Emanuele Marino

From 13/09/2024 to 13/12/2024

Paired Teams

SELF-ASSEMBLED LASERS MAKE MULTIPLE WAVELENGTH TRANSMISSION VIABLE

University of Pennsylvania, Department of Electrical Systems and Engineering, Kagan Research Group

Dr. Emanuele Marino is a Junior Assistant Professor at the Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Physics and Chemistry, University of Palermo, Italy. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Amsterdam, focusing on nanocrystal assembly using critical Casimir forces. His postdoctoral work with Prof. Christopher B. Murray at the University of Pennsylvania explored the generation of multifunctional structures using nanocrystal assembly. Dr. Marino’s research integrates photonics, self-assembly, and nanomaterials for innovative applications towards lasing and sensing. Dr. Marino has published 33 high-impact publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals totalling more than 1000 citations. In recognition of his work, Dr. Marino has been invited to present his work at several leading international conferences.

This project aims to revolutionize internet data transmission by leveraging self-assembled quantum-dot microlasers, enabling faster and more efficient use of existing fiber-optic infrastructure. Currently, data is transmitted via light pulses of a single wavelength, limiting the maximum transfer speed. By upgrading to the use of multiple wavelengths, we can dramatically increase data throughput without requiring changes in the existing infrastructure. Quantum-dot microlasers show multi-mode lasing features, making them ideal candidates to pursue this goal.

The challenge lies in creating a scalable, cost-effective solution. Traditional frequency-comb lasers achieve multi-wavelength emission but are prohibitively complex and expensive. Instead, quantum-dot microlasers can be manufactured using low-cost, innovative techniques based on bottom-up self-assembly methods, significantly reducing costs and improving optical efficiency.

The purpose of the project is twofold: (1) to address the growing global demand for faster, more reliable internet, particularly in developing regions, and (2) to pioneer cutting-edge technology that aligns with sustainable and accessible innovation, enhancing global connectivity and fostering equitable access to digital resources.

Developing a new material characterized by multiple lasing wavelengths that are tunable independently and simultaneously by external triggers.

The NGI Enrichers Transatlantic Fellowship has significantly advanced the development of self-assembled quantum-dot microlaser technology. This innovation addresses the limitations of current fiber internet by enabling multi-wavelength data transmission, effectively increasing speed without requiring significant infrastructure changes. Over the past weeks, my fellowship has catalyzed critical progress, including successful synthesis of quantum dots and the characterization of their structural and optical properties. Synthesizing high-quality quantum dots is the first crucial step to the development of quantum dot microlasers.

The fellowship has fostered collaboration with leading researchers in the US, notably at the Department of Electrical Systems and Engineering of the University of Pennsylvania, where access to cutting-edge equipment has allowed for the synthesis of high-quality quantum dots with an optical efficiency close to unity, as defined by the ratio of emitted to absorbed photons. These collaborative efforts have strengthened transatlantic scientific ties and laid the foundation for potential joint publications already in preparation.

In my next steps, I will assemble the synthesized quantum dots into microlasers, proceeding with functional testing of their optical properties under external optical bias. These efforts aim to establish and accelerate the commercialization of the technology. We hope to explore collaborations with major tech companies in the future. The project has also spurred career advancement, consolidating my role as a principal investigator while enhancing Europe’s presence in cutting-edge optoelectronics research.

Through this fellowship, the vision of bridging the digital divide by enabling faster, affordable internet access, particularly in underserved regions, is closer to becoming a reality.