Michelle Sander

Michelle Sander inspires the academic community to rethink the boundaries of photonics and laser technology. As an Associate Professor at Boston University, she holds appointments in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the Division of Materials Science & Engineering, and the Department of Biomedical Engineering. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges the gap between engineering and biomedical applications, fostering innovation in both fields. Her research is at the forefront of ultrafast, nonlinear, and quantum photonics, with a particular emphasis on femtosecond fiber lasers. These lasers are pivotal in advancing real-time characterization methods, which are crucial for a variety of applications ranging from infrared spectroscopy to photothermal light-matter interactions. Michelle's work in this area is not only groundbreaking but also instrumental in developing new technologies for label-free imaging and super-resolution microscopy. Michelle's contributions to the field have been recognized with several prestigious awards. She is a recipient of the NSF CAREER Award, which highlights her potential as a leader in scientific research and education. Her innovative work has also earned her the College of Engineering Dean's Catalyst Award, acknowledging her role in driving forward the college's research agenda. Additionally, the AFOSR Young Investigator Award and the Optical Society of America Ambassador Award further underscore her impact and leadership in the field of photonics. Her research extends into the infrared and mid-infrared wavelength regimes, exploring optical material interactions that have significant implications for both scientific understanding and practical applications. This work is particularly relevant for infrared neuromodulation, a cutting-edge area that holds promise for novel therapeutic techniques. Michelle's dedication to advancing the field of photonics is matched by her commitment to mentoring the next generation of engineers and scientists. She actively engages with students and colleagues, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages exploration and innovation. Her work not only pushes the boundaries of what is possible with laser technology but also inspires others to pursue new avenues of research and discovery. Through her pioneering research and dedication to education, Michelle Sander continues to shape the future of photonics, making significant contributions that resonate across multiple disciplines. Her work exemplifies the transformative power of interdisciplinary research and its potential to drive technological advancements that benefit society as a whole.