ABSTRACT
Photonics refers to the science and technology behind the generation and control of light. It fundamentally underpins our modern society, being key enabler of technologies from the internet to advanced manufacturing of vehicles and consumer electronics. Photonics has also played (and continues to play) a key role in expanding human knowledge: more than 30 Nobel prizes in physics and chemistry trace their origins to photonics.
In this talk, Miro traces his journey in the world of nonlinear photonics – a field that explores and leverages the interactions between intense laser light and matter. He describes how the seemingly unrelated four words in the talk's title come together to form a cohesive narrative of his research. From exploring the fundamental physics of light propagation in optical fibres to engineering next-generation laser sources, Miro reflects on the scientific insights and technological innovations that have shaped his path.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Miro was born, bred, and educated in Finland. He obtained his doctoral degree from Tampere University of Technology (now Tampere University) in 2012 and immediately moved to the other side of the world to join Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, as a research fellow. During the last decade and a bit, he has steadily climbed the academic ladder at the University, becoming full professor in 2025.
Miro’s research revolves around nonlinear photonics and laser physics. He is particularly interested in unravelling the complex physics that underpin interactions between strong laser light and matter, and in using the knowledge gained to develop new and improved technological applications. Miro’s research has been recognized by several awards, including the 2019 New Zealand Prime Minister’s MacDiarmid Emerging Scientist Prize and the 2024 NZAS Hill Tinsley medal.
Miro doesn’t like to work alone. He has always, and will always, attribute his research successes to the fantastic students, research fellows, and collaborators he has had the privilege to work with.
