Juan Ignacio Garcés Gregorio

Professor Juan Ignacio Garcés Gregorio is a researcher and professor at the University of Zaragoza specializing in Photonics related to optical communications. He has been associated with the Institute of Research in Engineering of Aragon (I3A) since its inception in 2002 and served as its director from 2011 to 2019. His career spans research, teaching in Telecommunications Engineering since 1993, and academic leadership, reflecting his multifaceted engagement with university life.

With a background in Physical Sciences, Professor Garcés has dedicated his career to advancing optical communication technologies, bridging fundamental research and practical applications with strong emphasis on technology transfer to industry. His educational journey began with industry R&D positions before transitioning to academia, where he has maintained connections between theoretical research and real-world implementation.

Professor Garcés' research focuses on addressing the continuous demand for higher bandwidth and transmission rates in modern communication networks. His work spans optical fiber communications, integrated photonic circuits, and the integration of mobile communications with fiber optic systems. He emphasizes developing technologies that can transition from laboratory concepts to commercial applications, maintaining strong industry partnerships throughout his career. His research group operates at the intersection of fundamental science and practical engineering solutions for current communication challenges.

Professor Garcés leads the Photonic Technologies Group (GTF), which focuses on three main research lines: optical fibers and communications (his primary area), multilayer optical coatings developed in collaboration with the Faculty of Science, and industrial optical and optoelectronic sensors and instruments. The group maintains strong industry connections, ensuring research has tangible impact beyond academia.

His most significant contribution is the development of the BOSA (Brillouin Optical Spectrum Analyzer), a high-resolution optical spectrum analyzer developed in collaboration with a regional company that is now marketed globally. Currently, he is working on advancing integrated photonic circuits based on silicon technology, aiming to develop optical receivers that can be manufactured as single integrated circuits rather than assembled components, with the goal of increasing technology readiness levels and commercial viability.

Professor Garcés values the collaborative environment at I3A, where scientific excellence combines with strong technology transfer components. He continues to actively engage in research addressing fundamental challenges in optical communications while ensuring relevance to real-world applications and commercial opportunities, particularly in the context of growing demands driven by 5G/6G networks and data center infrastructure.