ULTRAFAST OPTOELECTRONICS

The course is part of the three-year PhD program in "Engineering Physics and Materials", within the "Information Technologies" curriculum.

1. Knowledge and understanding
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of ultrafast optoelectronics, including the mechanisms of generation, propagation, and detection of ultrashort pulses.
Understand the operation of ultrafast lasers, pulse shaping and compression techniques, and key concepts in nonlinear optics.
Gain familiarity with terahertz (THz) technologies, EUV and soft X-ray sources, and the associated detection methods.
Comprehend the basics of ultrafast magnetism and time-resolved techniques relevant to spintronics and future high-speed technologies.

2. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
Apply theoretical concepts to analyze and interpret physical phenomena related to ultrashort pulse dynamics and light-matter interaction.
Use appropriate models and techniques to design or evaluate systems and experiments involving ultrafast optical technologies.
Assess the performance of optoelectronic devices and sources in practical applications such as spectroscopy, imaging, and high-speed communications.

3. Autonomy of judgment
Critically evaluate the strengths, limitations, and applicability of the optoelectronic technologies studied.
Independently analyze experimental or simulation data, identify sources of error, and reflect on the effectiveness of methods used.
Develop well-informed judgments in innovative or interdisciplinary research and application contexts.

4. Communication skills
Effectively communicate key concepts and technical information related to ultrafast optoelectronics, using appropriate scientific terminology.
Present clear and structured technical reports or presentations to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Collaborate respectfully and constructively with instructors and peers, especially during group activities or lab work.

5. Learning skills
Foster strong independent learning abilities, particularly in exploring emerging optoelectronic technologies.
Organize and prioritize relevant information to analyze complex problems in ultrafast photonics.
Prepare for lifelong learning by developing skills in sourcing and synthesizing technical knowledge for use in advanced scientific and engineering contexts.

Students are expected to have a solid foundation in basic optics and electromagnetism. Familiarity with laser physics, quantum mechanics, and semiconductor physics is highly recommended. Prior exposure to topics such as nonlinear optics and photonics will be beneficial for a deeper understanding of the course materials.

- Ultrafast laser technology: operating principles, laser materials, generation and amplification of ultrashort pulses.
- Ultrashort pulse propagation and detection: nonlinear optics, pulse shaping, compression, and characterization techniques.
- Terahertz (THz) technology: generation, detection, and applications in spectroscopy, imaging, and wireless communications.
- Extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) and soft X-ray sources and detectors: free-electron lasers, high-order harmonic generation, detection techniques.
- Ultrafast magnetism: spin dynamics on ultrafast timescales, time-resolved techniques, and prospects for spintronics.

The lectures will be based on material drawn from various textbooks, including:

1. O. Svelto, "Principles of Lasers", 5th edition, Springer, 2010.
2. W. Koechner, "Solid-State Laser Engineering", Springer, 2006.
3. A. M. Weiner, "Ultrafast Optics", Wiley, 2008.
4. A. E. Siegman, "Lasers", University Science Books, 1986.
5. A. Yariv, "Quantum Electronics", 3rd edition, Wiley, 1989.
6. G. P. Agrawal, "Nonlinear Fiber Optics", 5th edition, Academic Press, 2013.
7. Yun-Shik Lee, "Principles of Terahertz Science and Technology", Springer, 2010.

The final evaluation consists of an oral presentation on a topic covered during the course. Additionally, 2-3 assignments (e.g., solid-state laser design, simulation of pulse propagation, and THz generation/detection, etc.) will contribute up to 3 extra points to the final grade. The final mark is expressed on a 30-point scale, with the possibility of receiving *cum laude* (with honours).

oral

Marks range from 18 to 30, with 18 being the minimum passing grade. A score of 24 indicates an average performance, while 30 represents a perfect result. The highest distinction, "30 e lode" (with honors), is awarded for outstanding excellence.

The course is delivered in person and consists of lectures supported by presentations. The teaching activity includes theoretical explanations of the topics, accompanied by practical examples and in-class discussions. Throughout the course, numerical simulations will also be proposed to deepen the understanding of key phenomena such as laser dynamics, ultrashort pulse propagation, and THz radiation generation/detection.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Climate change and energy" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development