PHYS Seminar: “Fiber Lasers: From Elemental Analysis to Smart Agriculture”, Parviz Elahi (Özyeğin Üniversitesi), 3:30PM November 4, 2026 (EN)

Parviz Elahi
Özyeğin University

“Fiber Lasers: From Elemental Analysis to Smart Agriculture”

Abstract

Fiber lasers have become versatile tools for scientific and industrial applications, offering high efficiency and precise control over laser parameters. In this talk, I will present our recent research that connects laser–matter interactions to three applications. First, I will discuss laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) using ultrafast GHz burst-mode pulses, showing how the temporal distribution of laser energy can improve ablation efficiency and enable elemental analysis with minimal material damage. Second, I will present our investigations into laser-assisted seed germination, exploring how controlled laser irradiation can influence germination and early plant growth. Finally, I will introduce our ongoing development of an intelligent laser-based weed-control system that integrates pulsed lasers, machine vision, and beam-steering technology for selective weed treatment in greenhouses. Together, these studies highlight the potential of advanced laser technologies to bridge fundamental laser–matter interactions with practical applications in sustainable and precision agriculture.

Parviz Elahi is an Assistant Professor affiliated with the Department of Natural Sciences, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and Özü HealthTech at Özyeğin University. He has worked in laser physics and technology for more than 20 years, with a particular focus on ultrafast fiber lasers and laser–matter interactions. He was a Senior Researcher at Bilkent University from 2010 to 2020 and subsequently an Assistant Professor in the Physics Department at Boğaziçi University from 2020 to 2024. He has co-authored papers in leading scientific journals, including Nature, Nature Photonics, and Nature Communications. His current research covers laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, laser processing, and laser applications in agriculture and food science.

Date: 4 November 2026, Wednesday
Time: 15:30
Place: SA-240

All interested are cordially invited.