We investigate paraxial fluids of light in nonlinear media, particularly using photorefractive crystals, as a versatile platform for analogue quantum simulations. Our research explores phenomena such as superfluidity, turbulence, and topological effects through tailored optical configurations and advanced wavefront shaping. By implementing a digital feedback loop, we are developing the next generation of paraxial fluids of light—extending their effective propagation and enabling the study of richer, time-evolving quantum-like dynamics.
We study Paraxial Fluids of Light using photorefractive media to create versatile optical platforms for analogue quantum simulations. By shaping laser beams in these nonlinear materials, we explore quantum-like phenomena such as superfluidity, turbulence, and instabilities, opening new paths for simulating complex physics with light.
In this line of research, we investigate two-dimensional analogue quantum turbulence using paraxial fluids of light. By carefully controlling laser beams in nonlinear media, we recreate turbulent dynamics similar to those found in quantum fluids, allowing us to observe phenomena like vortex nucleation, energy cascades, and superfluid flow. This approach offers a unique, room-temperature platform to study complex turbulent behavior in a highly controllable and visual way, contributing to a deeper understanding of quantum turbulence and fluid dynamics.
In this line of research, we are developing the next generation of paraxial fluids of light by implementing a digital feedback loop that allows us to overcome the physical length limitations of the nonlinear medium. By measuring the output light field and reinjecting it as a new input, we effectively extend the propagation time of the fluid, enabling us to explore longer and more complex dynamics. This technique opens new possibilities for analogue quantum simulations, allowing us to access intermediate states, study evolving phenomena in greater detail, and push the boundaries of what can be simulated with light.
In this line of research, we explore topological phenomena in paraxial fluids of light by engineering optical configurations that mimic topological phases of matter. Using structured light fields and tailored nonlinear media, we aim to create and control topological excitations such as edge states and vortices with protected dynamics. This approach allows us to study the interplay between topology and nonlinear wave dynamics in a fully optical setting, opening paths toward robust light-based platforms for quantum simulation and information processing.
In our work on Advanced Wavefront Shaping, we develop techniques to precisely control the amplitude and phase of light beams using spatial light modulators and holography. This allows us to manipulate light in complex optical systems for applications such as optical trapping, beam shaping, imaging through scattering media, and enhancing optical computing platforms. By tailoring the wavefront, we unlock new levels of control over light-matter interaction in both linear and nonlinear regimes.
In this part of our research, we use high-performance numerical solvers to emulate new analogue gravity models based on paraxial fluids of light. By simulating the propagation of light in complex nonlinear media, we design and test configurations that mimic curved spacetime and gravitational effects. These simulations guide our experimental work, allowing us to explore novel geometries and dynamic scenarios—such as black hole analogues and cosmological flows—before implementing them in the lab. This approach expands the possibilities of analogue gravity by combining computational modeling with optical experimentation.
Postdoctoral Researcher
Collaborator
PhD Student
Physical Review Letters • 2024
Physical Review A • 2024
New Jornal of Physics • 2022
International Journal of Modern Physics C • 2021
Results in Optics • 2021
Journal of Physics B: Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics • 2020
Physical Review E • 2020
University of Porto • Expected 2027
University of Porto • 2019
University of Porto • 2018
