Jacob Mackenzie

Jacob Mackenzie is an Associate Professor at the University of Southampton's Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, affiliated with the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) and Zepler Institute. His work spans advanced laser physics and photonics, focusing on efficient solid-state systems via planar waveguide geometries and cryogenic cooling for power scaling.

• Research interests: Waveguide amplifiers, cryogenically cooled lasers, ultra-fast compact lasers
• Key applications: Materials processing, space-borne LIDAR, silicon photonics

Research Themes include innovative gain media engineering, thermal management, and spectroscopic optimization. His group explores non-standard laser transitions to expand accessible wavelengths and power regimes in continuous-wave (CW) and pulsed configurations.

Publications highlight advancements in resonant waveguide gratings, thermal performance metrics, high-repetition rate systems, and optical coating durability. These align with his leadership in high-power laser design and novel manufacturing techniques.

Scientific Awards

• Royal Academy of Engineering Postdoctoral Fellow (2004)
• Senior Member of the Optical Society (OSA)

PhD Supervision includes Isaac Brock, Georgia Mourkioti, and Sahar Alidousti. He also mentors postgraduate students through technical workshops and co-teaches Photonics II (ELEC3217) for undergraduates.

External Roles encompass invited speaking (2020), journal reviewing (2021-2022), and chairing conferences like the 10TH EPS-QEOD EUROPHOTON CONFERENCE (2022).