Current Research
Spectrum Lab is currently pursuing research in multiple interdisciplinary areas. Please explore each topic page below to learn more about our research.
Hybrid Optical Communications
Optical communication systems can be implemented in a variety of modalities and geometries (airborne, frees-pace, hybrid fiber networks, holographic techniques). Check out what Spectrum Lab is currently working on.
Rare Earth Ion Quantum Devices
We investigate rare-earth ion doped crystals for extreme bandwidth optical signal processing, and highly multimodal quantum memories.
Quantum Networking Hardware
The quantum internet requires unique devices to ensure that entaglement is preserved when brought out of the lab and into the real world. We develop the hardware to make that happen.
Micro-Optics Fabrication
We specialize in the fabrication of micro and nano optics using the UpNano NanoOne 1000 3D printer. Using this two photon polymerization technique, optics such as lenses, phase plates, gratings, waveguides and more can be 3D printed on the micro scale.
Lidar & 3D Imaging
We specialize in using coherent lidar to create 3D representations of scenes. This technique can be extended to an imaging technique called range-selective digital holography.
Millimeter Wave Communications
The Millimeter-Wave Communication Group develops mmWave systems for high-bandwidth communication, localization, and sensing. The group explores techniques including time-difference-of-arrival, ranging, and lidar-like sensing to extract both information and spatial awareness from high-frequency signals.
Integrated Photonics Testing
Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) are optical systems on silicon chips, analagous to electrical circuits. In this group, we test these PICs using an automated wafer test station and singulated die test station.
Opto-Mechanical Designs
The Opto-Mechanical Group designs, fabricates, and integrates custom hardware and experimental systems that enable research across the lab. From precision optical mounts and rapidly prototyped components to compact airborne payloads and large-scale test structures, we provide the mechanical engineering, fabrication, and hands-on problem solving needed to turn experimental ideas into working hardware.
