optical/NIR interferometry Professors and Supervisors

Giuseppe SansoneView profile

Professor

Albert Ludwig University of FreiburgGermany

Giuseppe Sansone is a full professor of experimental physics at the University of Freiburg, leading the Attosecond and Strong Field Physics group. He holds an Internal Senior Fellow position (Sep 2024–Apr 2025) and previously held postdoctoral fellowships at RIKEN (Japan) and the Max-Planck-Institute (Germany). His work focuses on attosecond metrology at free-electron lasers and ultrafast molecular dynamics using coincidence spectroscopy. Key contributions include the development of the Extreme Light Infrastructure Attosecond Light Pulse Source (ELI-ALPS) in Hungary. His research spans attosecond pulse characterization, quantum control in extreme UV domains, and coherent control mechanisms in molecular systems. Education: PhD in Physics (2004, Politecnico Milano), career progression from assistant to associate professor at Politecnico Milano before joining Freiburg in 2016. Research interests include: attosecond temporal structure analysis, nonlinear XUV applications, wave-packet manipulation in Rydberg states, and femtosecond polarization shaping. His experimental setups leverage seeded free-electron lasers and advanced spectroscopic techniques. Publications highlight advancements in photoelectron interferometry, resonance dynamics, and ultrafast nuclear motion studies. His work bridges atomic/molecular physics with cutting-edge laser technologies. Awards: JSPS Short-Term Postdoc Fellowship (2007), Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship (2009-2010). Lab leadership: Director of the Attosecond and Strong Field Physics group at Freiburg, contributing to ELI-ALPS infrastructure development. His team focuses on time-resolved XUV-IR coincidence spectroscopy and novel attosecond timing tools.

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Jacob IsbellView profile

Researcher

University of ArizonaUnited States

Jacob Isbell is a Researcher at the Steward Observatory, University of Arizona, where he joined in January 2024 to collaborate with Dr. Steve Ertel on developing and supporting LBT Interferometric observations. His research focuses on active galactic nuclei (AGN) dynamics at sub-parsec scales, particularly exploring the interplay between AGN and their host galaxies using dust emission to trace gas inflows and outflows. He earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa and a Ph.D. from the University of Heidelberg in 2022, where his work with the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy involved studying nearby AGN using the VLTI/MATISSE instrument for subparsec-scale imaging. Jacob’s research interests include optical/NIR interferometry, black hole-host galaxy connections, and galaxy evolution. He is currently engaged in advancing observational techniques to understand AGN feedback mechanisms and their role in cosmic structure formation. His academic background includes postdoctoral and collaborative efforts at leading institutions, contributing to the development of interferometric tools for high-resolution astrophysical studies.

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Sridhar KrishnaswamyView profile

Professor

Northwestern UniversityUnited States

Sridhar Krishnaswamy is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Director of the Center for Smart Structures and Materials at Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering. He holds affiliations with the Theoretical and Applied Mechanics Graduate Program. His research focuses on multifunctional materials, 3D direct laser writing, photonic/ultrasonic sensors, and smart structures. Ph.D. in Aeronautics from Caltech (Pasadena, CA) M.S. in Aeronautics from Caltech B.Tech. in Aeronautics from IIT Madras, India His work spans innovations in optical fiber sensors, metamaterials, and structural health monitoring. Key contributions include 3D-printed sensors and inverse-designed photonic devices. Recent articles emphasize magnetic field sensing, metamaterial characterization, and high-Q emission systems. VS Jain Memorial Award (2011) ASME Fellow (2006) Multiple SPIE Milestone selections He leads interdisciplinary projects involving AI-driven material design and additive manufacturing. Direct laser writing techniques form a core theme in his sensor development.

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Neil CookView profile

Researcher

University of MontrealCanada

Neil Cook is a Researcher at the University of Montreal's Institut de recherche sur les exoplanètes (iREx). His work focuses on developing software tools for astronomical instrumentation, notably co-creating the APERO pipeline for data reduction with SPIRou and NIRPS spectrographs. He contributes to the James Webb Space Telescope's data analysis, particularly in NIRISS/SOSS and AMI modes. His research spans exoplanet detection, brown dwarf studies, and advancing observational techniques through instrument software development. Research Interests: Neil’s expertise lies at the intersection of software engineering and astrophysics. He specializes in creating open-source pipelines for high-precision spectroscopic data reduction, enabling global collaboration in exoplanet discovery and stellar characterization. His work emphasizes improving radial velocity measurements, mitigating stellar activity effects, and optimizing next-generation instruments like ANDES for the Extremely Large Telescope. Collaborations: Active in the SPIRou Legacy Survey, he collaborates with institutions like the CFHT and ESO. His projects include analyzing M dwarf magnetic fields, planetary system dynamics, and atmospheric escape processes in exoplanets. Neil also participates in software planning for upcoming instruments such as ANDES and JWST's AMI mode. Labs/Teams: Core member of iREx, contributing to both observational campaigns and software infrastructure for the institute's multi-instrument collaborations.

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Rupert OultonView profile

Professor

Imperial College LondonUnited Kingdom

Professor Rupert Oulton is a Professor of Nanophotonics in the Department of Physics at Imperial College London's Faculty of Natural Sciences. He leads research in nanophotonics, plasmonics, and quantum imaging, with affiliations across several research centers including the Centre for Plasmonics and Metamaterials, Centre for Processable Electronics, Experimental Solid State Physics Group, Physics Permanent Researchers, Quantum Engineering, Science and Technology, and The Matter Community. Professor Oulton's educational background includes a PhD in Physics from Imperial College London under Prof. Gareth Parry FREng, an MSci from Imperial College London, and a PGCert in Educational Development. His career progression at Imperial College London has been from Leverhulme Lecturer (2010-2017) to Reader (2017-2020) and finally to Professor of Nanophotonics (2020-present). Professor Oulton's research focuses on overcoming the diffraction limit of light through plasmonics and nanophotonics. His work spans several key areas: Semiconductor Plasmonics - Exploiting plasmonic effects in silicon and III-V semiconductors for faster optical communications Bose-Einstein Condensates of Light - Developing semiconductor photon BECs for quantum applications Non-linear Optical Metamaterials - Engineering artificial materials for strong optical non-linearity Quantum Imaging - Developing methods for imaging with undetected photons Plasmon Lasers - Creating lasers that focus optical energy in both time and space Analysis of Professor Oulton's recent publications shows a strong focus on quantum imaging with undetected photons, plasmonic enhancement of light-matter interactions, and Bose-Einstein condensation of light. His work bridges fundamental physics with practical applications in sensing, communications, and quantum technologies. Professor Oulton has received significant recognition for his work, including: APS Beller Lectureship (2012) EPSRC Career Acceleration Fellowship (2010-2015) Professor Oulton actively supervises PhD students and has secured multiple grants to support his research, including funding from the UK's quantum imaging hub (until Nov 2024), the Reactive Plasmonics Grant (until Jul 2021), and an EPSRC grant for 'Robust manufacturable antimicrobial surfaces enabled by superhard plasmon-enhanced photocatalytic materials' (2022-2025). He collaborates internationally with institutions including UC Berkeley, King's College London, and various European universities. Professor Oulton's laboratory focuses on experimental nanophotonics, plasmonics, and quantum optics research. His team investigates how to squeeze light into extremely small regions to enhance light-matter interactions, with applications ranging from quantum imaging to advanced optical communications.

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Pierre BeriniView profile

Professor

University of OttawaCanada

Pierre Berini is Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Engineering, and Professor of Physics in the Faculty of Science. He serves as Director of the Centre for Research in Photonics (CRPuO) and Director of NanoFab at the University of Ottawa. As a Distinguished University Professor (2018) and University Research Chair in Surface Plasmon Photonics, he leads significant research initiatives in optics and photonics. His educational background includes: Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from École Polytechnique de Montréal (1995) M.Sc.A. in Electrical Engineering from École Polytechnique de Montréal (1992) B.E.Sc. in Electrical Engineering from University of Western Ontario (1990) B.Sc. in Computer Science from University of Western Ontario (1990) Professor Berini's research program focuses primarily on plasmonics, with particular emphasis on surface plasmon-polariton (SPP) waves and their applications. His work spans waveguides and passive elements, micro/nanofabrication, integrated circuits, telecom devices, nanoantennas, amplification, biosensors, electromagnetic theory, numerical modeling, semiconductor devices, and microwave circuits. He has pioneered developments in long-range surface plasmon polariton structures for biosensing applications, notably creating a plasmonic biosensor for dengue virus detection. His research bridges theoretical modeling with experimental implementation, often involving cleanroom fabrication of plasmonic devices. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) materials, parity-time symmetry in plasmonic structures, advanced biosensing techniques, and integration of plasmonics with silicon photonics. His work demonstrates increasing sophistication in nanofabrication techniques and theoretical modeling, with applications spanning biomedical diagnostics, optical communications, and quantum optics. His scientific recognition includes: NSERC Steacie Fellowship and Discovery Accelerator Premier of Ontario Research Excellence Award (PREA) University of Ottawa Young Researcher of the Year Award URSI Young Scientist Award George S. Glinski Award for Excellence in Research Fellowships in IEEE, OSA, Canadian Academy of Engineering, and Royal Society of Canada Distinguished University Professor title (2018) Professor Berini has supervised over 40 graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, with many completing their theses on plasmonic waveguide devices, biosensors, and related topics. His research is generously supported by major funding agencies including NSERC, CFI, PREA, ORDCF, and OCE, as well as industry partners like Spectalis Corporation which he co-founded as Chief Technology Officer. The Berini Group operates within the Centre for Research in Photonics at the University of Ottawa's Advanced Research Complex (ARC 337), featuring state-of-the-art equipment including tunable lasers, optical spectrum analyzers, near-field scanning optical microscopes, PMD/PDL instrumentation, and thin-film characterization tools. The lab collaborates extensively with the National Research Council, Communications Research Centre Canada, Canadian Photonics Fabrication Center, and international institutions.

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Jari TorniainenView profile

Lecturer

University of QueenslandAustralia

Dr. Jari Torniainen is a Lecturer in the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Queensland. His research focuses on biomedical signal and image processing, biophotonics, and applied spectroscopy, particularly leveraging terahertz imaging, Raman spectroscopy, and nano-FTIR techniques to study tissue integrity in musculoskeletal systems and skin. He holds a PhD in Applied Physics from the University of Eastern Finland (2020) and prior degrees from Aalto University (BSc/MSc, 2015). Research interests include machine learning for biomedical image analysis, non-invasive tissue characterization (e.g., articular cartilage, skin), and real-time physiological signal processing. His work spans applications in orthopedics, dermatology, and precision agriculture, with recent breakthroughs in terahertz imaging for skin pathology detection and plant hydration sensing. Key contributions include open-source tools for near-infrared spectroscopic data preprocessing and collaborations on cultural heritage preservation via terahertz imaging. His publications (31 journal articles, 8 conference papers) reflect interdisciplinary expertise bridging engineering, biology, and clinical medicine.

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Raul de la Fuente CarballoView profile

Professor

University of Santiago de CompostelaSpain

Raul de la Fuente Carballo is a Professor in the Department of Applied Physics at the University of Santiago de Compostela, affiliated with the Faculty of Physics and the Materials Institute (iMATUS). He is part of the Strategic Grouping in Materials (AEMAT) and leads the NaFoMat research group, focusing on nanomaterials, photonics, and soft matter. His academic background includes a doctoral thesis on refractive and diffractive phenomena induced by cross-phase modulation, completed in 1992 under the supervision of Dr. Jesús Liñares Beiras. His research interests span advanced optical phenomena, ionic liquids, and materials science. Key areas include surface plasmon resonance, microcavity physics, refractive index engineering, and optical instrumentation design. He has pioneered work in spectral interferometry for dispersion measurements and contributed to optimizing imaging spectrometers like the Offner and Dyson configurations. De la Fuente Carballo’s publications emphasize experimental and theoretical studies on ionic liquids’ optical properties, nonlinear absorption effects, and novel material characterization techniques. His group has developed innovative methods for measuring refractive index in absorbing media and improving spectrometer calibration accuracy. Despite his prolific output, no specific scientific awards are explicitly listed in the provided materials. He has advised numerous researchers through his affiliation with the Materials Institute, though specific student names are not documented here. His experimental work integrates optical metrology with material synthesis, bridging fundamental physics and applied technologies. Current research directions include thermochromic ionic liquids and high-precision optical component fabrication.

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Tabetha BoyajianView profile

Associate Professor

Louisiana State UniversityUnited States

Tabetha Boyajian is an Associate Professor of Physics & Astronomy at Louisiana State University (LSU), within the College of Science and the Department of Physics & Astronomy. Her research focuses on observational astrophysics, particularly stellar properties and exoplanet detection. Her educational background includes: Ph.D. in Astronomy, Georgia State University, 2009 Dr. Boyajian's research spans fundamental stellar astrophysics , with emphasis on stellar diameters, temperatures, and exoplanet characterization . She employs optical/IR interferometry , stellar spectroscopy , and absolute spectrophotometry to investigate binary systems, stellar evolution, and asteroseismology, contributing significantly to our understanding of stellar parameters. Recent publications (2023-2025) reveal a strategic shift toward lunar-based observatories , with MoonLITE and LUSTER programs pioneering high-resolution interferometry from the Moon. These initiatives target exoplanet atmospheric characterization and precision stellar imaging , leveraging the lunar environment to overcome Earth-based observational limitations. Dr. Boyajian remains actively engaged with the Planet Hunters citizen science project and utilizes the CHARA Array for high-angular-resolution observations, maintaining her leadership in both established and emerging astronomical methodologies.

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Mark SherwinView profile

Professor

University of California , Santa Barbara (UCSB)United States

Mark Sherwin is a Professor of Physics and Director of the Institute for Terahertz Science and Technology at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) . His research focuses on experimental condensed matter physics using terahertz (THz) free-electron lasers (FELs) for quantum control and spectroscopy. He has mentored over 30 graduate students and holds Fellowships from the American Physical Society and the Alfred P. Sloan Memorial Fellowship . Harvard College BA (1981) UC Berkeley PhD (1988) Research Areas : Quantum coherence in spin systems Terahertz-driven electron-hole recollisions High-field electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) Quantum dot and nanostructure dynamics Nonlinear optics in semiconductors Charge-density-wave materials Scientific Awards : Fellow, American Physical Society Alfred P. Sloan Memorial Fellowship Collaborations include NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, small companies for THz modulation, and Prof. Songi Han (UCSB Chemistry/Biochemistry). His group designs custom apparatus with Dr. Nikolay Agladze and develops THz detectors/mixers.

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Ivan KassamakovView profile

Associate Professor

University of HelsinkiFinland

Ivan Kassamakov serves as a Docent (Associate Professor) in the Department of Physics at the University of Helsinki, where he supervises doctoral candidates in both the Materials Research and Nanosciences and Particle Physics and Universe Sciences programmes. His academic profile is anchored in experimental physics with strong institutional ties to the university's research infrastructure. His research centers on advanced optical methodologies, particularly light scattering phenomena and instrumentation development. Key focus areas include particulate media analysis through electromagnetic wave interactions, nanoscale microscopy enhancement, and biomedical applications of optical techniques. This work bridges fundamental physics with translational applications in materials science and medical engineering, evidenced by innovations like the 4 pi Scatterometer for comprehensive scattering measurements and micro-devices for sub-diffraction resolution microscopy. Recent publication trends reveal a strategic expansion into interdisciplinary domains, with growing emphasis on biomedical engineering applications. His 2023-2025 outputs demonstrate convergence of optical physics with pharmaceutical technology (3D-printed pediatric medications) and biomaterials science (bone growth analysis using acoustic microscopy). This evolution reflects a deliberate shift toward solving clinically relevant problems while maintaining core expertise in scattering physics and optical instrumentation. Kassamakov actively participates in major collaborative research initiatives, most notably the ERC Advanced Grant project SAEMPL (Scattering and Absorption of Electromagnetic Waves in Particulate Media), where he contributed to scattering theory development and instrumentation. His supervisory role in two doctoral programmes underscores his commitment to training next-generation researchers in specialized physics domains. Current projects indicate sustained focus on instrumentation development for both fundamental research and medical applications. He maintains strong collaborative networks across physics and biomedical engineering disciplines, particularly evident in co-authored works involving scanning acoustic microscopy, vacuum plasma applications, and 3D pharmaceutical printing. These partnerships span multiple research groups within the university, reflecting his position at interdisciplinary research intersections.

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