Ming Han

Professor Ming Han is a faculty member in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Michigan State University's College of Engineering. He leads the Han Research Group focused on photonic devices and systems, specializing in fiber-optic sensing and actuation technologies. His work bridges fundamental research with real-world applications across multiple industries and scientific domains including energy research, homeland security, industrial process control, environmental monitoring, and biomedical applications.

Dr. Han's research interests center on fiber-optic sensing/actuation devices and systems with particular emphasis on:

• Developing high-speed, high-resolution temperature sensors using silicon-tipped optical fibers with applications in oceanographic research and fusion energy
• Creating multiplexed acoustic emission sensors for structural health monitoring in challenging environments
• Innovating distributed fiber-optic ultrasound generation techniques for non-destructive testing
• Designing ultraminiature fiber-optic microphones for constrained spaces like ear canals
• Engineering fiber-optic environmental sensors with temperature self-compensation capabilities

Analysis of Professor Han's recent publications reveals a strong focus on advancing fiber-optic sensor technologies with increasing sophistication in sensor design, fabrication methods, and signal processing techniques. His work shows a growing emphasis on multi-parameter sensing systems, integration with machine learning for signal analysis, and expanding applications in extreme environments including fusion plasma diagnostics. The research demonstrates consistent innovation in overcoming limitations of traditional sensing approaches through novel optical configurations and materials.

Professor Han has received numerous professional recognitions including:

• Elevation to Fellow of SPIE for achievements in fiber-optic sensor research and development (2020)
• Selection as SPIE Community Champion for outstanding volunteerism (2020)
• Appointment as Associate Editor of Optical Engineering (2018)
• Selection as Topical Editor for Optics Letters (2022)
• Receiving the Edgerton Innovation Award and Faculty Research & Creative Activity Award from UNL College of Engineering (2014)

Dr. Han has successfully mentored numerous graduate students to completion of their Ph.D. degrees, with graduates finding positions at organizations including Intel, Nusenics, and various academic institutions. His research has been significantly supported through collaborations with Naval Research Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Lab, and other institutions working on applications ranging from oceanographic research to magnetic confinement fusion. The Han Research Group actively recruits undergraduate researchers and participates in outreach activities including the MSU Science Festival and Girls Math Science Day events.

The Han Research Group operates state-of-the-art facilities for the design, fabrication, and testing of photonic devices and fiber-optic sensor systems. The group maintains strong collaborations with national laboratories and industry partners, enabling translation of research into practical applications. Current research directions include advancing silicon-tipped fiber-optic sensors for extreme environments and developing AI-enhanced signal processing for structural health monitoring systems with applications in rail inspection and industrial process control.