Our Research

We develop novel fiber-based laser systems for the generation of ultrashort light pulses with precisely tailored temporal and spectral characteristics. A particular focus lies on the short-wave and mid-infrared spectral regions, which coincide with the vibrational absorption bands of many biomolecules and therefore offer high potential for biomedical applications.

The vision of the group is to investigate fundamental concepts of nonlinear ultrashort-pulse dynamics as well as the self-organization of coherent structures in laser cavities. Pulse formation is deliberately controlled through intrinsic nonlinear and dispersive effects within the fiber, instead of relying on conventional ultrafast modulators. This allows for the generation of ultrashort pulses in simple compact and reliable laser configurations.

Another key research focus is the exploration of suitable optical materials and fiber geometries with tailored dispersion, rare-earth doping profiles, and power-handling characteristics for extended wavelength operation into the mid-infrared. The group plans to bring a new level of integration of SWIR and mid-IR systems through the in-house development of essential optical components, such as pump combiners, isolators, filters, and couplers, specifically adapted to the thermal and optical properties of SWIR and Mid-IR transparent glasses.

The developed laser sources serve both to study the underlying physical processes and to enable efficient frequency conversion into spectral regions that are specifically matched to molecular vibrational bands. In this way, the junior research group bridges fundamental laser physics and application-oriented photonics.