Design, nonlinear dynamics and applications of multi-wavelength lasers

In this MSCA topic proposal, we offer to the candidate to develop an original project in connection with ongoing research activities focusing on multi-wavelength lasers and their applications taking place in the framework of a Starting Grant from the European Research Council (ERC).

The central idea of ongoing activities is to combine the exploration of the nonlinear dynamics of multi-wavelength lasers with the development of new functionalities or applications. In the past years, our research group has designed different dual-wavelength lasers and successfully implemented them on Photonic ICs compatible with generic foundry processes. They are combined with a short external cavity which can efficiently be used as a phase-controlled optical feedback to balance and stabilize the dual-wavelength emission. It can also be efficiently use to force switching between the two wavelengths.

Following these results, we are now investigating the response of these lasers to a modulated optical injection with a particular focus on the effect of the coupling mechanism between the two emission processes. Based on this study, we aim at exploiting specific dynamical features to achieve all-optical processing functionalities. This development includes the design of custom dedicated multi-wavelength lasers, their on-chip implementation, their characterization and validation of the targeted function. At this stage, we have already identified a few relevant dynamical behavior that we are pushing forward.

In this framework, we believe that many exciting aspects could be the focus of further investigations, including, but not limited to, the novel design and optimization of multi-wavelength lasers structures, investigations of the nonlinear dynamics of the laser triggered by broadband or filtered optical feedback, or innovative applications of multi-wavelength lasers. Each aspect could be individually considered for a MSCA project as well as a smart combination of sub-topics.

Naturally, this short description is only here to steer the discussion as specific topics would naturally be tailored to fit the candidate interest, skills and expertise in order to maximize the chances of success of the project application and the long term career gain for the candidate.

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