Institut de Ciències Fotòniques (ICFO)
Experimental Sciences & Mathematics
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Research interests
The quantum nano-optoelectronics group, led by Prof. Koppens, studies the basic science and applications of two-dimensional materials, and in particular the interactions with light at extreme limits. Central in these studies are the rich variety of novel materials that are only one atom thick: graphene and 2d materials. These materials exhibit fascinating properties and in particular, by building stacks of these layered materials, completely new material systems can be created atom-by-atom: atomic lego! By stacking and twisting these materials, completely new optical, electronic and optoelectronic properties can be realized. We apply several unique and novel techniques study physical processes with nano-optoelectronic imaging techniques, operating with infrared and terahertz light.
The group has developed (worldwide unique) low-temperature near-field imaging techniques for terahertz light to probe the electronic response to light with nanometer-scale spatial resolution. One of the more recent objectives is to study the interplay between topological and many-body phenomena of 2d-material heterostructures.
To further boost light-matter interactions at the nanoscale and to enhance light-matter interactions, we are exploring the vast library of polaritonic modes in 2D materials. Confinement of light down to the atomic scale has been demonstrated and paves the way to strong interactions between light and quantum materials, with potential to unveil new states of matter not accessible before. In addition to the new science and physics, the group develops new concepts for photo-detection, imaging systems, optical modulation, nano-scale light processing and switching, as well as flexible and wearable health and fitness devices. We aim to build prototypes of these disruptive technologies, in collaboration with industry.
