control of lipid bilayer membranes Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) Plasmonic particle manipulation Localized heat generation in biophysics Nanophotonic biosensors Quantum science applications Recent Article Trends: Advancements in high-Q metasurfaces for biospectroscopy AI-enabled classification of membrane dynamics Indefinite near-infrared photoswitching mechanisms Single-protein SERS detection via DNA-origami Dynamic trapping of plasmonic dimers Contact: t.lohmueller@lmu.de

Michele CotrufoView profile

Assistant Professor

• Metamaterials
• Quantum Metamaterials
• Quantum Optics
• +4 more

Michele Cotrufo is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Optics, with expertise in nanophotonics and quantum optics. He obtained his BS (2010) and MS (2012) in Physics from the University of Bari and Padova, Italy, followed by a PhD at Eindhoven University of Technology (Netherlands) in 2017. His postdoctoral work spanned the University of Texas at Austin and CUNY Advanced Science Research Center (New York City). Research Interests: Optical Metasurfaces Quantum Metamaterials Quantum Optics Hybrid Optomechanical Systems Scientific Award: Photonics Young Investigator Award (MDPI, 2023) Teaching: • OPT 201: Geometrical Optics • OPT 412: Quantum Mechanics - Optics

• 3D Printing Technology
• Metamaterials
• Photonics
• +4 more

Martin Wegener is a Professor at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), leading the APH research group within the Department of Physics. His work focuses on advanced 3D printing technologies, metamaterials, and laser-based fabrication methods. Notably, his research group has developed compact 3D laser nanoprinters and explored applications in nanotechnology, photonics, and biomedical engineering. His research interests include multi-photon lithography, nonlocal metamaterials, and the integration of machine learning for in-situ process control. Recent advancements involve parallelized 3D printing techniques and the use of deep learning for optical tomographic reconstruction during printing. Wegener’s contributions span from fundamental material science to applied technologies like semiconductor fabrication and pathogen detection systems. Publications highlight innovations such as roton-like dispersion engineering in metamaterials, high-strength carbon nanolattices, and metasurface-based microcavities. His work bridges physics, materials science, and engineering, with a focus on pushing the boundaries of additive manufacturing and optical systems.

William WhittowView profile

Professor

• Radiofrequency Materials
• Antenna Design
• Metamaterials
• +5 more

Professor William Whittow is a Professor of Radiofrequency Materials and Head of the Wireless Communications Research Group at Loughborough University. With over 20 years of expertise in RF devices and materials, he has held roles including Lecturer (2012), Senior Lecturer (2014), Reader (2018), and Professor (2020). He has published over 300 papers (100+ journal articles) and secured £14m+ in grants, leading projects on dielectric measurements and industry collaborations. His research focuses on antenna design, metamaterials, 3D printing for RF applications, and bioelectromagnetics. He has delivered over 40 invited talks and completed 20+ consultancy projects, including work at the European School of Antennas. Key awards include the Women’s Engineering Society “Men As Allies” Award (2017), Fellow of the Institute of Engineering and Technology (FIET), and Senior Member of IEEE (SMIEEE). His work emphasizes women in engineering advocacy. He has supervised 15 students who won awards for their research. His lab develops novel RF materials and antennas, such as 3D-printed metamaterials and beam-steering systems for 5G/6G networks. Current projects include smart antennas, optically transparent waveguides, and aerospace RF systems. Research highlights: 3D-printed RF devices and dielectric composites Metasurface-based OAM beam generation Corrugated SIW antennas for mm-wave applications EM shielding materials for composites Beamforming and reconfigurable antenna arrays

Thomas FollandView profile

Assistant Professor

• Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
• Optics and Photonics
• Quantum Information
• +3 more

Thomas Folland is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Iowa, specializing in condensed matter and materials physics. His research focuses on mid- and far-infrared nanophotonics, quantum materials, and their applications in device development. He joined the university in Fall 2020 and leads the Quantum Nanophotonic Materials Lab, exploring infrared detectors, light sources, and nanophotonic systems. He holds a PhD from the University of Manchester and conducted postdoctoral research in Vanderbilt University’s Mechanical Engineering lab, where he developed infrared spectroscopy techniques for nanophotonics. His work integrates physics, materials science, electrical engineering, and chemistry, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration with national and international institutions. Research interests include surface polaritons in low-symmetry crystals, wide band gap semiconductors, and 2D materials. Students in his lab engage in infrared spectroscopy, device fabrication, and computational modeling. Folland is active in early-career researcher support through the MRS Early Career Subcommittee, advocating for career development programs. His lab addresses challenges in polariton engineering, thermal emission control, and optoelectronic systems, with applications in sensing, imaging, and quantum technologies. Key achievements include studies on isotopically pure hBN, hyperbolic polaritons in gallium oxide, and tunable VO2 thin films.

Bart RaeymaekersView profile

Professor

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Tribology
• 3D Printing
• +7 more

Bart Raeymaekers is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Virginia Tech, part of the College of Engineering. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from UC San Diego (2007), an MBA from MIT (2009), and earlier degrees from institutions in Belgium. His research focuses on tribology, advanced manufacturing, and materials design, particularly in prosthetic implants and additive manufacturing. He leads the Manufacturing and Tribology Laboratory, which explores engineered materials using ultrasound directed self-assembly and integrates these techniques with additive manufacturing methods. Education: Ph.D. (UCSD 2007), M.S. (UCSD 2005), MBA (MIT 2009), and prior degrees from Belgian institutions. His research interests include elasto-hydrodynamic lubrication, micro/nano-scale surface engineering, and bioinspired materials. Notable contributions involve reducing polyethylene wear in prosthetic implants and developing methods for aligning microfibers in composites. He has advised over 20 students and holds awards such as the ASME Fellowship (2019) and the STLE Poster Competition (2021). Awards: 2021 STLE Poster 2nd Place, 2019 ASME Fellow, 2018 Biological Materials Session 1st Place. Current projects involve data-driven models for additive manufacturing surfaces, surface topography analysis, and metamaterial fabrication. He teaches mechanical design courses at Virginia Tech and previously at the University of Utah. His lab collaborates with industry partners like Western Digital and sponsors including the NSF and NIH.

Shima ShahabView profile

Associate Professor

• Structural Dynamics
• Wave Propagation
• Smart Materials
• +6 more

Shima Shahab is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Virginia Tech, with a secondary appointment at the Virginia Tech Research Center (VTRC) in Arlington, VA. She directs the Multiphysics Intelligent and Dynamical Systems (MInDS) Laboratory, focusing on structural dynamics, wave propagation in smart materials, and ultrasound-driven technologies. Her research spans applications like wireless acoustic power transfer, acoustic holograms, and biomedical devices. Education: Ph.D. (2015), M.S. (2013), and B.S. (2004) in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Kerman (Iran), and Georgia Tech, respectively. Research interests include ultrasound-responsive polymers, nonlinear acoustics, and interdisciplinary systems. Key achievements: NSF CAREER Award (2022), Gary Anderson Early Achievement Award (2023), and recognition as an Emerging Leader in Smart Materials (2024). She has published extensively and collaborates across engineering and liberal arts fields. Grants and funding include NSF awards totaling $3.8M for MInDS, including CAREER and EAGER grants. Her lab supports 13 PhD candidates and 20 undergraduates. Awards also include ASME honors and fellowships like the Mary V. Jones Faculty Fellowship. Labs/Teams: MInDS Lab (focusing on multiphysics systems) and collaborations with biomedical engineering, mining safety, and arts disciplines.

Linbo ShaoView profile

Assistant Professor

• Nanophotonics
• Integrated Photonics
• Nanofabrication
• +7 more

Linbo Shao is an Assistant Professor in the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Virginia Tech. His research focuses on integrated multi-physics systems, combining optics, acoustics, microwave engineering, and quantum technologies on platforms like lithium niobate and diamond. He leads the Hybrid Nanoscale Systems Research Group, developing hybrid devices for applications in sensing, quantum information, and signal processing. Education: PhD in Engineering Sciences (Harvard University, 2019), MS in Applied Physics (Harvard, 2016), BS in Microelectronics (Peking University, 2014). Research Interests: Nanophotonics, integrated photonics, nanofabrication, electro-optics, quantum photonics, phononics, surface acoustic waves, and diamond-based defect centers. His lab explores phononic-crystal oscillators, mid-infrared detection, and cryogenic power device characterization. Notable Achievements: Featured in Virginia Tech news for mid/long-wavelength infrared detection research. Advised Master’s graduates Saurabh Kuruvila and Nitheesh Prakash. Active in developing ultrafast optically controlled power switches and acoustic-optic integrated systems. Labs/Teams: Hybrid Nanoscale Systems Research Group at Virginia Tech, located in Whittemore Hall. Current projects include quantum platform development and cryogenic material testing.

Wenhong YangView profile

Researcher

• Nanophotonics
• Metamaterials
• Plasmonics
• +4 more

Wenhong Yang is a Researcher at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) , affiliated with the School of Engineering and the BIOS (Bionanophotonics Systems Laboratory) . His research focuses on advanced photonics technologies, including nanophotonics , metamaterials , and plasmonics . He explores applications in optical sensors, holography, and nanostructured devices. Recent work highlights include plasmonic-based spectrometers, meta-holograms, and superhydrophobic nanoparticle assemblies for chemical sensing. Yang’s articles emphasize innovations in smart optical systems , light manipulation , and reconfigurable metamaterials . His contributions bridge fundamental photonics research with practical applications in imaging, security, and biomedical optics. He collaborates closely with EPFL’s BIOS lab, leveraging interdisciplinary approaches to address challenges in nanoscale photonics and optical engineering.

Victor BrarView profile

Associate Professor

• Scanning Tunneling Microscopy
• 2D Materials
• Magnetic Materials
• +5 more

Victor Brar is a Van Vleck Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His research focuses on scanning tunneling microscopy, 2D materials, and advanced optical systems. Key areas include graphene plasmonics, thermal emission control, and nanoscale device engineering. Brar leads the Brar Lab, which explores quantum transport phenomena and novel materials for optoelectronic applications. He collaborates with the Condensed Matter Experiment group and has pioneered techniques in scanned probe microscopy and metasurface design. Brar’s work bridges experimental physics with cutting-edge instrumentation. Recent advancements include dynamic beam steering in thermal lasers and electrostatic modulation of delocalized modes. His research also addresses challenges in laser sail thermal stability and single photon emitter characterization in 2D semiconductors. Key contributions include developing tunable mid-infrared plasmonic devices and demonstrating gate-variable optical transitions in topological insulators. His lab employs advanced imaging techniques like Kelvin probe force microscopy and photothermal interferometry for material defect analysis. Current projects explore haptic feedback systems for intuitive microscopy control and vibration isolation for cryogenic environments.

Jennifer ChoyView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Quantum Physics
• Nanophotonics
• Atomic Physics
• +3 more

Jennifer Choy is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison . Her research focuses on quantum sensing, nanophotonics, and atomic physics, particularly leveraging nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond for applications in timekeeping, magnetometry, and photonic engineering. Research Areas : Quantum Optics, Materials Science, Semiconductor Physics, Atomic Physics Key Contributions : Advancements in diamond-based quantum sensors, metasurface optics, and entangled photon applications Her recent work demonstrates trends in engineering photonic structures for enhanced light extraction, studying depth-dependent properties of color centers, and developing robust quantum devices for dynamic environments. She was awarded the NSF CAREER Award for her project on solid-state quantum navigation and timekeeping. Contact: jennifer.choy@wisc.edu

Laila Fighera MarzallView profile

Academic

• Broadband Phased Arrays
• Non-Reciprocal Devices
• MMIC Power Amplifiers
• +3 more

Laila Fighera Marzall is an Assistant Research Professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, specializing in Electromagnetics, RF & Microwaves. Her research focuses on broadband phased arrays, active circulators, and MMIC power amplifiers, with expertise in non-reciprocal devices and high-frequency RF components. She holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from CU Boulder (2009 M.Sc. from Aeronautics Institute of Technology, Brazil; 2014 MBA from Fundação Getúlio Vargas). Her work emphasizes innovative solutions for phased array systems, including tunable Butler matrices and GaN-based components. Recent projects include full-duplex front-ends, bio-inspired antennas for WBAN, and Rydberg atom RF receivers. She is a Senior IEEE Member and URSI Associate Member. Key research trends in her articles include advancements in phased array architectures, non-reciprocal device integration, and high-frequency MMIC designs. Her contributions span both theoretical modeling and practical implementations in biomedical and quantum sensing applications. Marzall collaborates on grants advancing RF/microwave technologies for communication systems and has pioneered bio-inspired antenna designs. Her lab focuses on integrating active components with next-generation phased arrays, addressing challenges in bandwidth, power efficiency, and signal integrity.