The great potential of small dimensions

Your research on nanophotonic principles can be applied in various fields including biomaterials. Could some of your findings be used in the current coronavirus crisis?

One of our research activities focuses on the development of integrated nanophotonic platforms, the so-called ‘lab-on-a-chip’. These are capable to detect specific biomarkers from a single drop of blood and could also be used outside of the research laboratory, for example at the family doctor. While our efforts have so far focused on other applications like early cancer detection, our platforms could potentially be useful in the coronavirus crisis, especially through rapid screening of the population.

In which other fields are nanophotonics being used? 

Nanophotonics is a fascinating field! When matter is reduced to nanometric dimensions, its response to light features new properties that do not exist at a larger scale. These unique optical properties enable us to control light-matter interaction, beyond what conventional optics can do.

Another unique feature of nanophotonics is its transversality. In our research, we use it as an enabling tool to address challenges in physics but also in other disciplines including biotechnology, inertial sensing and additive manufacturing. This makes our research highly interdisciplinary and open towards new applications.

You’ve done research in Barcelona for many years, and you call yourself an adoptive Catalan. Why did you decide to join ETH Zurich?

Of course, the international prestige of ETH Zurich has been an important factor. But ultimately, my decision to join ETH was motivated by its unique academic environment, combining research excellence and outstanding students with dynamic innovation in close exchange with the industry. I am also very excited about discovering the Swiss culture and society.

Will you continue your research from the Institute of Photonic Sciences at D-MAVT, or are you planning on taking up new topics?

While we plan to maintain a significant part of the research lines from our past group, we will also take advantage of this new interdisciplinary environment to initiate novel collaborative projects with my outstanding ETH colleagues at D-MAVT and beyond. For instance, we are very interested in creating new bridges with the very active biotechnology community at ETH, which extends through several departments.

Why did you originally choose to go into physics?

I guess my choice to go into physics was triggered by my natural curiosity to understand things around me. But doing research also satisfies my need to cultivate my creativity. In that sense, I like to draw a parallel between science and art, as researchers often need to find creative solutions to problems they face in the lab.

What can students expect from you as a researcher, lecturer and mentor?

Through the years, I have learnt the importance of considering the individuality of each student. In my interaction with them, I aim at being empathetic and provide the best possible environment for them to overcome their own limits and develop as students, researchers and also as individuals.

Which personal and professional qualities helped you in your scientific career, and what advice would you give to students who want to pursue a similar path?

My advice for students are to dream big and work very hard, but also make sure to always have some fun, even when facing difficulties.