Neil Trappe

Neil Trappe is an Associate Professor and Head of the Experimental Physics Department at Maynooth University. His research focuses on far-infrared space optics, cosmic microwave background (CMB) experiments, and advanced instrumentation for astrophysical observations. He holds a B.Sc. in Applied Physics from the University of Limerick (1998) and a Ph.D. in long-wavelength optical analysis techniques from NUI Maynooth (2002). Trappe has led projects funded by the European Space Agency (ESA), including the development of high-efficiency horn antennas and focal plane pixel architectures for future CMB missions. His work also includes collaborations on the Herschel Space Observatory’s HIFI instrument and the ALMA telescope.

Research Interests: Far-infrared astronomy, CMB polarization, space optics instrumentation, and detector design. Key projects include the LiteBIRD satellite mission for CMB studies and the CORE survey. His team develops advanced simulation tools for multimode waveguides and focal plane systems, addressing technical challenges for next-generation space observatories.

Notable Grants: ESA contracts 4000105704/12/NL/Cbi (High Efficiency Horn Antennas) and ITT 1-7136/12/NL/MH (Focal Plane Array Coupling Concepts). Current work includes ESA-funded technical management for cosmic microwave background experiments and submillimeter astronomy.

Publications span detector optimization, waveguide analysis, and cosmological instrumentation, with contributions to journals like Journal of Low Temperature Physics and Astronomy and Astrophysics. His research emphasizes precise optical characterization and innovative solutions for multimode systems, advancing technologies for future space missions.