{"id":14676,"date":"2026-11-03T11:58:44","date_gmt":"2026-11-03T10:58:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/?p=14676"},"modified":"2026-11-03T13:19:00","modified_gmt":"2026-11-03T12:19:00","slug":"estudiar-lo-invisible-la-fisica-que-impulsa-la-investigacion-en-la-ull","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/2026\/11\/03\/estudiar-lo-invisible-la-fisica-que-impulsa-la-investigacion-en-la-ull\/","title":{"rendered":"Studying the invisible"},"content":{"rendered":"

With the purpose of bringing together the research staff of the University of La Laguna who work in common areas linked to Atomic and Molecular Physics, Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics, the University Institute of Advanced Studies in Atomic, Molecular and Photonic Physics was created in 2010 (IUdEA<\/a>\u201cThe institute is also formed with the idea of serving as an instrument to help disseminate our work,\u201d says its director., Fernando Delgado<\/a>, researcher at the Department of Physics of the University of La Laguna.<\/p>\n

The IUdEA's mission is to promote scientific research and postgraduate training of excellence in the fields of Applied, Atomic, Molecular, and Photonic Physics, fostering the generation of innovative knowledge, technological development, and knowledge transfer. It also seeks to encourage interdisciplinary and international collaboration and contribute to the advancement of strategic areas such as nanotechnology, applied photonics, functional materials, and quantum technologies.<\/p>\n

Delgado also explains that the institutes seek to facilitate research work, either by reducing the bureaucratic burden as much as possible or by organizing events, such as seminars that bring together researchers of interest to the institute's members and that can foster the creation of working networks or collaborations with top-level foreign research groups.<\/p>\n

\"Fernando<\/a>

Fernando Delgado,<\/p><\/div>\n

Quantum technologies, nanomaterials and biomedical applications<\/strong><\/p>\n

The IUdEA develops several main lines of research. One of them is related to quantum technologies and their applications. \u201cWe have research groups working in the field of quantum systems,\u201d says Delgado. \u201cAny physical system is always interacting with its environment, and the same is true for microscopic systems. But, in addition, these systems are much more sensitive, so we need to study how the interaction with the environment modifies the properties and behavior of these systems,\u201d he points out.<\/p>\n

On the other hand, from a more applied perspective, the institute has groups that focus their work on complex atomic and molecular systems, whether of biological or medical interest, such as viruses, or of astrophysical interest. The institute also develops research lines related to spectroscopy, specializing in the optical range. \u201cSeveral groups, both experimental and theoretical, are working with high-pressure media, as well as methods for detecting, for example, pressure in different environments or developing temperature sensors from optical measurements,\u201d explains the director.<\/p>\n

Research is also being conducted on nanomaterials and engineered materials, such as hybrid materials, which may have biomedical applications. \u201cThey can be used to detect the presence of certain substances in the bloodstream or to transport drugs to their target organs,\u201d Delgado explains. In addition, the institute is developing other lines of research related to quantum computing and control, applied mathematics, dynamical systems and chaos theory, and molecular simulation. It is also working in areas such as microresonators and optomechanics, nanostructuring of materials using femtosecond lasers, and integrated photonics.<\/p>\n

Currently, the research staff that make up the IUdEA lead research projects endowed with competitive funding from calls from the Ministry of Science, Research and Universities and the Government of the Canary Islands, as well as from European programs for the promotion of research such as Horizon Europe.<\/p>\n

\"V\u00edctor<\/a>

Victor Lavin.<\/p><\/div>\n

Photonic technology, optical sensors and new materials<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Laser Spectroscopy and High Pressures (GESLAP) research group focuses on characterizing and studying the optical and structural properties of advanced materials, especially those doped with rare-earth ions, with applications in photonics, optoelectronics, and optical sensors. The group is led by a professor of Applied Physics. Victor Lavin Della Ventura<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Among its main lines of research are the spectroscopy of luminescent materials, the study of glass ceramics and nanostructures subjected to extreme pressure and temperature conditions, and the upconversion processes of luminescence (upconversion<\/em>and the development of optical sensors for measuring these variables. This research contributes to the advancement of knowledge about functional materials with potential applications in fields such as photonics, photovoltaics, and biomedicine.<\/p>\n

Among the current research projects, the one most notable is \u201cOptically active functional materials for sensor applications under extreme conditions. Correlation between structural and optical properties,\u201d led by [name of lead researcher]. Ulises Ruym\u00e1n Rodr\u00edguez Mendoza<\/a>. This project focuses on the design of optical sensors based on luminescent materials that respond to pressure and temperature, with applications in diverse environments, especially in industrial process control. According to Rodr\u00edguez, controlling these variables allows for a better understanding of the behavior of materials under different conditions and facilitates the synthesis of materials with predefined properties.<\/p>\n

The Optical Materials and Devices Group (GMDP) conducts research related to the fabrication and characterization of optical materials and devices with applications such as biochemical and liquid property sensors, improved solar cell efficiency, and novel glass- and polymer-based lasers. It is led by a professor of Applied Physics. Fernando Lahoz Zamarro<\/a> And among the lines of research developed within this team are the study of random lasing<\/em> applied to biomedical and environmental sensors, spectroscopic characterization of thin films, molecular fluorescence and luminescent materials for bioimaging and the development of optical devices based on advanced materials.<\/p>\n

Among the projects currently led by this group, the one that stands out is \u201cBiophysics of BK channels in subcellular macrocomplexes and nanodomains of Ca2+: implications in neuroplasticity and disease\u201d, coordinated by the researcher and member of GMDP Teresa Gir\u00e1ldez Fern\u00e1ndez<\/a>. The project aims to delve deeper into the role of BK channels and their interaction with NMDA receptors in regulating neuronal activity and synaptic communication. To this end, it will study the relationship between their structure and function, the cellular mechanisms that regulate their activity, and the consequences of their dysfunction in various pathological conditions. Through an approach that combines biophysical techniques and disease models, the research seeks to expand our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in neuronal function and identify potential therapeutic targets for diseases associated with synaptic dysfunction.<\/p>\n

\"Air\u00e1n<\/a>

Air\u00e1n R\u00f3denas.<\/p><\/div>\n

For its part, the research group Light-matter interactions and Extreme Application Photonics Laboratory<\/em> LEAPlab develops photonic technology, encompassing everything from its design to its manufacturing and on-site testing at its facilities at the University of La Laguna. Created by the researcher Air\u00e1n R\u00f3denas<\/a> Since joining the academic institution in 2019 through a Ram\u00f3n y Cajal postdoctoral research contract, the group has secured competitive funding from the outset, enabling them to establish the first femtosecond laser 3D nanofabrication system in the Canary Islands. In 2021, the group successfully fabricated the first photonic waveguides in the history of the Canary Islands and currently manufactures waveguide chips, optofluidic chips, nanostructured membranes, diffraction gratings, and microlenses. They are also working on developing technology for precision sensing in extreme environments for photonics, such as the sea, space, and for medical applications.<\/p>\n

The group has two European-funded research projects. First, it participates in the research consortium of the project Fiber-based plasmonic micro reactor for flow chemistry<\/em> (REACTOR), a multidisciplinary project funded by the EIC Pathfinder program, is a collaborative effort with leading institutions in the Netherlands, Germany, and Poland. The group focuses on manufacturing optofluidic components for efficient interconnection between optical fibers, fluidic capillaries, and optofluidic capillaries, using its own optofluidic chip technology.<\/p>\n

On the other hand, LEAPlab is also participating in the project Technologies for Extreme Environment Observation and Research<\/em> (EXPLORER), funded within the Marie Sk\u0142odowska-Curie Actions program of Horizon Europe, where we work together with researchers from Italy, France, Denmark, the USA, Australia or Japan, specializing in micro- and nano-technologies, as well as researchers from the fields of environment, biology and microbiology, for the future development of advanced technologies for sensing in extreme environments.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, this research group has recently participated in the TEKNE knowledge transfer initiative, which has a patent application that will provide industrial protection for its proprietary technology. LEAPlab also fosters predoctoral research by participating in the INITIUM ULL program, through which the doctoral candidate Urma Aemilia Gonz\u00e1lez<\/a> She is currently developing her doctoral thesis research.<\/p>\n

The research group in Physics of microscopic, mesoscopic and macroscopic systems,<\/a> directed by the professor Santiago Brouard Mart\u00edn<\/a>, The research team focuses on the study of quantum phenomena and the behavior of physical systems at different scales. Its main lines of research include open quantum systems for applications in thermal and magnetic sensors and quantum technologies; complex atomic and molecular systems, both in quantum media and in astrophysical environments; and ultracold atomic gases, such as Bose-Einstein condensates and cosmological analogues.<\/p>\n

Among the currently active projects, \u201cOpen quantum systems for detection and thermodynamics\u201d stands out, led by the researchers Daniel Alonso Ram\u00edrez<\/a> y Luis Alberto Correa Marichal<\/a>. This project focuses on the study of open quantum systems, that is, those that interact with their environment, and on their applications in detection and quantum thermodynamics.<\/p>\n

The group's research activity also has an international dimension, reflected in its collaborations with leading academic institutions such as the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom and Harvard University in the United States.<\/p>\n

\"Antonia<\/a>

Antonia Ruiz, researcher and secretary of the IUdEA.<\/p><\/div>\n

More than 600 publications and an international network<\/strong><\/p>\n

The scientific output of the research staff at this institute is remarkable, with over 600 publications in the last ten years. According to Delgado, one of their objectives is to continue increasing research productivity while keeping a fundamental aspect in mind: maintaining a high level of quality in their scientific contributions.<\/p>\n

Along these lines, the IUdEA is also working to strengthen its collaborative network with international universities and research centers, with the aim of promoting the internationalization of its scientific activity. These alliances extend particularly to countries in the European Union, such as Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands, and are complemented by participation in development cooperation projects in various regions of Africa. \u201cThe collaborations established with different areas and research centers allow us to create working networks and broaden the integration of our research lines with other countries,\u201d says Delgado.<\/p>\n

These initiatives align with one of IUdEA's main objectives: to consolidate its position as a national leader in its fields of specialization. To achieve this, the institute is committed to innovation, scientific excellence, and leadership in groundbreaking research projects. At the same time, it aspires to become a benchmark for training highly qualified researchers and for developing scientific and technological solutions capable of addressing the emerging challenges facing Canarian society.<\/p>\n

A well-equipped laboratory infrastructure is fundamental for the development of high-quality scientific research. In the case of the IUdEA, its researchers carry out their work in different spaces and with equipment distributed across several locations. Among these, the optics and materials characterization laboratories, located in the facilities of the Faculty of Physics and Mathematics, stand out. Fernando Delgado also emphasizes the importance of collaboration with the services of the General Research Support Service (SEGAI) of the University of La Laguna, as well as with the Science and Technology Park, which contribute to expanding the resources and capabilities available for research activity.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>Bringing science closer and sharing knowledge <\/strong><\/p>\n

The institute participates in various outreach activities, such as attending science fairs or visiting schools to give vocational talks and showcase the work done at the institute. Research staff also participate in the Faculty of Science's Open Days, giving a presentation that, among other things, highlights the institute's research activities for students.<\/p>\n

The institute also organizes seminars that have been attended by researchers from the Iberian Peninsula and various parts of Europe. \u201cWe have also organized workshops<\/em> "In these events, we bring in several researchers to give a talk and encourage a more open and direct conversation, from which the members of the institute can benefit," explains Delgado.<\/p>\n

Looking ahead, the director of the IUdEA highlights the rejuvenation of the research staff as one of the center's main objectives. In recent years, the institute has brought on five young researchers through competitive postdoctoral contracts, a strategy that, according to Delgado, contributes both to renewing the team and to fostering new and emerging lines of research. The addition of young talent allows for the incorporation of fresh ideas into ongoing projects and opens new avenues of work, thus promoting the institute's progressive evolution. With this strategy, the IUdEA seeks to strengthen its capacity for innovation and lay the foundations for ensuring the continuity of its scientific activity in the coming years.<\/p>\n

Scientific Culture and Innovation Unit (Cienci@ULL)<\/strong><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Con el prop\u00f3sito de agrupar al personal investigador de la Universidad de La Laguna que trabaja en \u00e1reas comunes vinculadas…<\/p>","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":14677,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[175,183,1296,3261,37,51],"tags":[5877,5882,5879,3691,2169,5874,5875,5880,5878,1781,5876,5881,2164],"class_list":["post-14676","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ciencia-ull","category-ciencias-medicas-basicas","category-fisica","category-instituto-universitario-de-estudios-avanzados-en-fisica-atomica-molecular-y-fotonica","category-investigacion","category-protagonistas","tag-airan-rodenas","tag-antonia-ruiz","tag-daniel-alonso-ramirez","tag-fernando-delgado","tag-fernando-lahoz","tag-instituto-de-estudios-avanzados-en-fisica-atomica-molecular-y-fotonica","tag-iudea","tag-luis-alberto-correa-marichal","tag-santiago-brouard","tag-teresa-giraldez","tag-ulises-ruyman-rodriguez-mendoza","tag-urma-aemilia-gonzalez","tag-victor-lavin"],"acf":[],"primary_category":null,"featured_image_thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/11\/Inst-Est-Fis-Atomica-IUdEA-02-300x200.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14676","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14676"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14676\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14688,"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14676\/revisions\/14688"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14677"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14676"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14676"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ull.es\/portal\/noticias\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14676"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}