Meet Pavle Smiljanić , a student from the Department of Physical Electronics, who shares insights into his research journey conducted as part of the ORCA-Lab project.
Q: What are your interests or hobbies outside of your studies? How would you describe yourself informally?
A: In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, socializing with friends over a beer, and traveling as much as possible. My favorite hobby is swimming. I’d describe myself as an easygoing person who gets along with everyone. When it’s time to work, I’m fully committed, but I also know how to relax when the time comes.
Q: Can you briefly describe the topic of your research?
A: My research focuses on the realization of an all-optical SR latch circuit based on a dual injection synchronized Fabry-Perot laser diode. The project aimed to theoretically explain, numerically simulate, and experimentally realize this optical digital circuit. While similar concepts have been explored by other research groups, our approach, using dual injection synchronization, marks a first. This method, theoretically promising high operational speeds, has shown dynamic performance rates of up to 1 GHz. The experimental part, which was a key aspect of my work, involved using various optical components such as tunable lasers, fibers, polarizers, fast photodiodes, and optical spectrum analyzers.
Q: How did you discover our lab, and what motivated you to choose this research topic?
A: I first learned about the lab through my professors and assistants. My decision to pursue this particular topic came through discussions with them, paired with my own interests in optical communication.
Q: How critical was the lab work to your final thesis? Can you assess the success of your research? How long did it take to complete?
A: Working in the lab was absolutely essential for my thesis. The experimental realization was the most significant contribution to my project. I consider my thesis to be highly successful, as we achieved all our objectives. The main limitation we encountered was due to the equipment available in the lab, which, though high-quality, constrained the speed of the logic circuit we were testing.
Q: How has working in the lab contributed to your professional development? Has it built on the theoretical foundation you gained during your studies?
A: Having done a three-month experimental internship in Switzerland between my third and fourth year, lab work wasn’t entirely new to me. However, during my final thesis, I encountered many new pieces of equipment for the first time. The most significant contribution to my professional development was learning to operate devices I hadn’t worked with before. Lab work beautifully complemented the theoretical knowledge I acquired during my studies. I’d say that without hands-on experimental work, it would be difficult to fully grasp everything taught in the Physical Electronics program.
Q: Would you recommend working in the Optical Communications Lab to other students? What should they expect?
A: Absolutely! I’d recommend it to any student interested in the optical aspects of physical electronics. Students can expect total dedication from the lab’s permanent members, who will help them realize any project they’re interested in, whether it’s their thesis or something else. They’ll gain knowledge that others might not have the opportunity to acquire. However, students should be prepared to fully commit to their lab work to make the most of this opportunity.
Q: Your message for future students?
A: Try not to burn too much equipment!