Urs Graf

Dr. Urs Graf is a researcher at the University of Cologne, where he leads the SubMillimeter and Terahertz Receiver Group. His work focuses on developing advanced astronomical instrumentation, particularly heterodyne receivers for submillimeter and terahertz observations. Key projects include CHAI (CCAT-prime Heterodyne Array Instrument), GREAT (German Receiver for Astronomy at Terahertz Frequencies) for SOFIA, and SMART (SubMillimeter Array Receiver for Two Frequencies).

His research interests span terahertz astronomy, quantum cascade lasers, beam measurement techniques, Fourier gratings for LO multiplexing, and compact array receiver modules (CHARM). He specializes in bridging theoretical concepts with practical instrumentation for ground-based and airborne observatories.

Dr. Graf maintains active collaborations with ETH Zurich (QCL development), MPIfR Bonn (SOFIA receivers), SOFIA operations, University of Chile (submillimeter receivers), and Cornell University (CCAT telescope). His 15 most recent publications demonstrate expertise in terahertz receiver design, spectrometer development, quantum cascade laser integration, and astronomical instrumentation.

He leads a research team including Matthias Justen, Sayyid Mahdizadeh, Marc Mertens, Xiaodong Ren, Pablo Tapia, Henning Adams, Ayyaz Mahmood, and Bernhard Schmidt. The group focuses on advancing terahertz technology for astronomical applications.