The research fields in the Laboratory of Optics and Spectroscopy are basic and applied research in optics and spectroscopy (prof. Jyrki Kauppinen, Director of the Laboratory) and basic research in quantum optics (prof. Kalle-Antti Suominen).

Spectroscopy

The strongest field is Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FTS). The current research efforts include development and construction of new interferometers, development of mathematical methods for signal processing and calculation of spectra, and investigation of new applications for FTS.

The laboratory works in close cooperation with industry. The portable FT-IR gas analyzer GASMET, developed in the laboratory, is in commercial production.

Other research interests of the laboratory include optical instrumentation, solar energy, and alternative forms of energy.

Several inventions of the laboratory have been patented. In 1992, Prof. Kauppinen was awarded the Bomem-Michelson award.

The book "Fourier Transforms in Spectroscopy" has been published recently.

Quantum Optics

Research in quantum optics concentrates on atom optics, especially on the physics of laser cooling and Bose-Einstein condensation. Another research topic is quantum information. More information can be obtained from the web pages of the Quantum Optics Group.

In 2001 the Quantum Optics Group leader, prof. Kalle-Antti Suominen was awarded the Magnus Ehrnrooth prize.

Together with Stig Stenholm he has published in 2005 the book "Quantum Approach to Informatics"