Dr. Rajesh Bera is a Research Fellow at ICFO's Functional Optoelectronic Nanomaterials group specializing in quantum-confined nanostructures. His research examines ultrafast carrier dynamics, excitonic properties, and optoelectronic applications of nanomaterials including quantum dots, nanoplatelets, and hybrid nanostructures. Current investigations focus on intraband transitions in doped nanocrystals, orientation-dependent excitonic behavior in 2D materials, and charge transfer mechanisms in heterostructure devices. Work bridges fundamental photophysics with applications in photodetection, sensing, and energy conversion. Recent publications demonstrate expertise in time-resolved spectroscopy of quantum materials, nanomaterial synthesis via colloidal chemistry, and rational design of optoelectronic devices. Continually develops novel characterization methods to probe ultrafast processes at nanoscale interfaces.
Prof. Maciej Lewenstein is a Group Leader and ICREA Professor at the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO), Spain. He leads the Quantum Optics Theory group, focusing on theoretical and computational studies of quantum many-body systems, topological phases, and nonlinear optics. He holds a Dr.rer.nat. in Physics from the University of Essen, Germany. His research interests include quantum simulations, high-harmonic generation, Bose-Einstein condensation, and quantum information processing. He has pioneered work on topological quantum thermometry and ultrafast phase transitions in materials like vanadium dioxide. His group actively explores the intersection of quantum optics with condensed matter physics and quantum computing. Recent articles highlight advancements in tensor network approaches for topological phases, quantum algorithms for many-body systems, and the application of sonification to quantum entanglement dynamics. He has received a prestigious ERC Advanced Grant and the ICREA Professorship, recognizing his contributions to quantum science. Prof. Lewenstein advises over a dozen PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, fostering a dynamic research environment at ICFO. His grants include ERC and ICREA funding, supporting projects on quantum simulations and nonlinear optical phenomena. The Quantum Optics Theory group collaborates internationally, with expertise in light-matter interactions, quantum resource theory, and quantum many-body localization. Their lab develops novel methods for probing quantum systems using high-harmonic spectroscopy and quantum trajectory simulations.
Jordi Perelló Muntan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Architecture at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), Barcelona, Spain, where he is also affiliated with the Escola Tècnica Superior d'Enginyeria de Telecomunicació de Barcelona (ETSETB). He is a member of the Broadband Communications Systems and Architectures (CBA) and IDEAI-UPC research groups, focusing on advanced optical and future internet networking technologies. Research Interests: His research spans telecommunications networks, optical fiber and optical networking, resource optimization, network architectures, and the Future Internet. He investigates performance optimization in 5G transport networks, Spatial Division Multiplexing (SDM), Recursive Inter-Network Architecture (RINA), elastic optical networks, and cognitive networking. His work integrates SDN, network virtualization, and green networking principles for scalable and efficient infrastructures. Publication Trends: His recent publications focus on probabilistic constellation shaping in multicore fiber networks, cognitive strategies for optical margin reduction, RINA-based QoS assurance, and migration planning toward spectrally-spatially flexible optical networks. These reflect a strong trend toward intelligent, adaptive, and energy-efficient network design for future communication systems. Scientific Awards: Co-recipient of the 2020 Fabio Neri Best Paper Award Runner-up (Elsevier Journal of Optical Switching and Networking) Co-recipient of the ONDM 2021 Best Paper Award Co-recipient of the 2019 IEEE Communications Society Charles Kao Award Co-recipient of the ONDM 2012 Best Student Paper Award Advising and Grants: He has advised multiple PhD students on topics including RINA, optical network planning, and virtual provisioning. He has led or participated in major European (H2020, FP7) and national (PID, TEC) research projects such as SLICENET, PRISTINE, TRAINER, and ALLIANCE, focusing on 5G, RINA, and sustainable network infrastructures. Labs and Teams: He is an active member of the CBA research group at UPC, contributing to experimental and theoretical advancements in optical and programmable networks. His team collaborates internationally on testbed development and standardization efforts in next-generation networking.
Dr. Guillem Müller Rigat is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO), working in the Quantum Optics Theory research group. He holds a PhD in Photonics from the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (Spain). His research focuses on quantum information theory and quantum optics, with a particular emphasis on entanglement, Bell inequalities, and many-body quantum systems. He explores topics such as quantum resource certification, symmetry in quantum states, and applications of machine learning in quantum tomography. Müller Rigat’s work bridges fundamental quantum theory and experimental feasibility, addressing challenges in quantum metrology, nonlocality, and chaos. His recent studies include developing methods to infer quantum correlations from observable data and enhancing protocols for entanglement detection in complex systems. He contributes to advancing theoretical frameworks for certifying quantum systems with minimal experimental resources. He is affiliated with ICFO’s Quantum Optics Theory group, where he collaborates on projects involving Bell inequalities, spin-nematic squeezing, and quantum Fisher information. Despite his postdoctoral focus, he actively publishes in high-impact journals, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches combining quantum foundations and applied quantum technologies.
Gonzalo Manzano Paule is a Ramón y Cajal tenure-track researcher at IFISC (Instituto de Física Interdisciplinar y Sistemas Complejos), a joint research institute of CSIC (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas) and UIB (University of the Balearic Islands), where he has been working since January 2023. He previously held a Juan de la Cierva Incorporation fellowship (2021-2023), was an ESQ Postdoc at IQOQI Vienna (2020-2021), and a Postdoc at ICTP Trieste (2018-2020) funded by Scuola Normale Superiore. He obtained his PhD in Physics from Universidad Complutense de Madrid in July 2017, followed by a short Postdoc at IFISC (2017-2018). His research interests focus on quantum and stochastic thermodynamics, open quantum systems, information theory, and the foundations of nonequilibrium statistical physics and quantum mechanics. He is particularly interested in applying concepts from nonequilibrium thermodynamics to understand classical and quantum complex systems. While his work is primarily theoretical, he actively seeks collaborations with experimentalists. His research has been featured in popular science journals including Physics, Quanta Magazine, and Diario de Mallorca. He has also collaborated with artist Evarist Torres to merge art and science and has written a popular science article for Investigación y Ciencia (Scientific American). Manzano Paule's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on quantum thermodynamics, fluctuation theorems, and quantum information processing. His work spans theoretical foundations of quantum thermodynamics to applications in quantum heat engines and molecular motors. A notable pattern in his research is the exploration of how quantum effects can enhance thermodynamic processes and the relationship between information theory and thermodynamics. His scientific achievements have been recognized through prestigious fellowships including the Ramón y Cajal program, Juan de la Cierva Incorporation fellowship, and ESQ Postdoc fellowship. His work has also garnered attention in popular science media, indicating its broader impact beyond academic circles. As an educator, Manzano Paule supervises Master's students and teaches advanced courses including Open Quantum Systems for the Master's Degree in Advanced Physics and Applied Mathematics and the Master's Degree in Physics of Complex Systems. His teaching portfolio also includes Quantum Collective Phenomena, Quantum and Nonlinear Optics, Thermodynamics, and Atomic and Molecular Physics. He currently leads the research project 'QTD-InFlexity Quantum thermodynamics: information, fluctuations and complexity' and participates in the 'CoQuSy Complex Quantum Systems' project. He is also part of the María de Maeztu Unit of Excellence at IFISC, which has received continuous funding since 2008.
LUIS GONZALEZ GUERRERO is an Assistant Professor at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, specializing in photonics and telecommunications. His research focuses on integrated photonic circuits for millimeter-wave and terahertz (THz) communication systems, with applications in satellite payloads, wireless fronthaul/backhaul, and space technology. He leads projects in hybrid integrated optical platforms (e.g., InP-Si3N4), laser stability, and high-frequency signal generation. His work bridges photonics with electrical engineering to enable next-generation wireless systems. Research Interests: Dr. Gonzalez Guerrero’s expertise spans integrated photonics, microwave photonics, THz communication links, satellite communication systems, and photonic signal generation. His innovations include low-noise radiometers, optical injection locking for stable local oscillators, and high-purity mm-wave/THz signal transmission. His contributions address challenges in frequency stability, bandwidth efficiency, and phase noise mitigation in high-frequency systems. Publications: His recent work emphasizes hybrid photonic platforms, sub-THz wireless bridges, and phase noise mitigation techniques. Articles highlight advancements in optical signal processing, laser source integration, and applications in space communication. His research trends reflect a strong focus on translating laboratory prototypes into deployable systems for satellite and terrestrial networks. Affiliations: He is affiliated with the Grupo Universitario de Tecnologías de Identificación (GUTI), a research group at UC3M. His work is supported by grants focused on photonic integrated circuits and space communication technologies. He collaborates internationally on projects involving multicore fiber systems, coherent THz transmitters, and optical frequency comb applications.
Dr. Jose Manuel Sánchez Peña is a Full Professor at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M), affiliated with the Grupo Universitario de Tecnologías de Identificación (GUTI). His research focuses on precision agriculture technologies, optoelectronics, and neuroscientific interfaces. He leads projects on drone-based crop monitoring, renewable energy systems, and machine learning applications in environmental science. Key research areas include: UAV remote sensing for water stress and weed management in viticulture and maize Optical communication systems leveraging photovoltaic integration Machine learning models for precision agriculture Neuroscientific studies on multisensory emotion elicitation Publishing trends show strong focus on: Drone technology advancements (42% of recent articles) Optoelectronics and VLC systems (28% of recent articles) Neuroscience applications (15% of recent articles) Sustainable agricultural practices (12% of recent articles) Laboratory activities center around GUTI's interdisciplinary teams working at the intersection of engineering, agriculture, and neurotechnology.
Joel Villatoro is an Ikerbasque Research Professor at the Faculty of Engineering, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), specializing in applied photonics and optical fiber sensor technology. He holds M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in Optics from the National Institute for Astrophysics, Optics, and Electronics (Mexico, 1995 and 1999). His research focuses on interferometric sensors, biomedical applications, and advanced optical fiber technologies, with notable contributions to multicore and photonic-crystal fiber sensors. He has held positions at institutions such as ICFO (Spain), Aston Institute (UK), and Case Western Reserve University (USA). Education: M.Sc. in Optics, National Institute for Astrophysics, Optics, and Electronics, Mexico (1995) Ph.D. in Optics, National Institute for Astrophysics, Optics, and Electronics, Mexico (1999) Research Interests: Interferometric sensors, real-world environmental monitoring, micro/nano-biosensors, and fiber-optic sensor integration into industrial systems. His work emphasizes practical applications in aerospace, healthcare, and environmental sectors. Key Contributions: Over 130 publications, 6 patents, and 2,500+ citations. His research bridges fundamental photonics with industrial applications, including sensor fabrication, multiparameter sensing, and additive manufacturing of embedded sensors. Labs/Teams: Leads the Applied Photonics Group at UPV/EHU, focusing on prototyping and real-world sensor deployment.
The Atomic Quantum Optics Group at ICFO, Barcelona , led by Morgan W. Mitchell , investigates quantum phenomena at the interface of light and matter. The group develops advanced sensing technologies with applications in biomedicine, space science, and fundamental physics. Research focuses on ultra-cold atoms, high-coherence photons, and entanglement, aiming to understand and utilize atomic coherence for quantum technologies. Their work includes pushing sensitivity limits in magnetic field detection, quantum thermometry, and miniaturized quantum devices. Recent publications highlight advancements in cavity-enhanced spin detection , anomalous noise in SERF magnetometry , and spread-spectrum magnetic sensing . These studies span quantum optics, atomic physics, and applied quantum technologies. Scientific awards include mentoring students like Joanna Zielinska and Carlos Abellan , who won the UPC Thesis Prize. The group actively trains PhD students, postdocs, and visiting researchers in quantum technologies.
Prof. Valerio Pruneri is an ICREA Professor and Group Leader at the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO), holding the Corning Inc. Chair in Optoelectronics. He leads a research group focused on quantum optics, nanophotonics, and biomedical imaging. His academic background includes a PhD in Laser Physics from the University of Southampton (UK). Research interests span quantum communication technologies, plasmonic sensors, and nanomaterials for optical applications. Recent advancements include work on quantum key distribution systems, graphene-based devices, and super-sensitive phase imaging techniques. Articles highlight innovations in quantum-enhanced imaging, integrated photonic circuits, and hyperbolic metamaterials. His team collaborates on EU projects like NANO-GLASS ITN and FLIGHT, with a strong emphasis on translational research. Over 50 students and researchers are advised, many funded by national and international grants (e.g., Agencia Estatal de Investigación, CELLEX Foundation). Key lab facilities include state-of-the-art cleanrooms and optical characterization tools.
Dr. Stefano Signorini is a Postdoctoral Researcher and European Commission Fellow at the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO), specializing in quantum photonics and nonlinear optics. His research focuses on developing advanced photonic technologies using silicon-based platforms, particularly in the areas of heralded single-photon sources and mid-infrared quantum applications. He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Trento (Italy). Education: PhD in Physics, University of Trento, Italy His research interests include silicon photonics, quantum communication, and nonlinear optical phenomena. He has contributed to breakthroughs in integrated quantum photonic devices and mid-infrared spectroscopy. His work emphasizes practical applications of quantum technologies in sensing, cryptography, and telecommunications. Awards: European Commission Fellow Signorini’s research group at ICFO explores optoelectronics and quantum photonics, aiming to bridge fundamental science with technological innovation. His projects involve collaborations on integrated photonics platforms and novel material synthesis for enhanced optical functionalities.
Sergi Abadal Cavalle is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Computer Architecture at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), affiliated with the Escola Tècnica Superior d'Enginyeria de Telecomunicació de Barcelona (ETSETB). He leads a dynamic research group focused on revolutionary computing architectures through wireless chip-scale networks and quantum interconnects. His work is supported by prestigious grants including an ERC Starting Grant and an ERC Proof of Concept Grant. Education: PhD in Computer Architecture, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (2016) MSc in Telecommunication Engineering, UPC (2011) BSc in Telecommunication Engineering, UPC (2010) Sergi's research focuses on overcoming the limitations of traditional wired interconnects in computing systems by pioneering wireless communication at the chip and package level. His work spans terahertz communications, graphene-based antennas, reconfigurable metasurfaces, and quantum-coherent networks. He has led major EU projects such as WINC, EWiC, QUADRATURE, and WiPLASH, aiming to revolutionize classical and quantum computing architectures. His research integrates electromagnetics, materials science, and computer architecture to enable ultra-fast, scalable, and energy-efficient systems. His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward integrating wireless technologies within computing systems, particularly using novel materials like graphene and software-defined metasurfaces. The articles highlight advancements in on-chip wireless communication, channel modeling, and the application of these technologies in 6G and quantum computing. His work bridges theoretical modeling with experimental validation and practical emulation. Scientific Awards: ERC Starting Grant (2022) ERC Proof of Concept Grant (2024) ACM NanoCom Outstanding Milestone Award (2022) NanoComNet Young Investigator Award (2019) UPC Outstanding Thesis Award (2016) IN-NOVA Award to Best Master Thesis (2021) IBM Award to Best Academic Record (2021) Medal from Real Academia de la Ingeniería (2024) IEEE Senior Member (2025) Sergi actively mentors a large group of PhD and Master's students, many of whom have received awards for their thesis work. He leads the N3Cat research group and collaborates with institutions such as IBM Research, NEC Labs Europe, RWTH Aachen, EPFL, University of Nottingham, and Intel Labs. His lab is at the forefront of experimental validation of wireless interconnects and quantum architectures, with ongoing projects focusing on emulation and commercialization of chiplet communication technologies.
Prof. Juan P. Torres is a Professor at ICFO (Institut de Ciències Fotòniques) leading the Quantum Engineering of Light research group. His work focuses on generating and tailoring novel forms of classical and quantum light for fundamental quantum theory exploration and applications in secure communications, high-resolution imaging, and precision probing. His research centers on quantum optics and photonics with specialized expertise in spatial and frequency engineering of photons. He pioneers techniques for tailoring spatial entanglement through spontaneous parametric down-conversion schemes, enabling the generation of qudits with on-demand properties. His group actively develops quantum imaging methods using undetected light and explores high-dimensional quantum information processing. Analysis of his recent publications reveals dominant trends in quantum imaging with undetected photons, high-dimensional quantum teleportation, and decoherence-assisted quantum key distribution. His work consistently bridges theoretical quantum mechanics with practical implementations in optical coherence tomography and quantum communication protocols, emphasizing spatial mode manipulation. Prof. Torres maintains active international collaborations with leading researchers including Prof. Bahaa Saleh (CREOL), Prof. Malvin Teich (Boston University), Dr. Fabio Sciarrino (University of Rome), Prof. J. H. Eberly (University of Rochester), and Dr. Alfred U'Ren (UNAM). His laboratory features two fully equipped optical facilities with four optical tables, multiple laser systems across wavelengths, single-photon detectors, nonlinear crystals, and advanced spectroscopy equipment for quantum light generation and characterization.
Prof. Adrian Bachtold is a Professor at the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO), leading the Quantum NanoElectronics and NanoMechanics group. His research focuses on quantum phenomena in nanoscale systems, including twisted bilayer graphene, carbon nanotubes, and nanomechanical resonators. He explores quantum transport, mechanical resonators with ultra-long lifetimes, and applications in quantum simulation and quantum bits. Research Interests: Quantum electrical, mechanical, and optical properties of nanodevices Mesoscopic investigation of quantum electron transport Electromechanical resonators for quantum sensing Development of mechanical qubits His work has led to significant advancements, such as nonlinear nanomechanical resonators approaching the quantum ground state and ultra-broadband photodetection using twisted graphene. He has secured funding through projects like MechQSim (EU), BBVA Fundamentos Grant (2024), and grants from the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation. Awards: BBVA Fundamentos Grant (2024) Fundació CELLEX Barcelona Grant He actively mentors students and researchers at all levels (Master’s, PhD, Postdoc) and is involved in recruiting talent for projects in quantum electromechanics and matter physics. His group collaborates on initiatives like ICFO's QTWIST program, advancing the frontiers of quantum nanotechnology.
Prof. Daniel Ortega Ponce is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Cádiz's Condensed Matter Physics Department. He holds a PhD in Condensed Matter Physics from the University of Cádiz (2007) and has held positions including Ramón y Cajal Researcher (2020-2024), Marie Curie Fellow at University College London (2009-2012), and leadership roles in institutions like IMDEA Nanoscience and INiBICA. His research focuses on magnetic nanoparticles for biomedical applications, including hyperthermia, tissue engineering, and nanomedicine. Education: BSc in Chemistry of Materials (University of Cádiz, 2001) MSc in Industrial Process Engineering (2003) PhD in Condensed Matter Physics (2007) Research interests span nanomaterials for hyperthermia, magnetic nanoparticle synthesis, and in vivo thermal diagnostics. He leads the Nanoteranostics group at INiBICA and coordinates national and European networks in nanomedicine. Awards include EPSRC Peer Review College membership and Marie Curie fellowships. His work bridges physics, materials science, and clinical translation, with over 60 publications and 15 invited conference talks. Scientific awards include: Ramón y Cajal Researcher (2020-2024) EPSRC Peer Review College Member COST Action Coordinator (RADIOMAG, 2014-2018) Grants and collaborations involve leadership in the RedLab In Silico Electromagnetic Testing Lab and advisory roles for EU and international funding bodies. His research emphasizes computational modeling (in silico) for hyperthermia safety and efficacy, alongside experimental advancements in nanoparticle design.
