About the Lab
Christian Koos’s lab conducts research at the forefront of integrated photonics and optoelectronic systems, with a strong focus on enabling ultra-broadband signal generation, processing, and transmission. The central goal of the lab is to push the limits of speed, bandwidth, and energy efficiency in optical and photonic‑electronic technologies.
Key research themes include chip-scale optical frequency combs (microcombs), optical arbitrary waveform generation and measurement, high-speed optical modulators, and photonic‑electronic signal processing. The lab develops heterogeneous and hybrid integration platforms—such as silicon‑organic hybrid, lithium tantalate‑on‑insulator, and silicon nitride photonics—to combine low optical loss with ultrafast electro‑optic response. Advanced techniques like active optical phase stabilization, coherent modulation formats, and digital signal processing are used to realize record‑high symbol rates and data throughputs.
Applications span high-capacity optical communications for data centers and long-haul networks, ultra‑fast analogue‑to‑digital conversion, radar and LiDAR systems, precision measurement, and emerging interfaces between photonics and cryogenic or quantum systems. This research directly addresses societal needs for energy‑efficient digital infrastructure, high‑performance sensing, and scalable information technologies.
The lab is an excellent fit for students with interests in electrical engineering, photonics, physics, or applied materials science. Ideal candidates enjoy experimental and system-oriented research, are motivated to work across disciplines, and are excited about translating fundamental photonic concepts into real‑world high‑speed applications.