Integrated Nonlinear Photonics

The course bridges fundamental physics and applied photonics, combining lectures, interactive simulation exercises, and a final design study. Core topics include nonlinear wave equations, phase matching, second-harmonic and difference-frequency generation, Kerr and four-wave mixing effects, solitons, and emerging applications in telecommunications, spectroscopy, and quantum photonics.

Using the commercial software EMode Photonix, students model realistic guided-wave structures and optimize them for efficient nonlinear interactions. The activity promotes interdisciplinary learning and collaboration between EPFL and Aarhus University. It is open to both local and remote participants, with hybrid delivery enabling broad accessibility.

The structure includes 30 hours of lectures and exercises followed by 60 hours of independent work, corresponding to 3 ECTS. Assessment is based on a five-page design study in which students apply theoretical concepts to an integrated photonic device of their choice. This course is not part of the regular EPFL curriculum; it is a one-off 2026 pilot edition under the Doctoral Program in Photonics (EDPO). It strengthens EPFL's photonics doctoral training portfolio, fosters European collaboration, and equips PhD students with simulation and design skills relevant to both academic and industrial photonics research.