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Emerging frontiers in nanophotonics: integrating optical and electron spins in nanophotonic devices

Objective

Light-matter interactions are governed by structural and electronic properties of media and properties of optical fields, such as wavelength, polarisation and intensity. The coupling between optical fields and electronic spin offers unique pathways for controlling information, enabling devices that extend beyond conventional charge-based electronics and have opened new avenues in ultrafast photonics and optoelectronics as well as quantum techLight-matter interactions are governed by structural and electronic properties of media and properties of optical fields, such as wavelength, polarisation and intensity. The coupling between optical fields and electronic spin offers unique pathways for controlling information, enabling devices that extend beyond conventional charge-based electronics and have opened new avenues in ultrafast photonics and optoelectronics as well as quantum technologies, where the manipulation of spin polarization by light or the detection of spin states via optical means is crucial. iSPINN will establish a metamaterial-based platform for controlling interactions between optical and electronic spins in both linear and nonlinear regimes. By exploiting altermagnetic materials which, despite having zero net magnetization, exhibit spin-split electronic band structures, and applying a complex-frequency approach through engineered temporal shaping of spin-carrying optical beams, we aim to enhance electron–photon spin coupling and develop active metamaterial devices important for ultrafast signal processing, spintronics, spinoptics and quantum applications. This synergy underscores the importance of multidisciplinary approaches to harnessing electron-spin–light coupling, enabling tunability, real-time active control, and novel functionalities in nanophotonic and integrated devices. iSPINN will develop the foundations of next-generation spin–photon technologies with real-time active control and consolidate and enhance the European leadership in this field.

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Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) ERC-2025-ADG

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Host institution

KING'S COLLEGE LONDON
Net EU contribution
€ 3 092 061,00
Address
STRAND
WC2R 2LS London
United Kingdom
Region
London Inner London — West Westminster
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost
No data

Beneficiaries (1)