My research concerns the development of optical techniques based on laser spectroscopy for applications in combustion diagnostics, medical diagnostics and chemical imaging.
Short CV
Research areas
I work at the interface between fundamental development of laser-based spectroscopic techniques and their application in areas such as combustion, energy technology, medical diagnostics and chemical imaging.
In the Applied Optics Group we develop optical methods and sensors for real-time in situ measurements of atoms and molecules in gaseous, liquid and solid samples. Sensitivity, selectivity and accurate quantification capability are important parameters. Techniques include laser absorption, photofragmentation and photothermal spectroscopy using light sources in a wide spectral range, from the ultraviolet to the mid-infrared.
There is an increasing interest in biomass as renewable, CO2-neutral energy source. Rapid in situ diagnostics is needed to better understand, optimize and control processes related to thermochemical conversion (combustion and gasification) of biomass. The focus lies on detection of major species, gas temperature, soot and inorganic compounds, such as potassium.
Breath gas analysis has the potential to revolutionize non-invasive point-of-care and personalized medical diagnostics. Further research is needed to better understand the origin of biomarker molecules and how to reliably quantify them in exhaled breath. The current focus is on small gasotransmitter molecules, such as carbon monoxide, and their role in respiratory diseases.
Chemical imaging is an important tool in life science. We use high brilliance light sources, such as quantum cascade lasers, to improve the imaging speed, while retaining high spectral and spatial resolution. The aim is to decrease sample analysis time and to enable capturing fast biological processes and reactions.
More information
Programme director for Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
Thesis supervision
I am happy to supervise both bachelor's and master's theses in applied laser spectroscopy. A wide selection of topics is available. Feel free to contact me by email or phone, if interested.
Teaching at undergraduate level includes the following courses: