Optomechatronics Professors and Supervisors

G.K. KnopfView profile

Professor

Western UniversityCanada

Dr. G.K. Knopf is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical & Materials Engineering at Western University, Canada. He holds a Ph.D. (1991), M.Sc. (1987), and B.E. (1984) from the University of Saskatchewan. His work bridges product design, advanced manufacturing, and bio-inspired technologies. Research Focus: Dr. Knopf’s research spans 3D shape reconstruction , laser microfabrication , micro-optics , and bioelectronic imaging arrays . Recent projects emphasize light-driven actuators , flexible electronics , and graphene-based inks for printing circuits on unconventional substrates like silk and paper. Publications: Over 150 peer-reviewed works, including two edited CRC Press volumes ( Smart Biosensor Technology , Optical Nano and Micro Actuator Technology ). Key contributions involve non-lithographic fabrication , bacteriorhodopsin photodetectors , and self-organizing feature maps for data visualization. Awards/Patents: Co-inventor of two U.S. patents (6,542,249 for 3D surface measurement; 7,573,024 for bioelectronic imaging arrays). Teaching: Leads graduate courses in Medical Device Design and Optomechatronic Systems , as well as undergraduate Mechatronics and Medical Device Development courses.

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Behrooz YousefzadehView profile

Associate Professor

Concordia UniversityCanada

Behrooz Yousefzadeh is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Aerospace Engineering at Concordia University, Montreal. He leads the Wave and Vibration Engineering (WAVE) Lab, affiliated with the Applied Mathematics Lab of Quebec’s Centre de Recherches Mathématiques (CRM) and the Concordia Institute of Aerospace Design and Innovation (CIADI). His research focuses on nonlinear dynamics, mechanical metamaterials, architectural acoustics, and elastic wave propagation in periodic systems. His work bridges engineering, applied physics, and mathematics, with applications in vibration analysis of turbomachinery and novel wave-steering materials. Research Interests Mechanical vibrations and nonlinear dynamics Elastic wave propagation and metamaterials Stability analysis and architectural acoustics Nonreciprocal wave phenomena in spatiotemporally modulated systems Publications & Trends Recent work emphasizes nonreciprocal dynamics in modulated materials, phase-preserved wave steering, and defect engineering in periodic systems. Key contributions include experimental validation of nonreciprocal wave propagation and computational methods for nonlinear system analysis. Over 25 peer-reviewed articles highlight advancements in metamaterial design, parametric instability, and coiling fluid dynamics. Scientific Awards Best Paper Award at the International Symposium on Optomechatronic Systems (2014) Advising & Grants Supervised 6 students to completion (PhD/MASc). Active in securing research funding through collaborative projects with CRM, CIADI, and industry partners. Organized sessions at major conferences like SIAM, ICTAM, and Phononics. Labs & Collaborations WAVE Lab explores cutting-edge topics including: nonlinear wave steering, acoustic black holes in timber structures, and coiling patterns in fluid mechanics. Collaborations span applied mathematics, materials science, and aerospace engineering.

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Gert WitvoetView profile

Assistant Professor

Eindhoven University of TechnologyNetherlands

Gert Witvoet is a part-time Assistant Professor at the Mechanical Engineering Department of Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) , specializing in motion control for scientific applications. He is also a Senior Scientist at TNO Technical Sciences since 2012, working on optomechatronic control systems in space, astronomy, and Big Science projects. Research Focus: Motion control, feedback control, and injection locking in fusion plasmas Teaching: Coordinating Control Engineering and Motion Control Tuning courses Collaborations: TNO, DIFFER, and FOM Rijnhuizen His research explores the intersection of nuclear fusion and control technology, with a particular emphasis on stabilizing plasma instabilities in tokamak devices. He has contributed to projects like TROPOMI , LISA , and ITER , focusing on precise control mechanisms for high-tech systems. Recent work involves free-space optical communication systems, where he develops control algorithms for accurate pointing mechanisms in satellite-ground communications. His article trends highlight expertise in reset control , feedback stabilization , and dynamic noise budgeting . 2008: Best Junior Presentation (BJP) Award 2020: Best Paper Recognition at IEEE AMC2020 At TU/e, Witvoet supervises research projects and collaborates with industry partners via the Mechatronics Academy. His grants include TNO and FOM Rijnhuizen funding for fusion control systems. He works with the Control Systems Technology Group and contributes to the Learning, Identification and Control of High-Tech Systems research area.

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Martin JakobiView profile

Researcher

Technical University of MunichGermany

Dr.-Ing. Martin Jakobi is a researcher affiliated with the Chair of Measurement Systems and Sensor Technology at Technische Universität München, specializing in optical laser measurement and speckle measurement technologies. His work is associated with Environmental Sensing and Modeling under Prof. Chen. Research Interests: Optical laser measurement systems Speckle-based surface metrology Sensor technology for precision measurements Thin-film and surface analysis Teaching Activities: Optomechatronic Measuring Systems Photonic Measurement System Technology Measurement Technology for Computer Scientists and Mathematicians Practical Internships in Sensor Technology

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Markus BautschView profile

Professor

Beuth University of Applied Sciences BerlinGermany

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dipl.-Phys. Markus Bautsch is a full professor at the Berliner Hochschule für Technik (BHT) in the Department of Mechatronics since 2025. His career spans physics research, software development, and interdisciplinary studies connecting astronomy, music theory, and historical technology. PhD in Physics from Technical University of Berlin (TUB) Extensive work in international product testing consortia (ICRT) Contributions to DIN/DKE standards committees since 2003 Specializing in optomechatronic systems and computational modeling His research interests bridge optomechatronics and archaeoastronomy , with notable publications on ancient astronomical artifacts like the Tal-Qadi Sky Tablet and Rocher des Doms Stele . He has developed software for acoustic transmission lines , cellular automata , and celestial mechanics simulations. Bautsch's 15 most recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate his interdisciplinary approach through: Gravitational potential calculations for cosmic structures Digital restoration of 19th-century astronomical photographs Software implementations of historical mathematical patterns Analysis of spectroscopic principles in astrophysics Computational modeling of prehistoric orientation systems Programming language evolution from Basic to Component Pascal Scientific achievements include: 2024 Ehrenpreis der Berliner Hochschule für Technik Leadership in EU Twinning projects (2001-2005) Key role in International Consumer Research & Testing (ICRT) (2002-2025) Contributions to consumer protection standards with DIN/DKE As both a physicist and software engineer , Bautsch combines rigorous mathematical analysis with practical implementation skills across 8 programming languages since 1979. His work at the Wilhelm-Foerster-Sternwarte (since 2022) and MOBIUS European Project (2006-2008) demonstrates long-term commitment to public science and applied research.

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Hamed Sadeghian MarnaniView profile

Associate Professor

Eindhoven University of TechnologyNetherlands

Hamed Sadeghian Marnani is an Associate Professor and Chair of Nano-Optomechatronics Instrumentation at Eindhoven University of Technology's Mechanical Engineering Department. His research develops mechatronic systems for nanoscale imaging and fabrication, with applications in semiconductor metrology, 3D nanotomography, and biomedical diagnostics. He co-founded NEarfield Instruments BV, commercializing parallel AFM technology for semiconductor process control. His publications focus on subsurface microscopy, sensitivity analysis, and nano-transducers. Dr. Sadeghian holds over 60 patents and received the 'TNO excellent researcher' award (2012). He earned his PhD from Delft University of Technology (2010) and an MBA from Vlerick Business School (2014).

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Jonathan KofmanView profile

Adjunct Professor

University of WaterlooCanada

Jonathan Kofman is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Systems Design Engineering at the University of Waterloo, cross-appointed to Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering. He holds a Ph.D. from Western University, an M.A.Sc. from École Polytechnique de Montréal, and a B.Eng. from McGill University. His research focuses on biomechanics, biomedical device design, 3D imaging, and human-robot interaction. Notable contributions include commercial laser-camera range sensors, patented orthotic systems, and real-time 3D scanning technologies. Research interests span biomedical systems (wearable sensors, prosthetics/orthotics), optomechatronics (fringe-projection 3D measurement), and robotics (human-robot interfaces). His work addresses gait stability in amputees and elderly populations, using AI and wearable sensors for fall prediction. Kofman leads the Intelligent Human-Machine Systems Lab/Optomechatronic Systems Laboratories, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches combining sensor design, AI, and clinical applications. He has received the En-Hui Yang Engineering Research Innovation Award (2008) and authored over 80 peer-reviewed publications. Current activities include graduate supervision in biomedical systems, 3D imaging, and robotics, with a focus on equity and inclusion in research teams.

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Rainer J. BeckView profile

Research Fellow

Heriot-Watt UniversityUnited Kingdom

Rainer J. Beck is a Research Fellow at the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences within the School of Engineering & Physical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK. His research integrates laser physics with biomedical and environmental applications, focusing on precision instrumentation for surgical treatments and ecological impact studies. His expertise spans laser-tissue interactions, fiber-optic probe development, and ablation technologies. Key research areas include ultrashort-pulse laser surgery, miniature medical device fabrication, and biomechanical responses of marine organisms to climate stressors. This work bridges photonics, materials science, and clinical practice to advance minimally invasive procedures and environmental monitoring. Recent publications (2020-2025) reveal a trajectory toward increasingly sophisticated laser-based medical instruments, with emphasis on fiber-optic systems for ablation and diagnostics. These studies span biomedical engineering, photonics, and environmental science, demonstrating cross-disciplinary innovation in surgical tool design, coral biomechanics, and real-time tissue analysis. Dr. Beck collaborates extensively within Heriot-Watt's photonics ecosystem and with external medical/environmental researchers. His team develops open-architecture laser systems for surgical applications and in-situ process measurements, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals through healthcare technology and marine conservation research.

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Nazim BharmalView profile

Research Fellow

Durham UniversityUnited Kingdom

Dr. Nazim Bharmal is a Research Fellow in the Department of Physics at Durham University, specializing in adaptive optics and wavefront sensing technologies for astronomical applications. His work bridges optical engineering, machine learning, and instrumentation development. Research Focus: Adaptive optics, laser guide stars, neural networks for wavefront sensing, and high-contrast imaging systems. Key Collaborations: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, Journal of Astronomical Telescopes, Instruments, and Systems. Recent publications highlight his contributions to plenoptic wavefront sensors, data-driven adaptive optics control, and novel techniques like PPPP (Projected Pupil Plane Pattern) for laser guide star systems. These studies emphasize improving resolution in astronomical imaging through advanced sensor design and noise mitigation. His work on wind-driven halo artifacts in high-contrast images and quasi-static aberration calibration demonstrates expertise in addressing atmospheric and instrumental challenges in ground-based telescopes. Collaborations with institutions like the William Herschel Telescope and industry partners (e.g., SPIE) underscore his role in advancing observational astronomy.

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Tze Wei YeowView profile

Professor

University of WaterlooCanada

Professor Tze Wei Yeow holds the Canada Research Chair in Micro and Nanodevices and leads the Advanced Micro & Nanodevice Lab at the University of Waterloo. He is cross-appointed to Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering and Electrical and Computer Engineering. His expertise spans Micro/Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS/NEMS), biomedical sensor development, and optomechatronics. Notable achievements include pioneering transparent flexible radiation detectors commercialized via ARTsensing Inc., and receiving IEEE Fellow status and Royal Society of Canada recognition. Education: PhD, University of Toronto (2003) MASc, University of Toronto (1999) BASc, University of Toronto (1997) Research Interests: Focuses on integrating microelectronics with mechanical systems at micron scales. Key areas include MEMS-based medical imaging devices, nanodevice fabrication, and radiation shielding materials. Recent work emphasizes lab-on-a-chip systems and carbon nanotube sensors for biomedical applications. Awards: IEEE Canada Outstanding Engineer Award Engineering Excellence Medal (PEO) Fellow of Canadian Academy of Engineering Active in graduate education, currently supervising students in microassembly, optomechatronics, and radiation sensor development. Leads interdisciplinary teams advancing nanotechnology commercialization through partnerships with industry. Serves as Editor-in-Chief of IEEE Nanotechnology Magazine and holds leadership roles in IEEE technical councils.

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Henning AhlersView profile

Professor

Hannover University of Applied Sciences and ArtsGermany

Prof. Henning Ahlers is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Hannover University of Applied Sciences and Arts. His research focuses on advanced manufacturing technologies, particularly additive manufacturing, laser processes, and materials science. Key areas include laser wire bonding, functional graded materials, and the integration of optical and thermal components. His work emphasizes applications in aerospace, automotive, and optomechanical systems, with a focus on material efficiency, process optimization, and system design. Notable projects involve developing coaxial laser deposition systems for multifunctional components and investigating in-situ alloying techniques for enhanced material properties. Research Projects: Includes studies on laser cladding, defect detection in additive manufacturing, and the generative manufacturing of optical/thermal components. Key Contributions: Pioneering work in laser double-wire directed energy deposition, material intermixing behavior analysis, and additive manufacturing of glass and polymer materials. Prof. Ahlers' academic contributions span over two decades, with publications addressing topics from early 2000s machine tool concepts to cutting-edge 2020s additive manufacturing innovations.

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Alexander WolfView profile

Researcher

Leibniz University HannoverGermany

Dr. Alexander Wolf is a researcher affiliated with the Leibniz University Hannover, specifically within the Exzellenzcluster PhoenixD: Photonics, Optics, and Engineering cluster. He is a member of the Task Group S1: Macro Optical Systems, focusing on advanced optical systems research. His work bridges photonics, additive manufacturing, and automotive applications. Research interests include optical component design , additive manufacturing of optical materials , and automotive lighting systems . Recent publications highlight innovations in laser heat sinks, LiDAR systems, and optomechatronic methodologies. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly in photonics engineering and materials science. He holds a Dr.-Ing. (Engineering Doctorate) and contributes to the PhoenixD cluster’s goals of advancing optical technologies. Contact: alexander.wolf@aei.mpg.de .

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Kok-Meng LeeView profile

Professor

Georgia Institute of TechnologyUnited States

Kok-Meng Lee is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology, affiliated with the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering. His primary research focuses on Automation, Mechatronics, and advanced control systems, with notable contributions to spherical motor design, vision-based motion control, and biomedical applications. He has led interdisciplinary projects in collaboration with institutions like Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology and Nanyang Technological University. Education Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1985 S.M., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1982 B.S., State University of New York at Buffalo, 1980 Research Interests Professor Lee’s work spans high-precision motion control systems, smart manufacturing automation, and bio-inspired robotics. Key innovations include spherical motor designs for micro-factories, vision-guided robotic systems for poultry processing, and mobile sensor networks for structural health monitoring. His research integrates machine vision, micro-magnetics, and flexible structural design to address challenges in biomedical engineering and industrial automation. Distinctions & Awards American Society of Mechanical Engineers Fellow (2005) IEEE Fellow (2005) National Science Foundation Presidential Young Investigator Award (1989–1993) Multiple best paper awards as advisor to doctoral students Advising & Grants He has advised numerous graduate students, many of whom have won prestigious awards under his mentorship. His research has been supported by entities like Maxtor Corporation, Lucent Technologies, and the Georgia Agricultural Technology Research Program. Labs & Teams Director of the Advanced Intelligent Mechatronics Research Laboratory (AIMRL), which develops cutting-edge solutions in mechatronics and automation. Collaborates internationally on projects such as visual prosthetics for the visually impaired and bio-inspired flying robots.

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