Research Highlights
01)
Nonlinear “Soliton” Wave Characterization
While linear materials support single-frequency (monochromatic) waves, the fundamental solutions to nonlinear structures are pulses. These solutions, known as solitary waves or “solitons,” propagate without distortion due to frequency dispersion. Our research group has developed a novel technique to analyze and optimize general 1D nonlinear electrical networks. This technique will allow for the design of nonlinear circuits and transmission lines use for frequency-comb generation with applications in radar, material metrology, and mmWave communications.
03)
Wide-Angle Rectifying Antenna Arrays
In energy-denied environments conventional power generation from solar/wind/hydrological sources is unavailable. Our research group is developing efficient and versatile rectifying antenna (rectenna) modules which can be used to provide emergency power to critical systems. These rectenna modules will allow essential power to be delivered in disaster relief, search-and-rescue, and military scenarios.
05)
Modeling of Discrete Synthetic Motion
Traveling-wave modulation of electromagnetic structures can be leveraged to remove some of the fundamental constraints applied to linear, time-invariant systems. This “synthetic motion” removes constraints including energy conservation and time-reversal symmetry. Further, spatial discretization introduces photonic bandgaps which can be leveraged for additional functionality like frequency-filtering and group-delay engineering. In this research project, efficient numerical and semi-analytical techniques are developed for designing and optimizing discretized media under synthetic motion. The procedure is used to design parametric amplifiers, one-way mirrors, and frequency-converters.
02)
Microwave Photonic Topological Insulators
Discontinuities in microwave structures such as rectangular waveguides, microstrip circuits, and coaxial transmission lines result in undesirable backscattering and reflection. Photonic topological insulators are a class of electromagnetic structures which are often robust to geometrical defects. Our group is investigating analysis techniques for novel photonic topological insulator at microwave frequencies for applications in robust civilian and defense communication systems.
04)
Subharmonic Radiating Antennas
Proper design of space-time modulated structures can lead to unique electromagnetic behaviors. In this research project, staggered time-modulation is applied to a loaded monopole antenna to simultaneously perform radiation and subharmonic frequency conversion. This allows for low-cost low-frequency oscillators to carry out significant frequency translations.
06)
Active Electromagnetic Surfaces
In an age where form factor dominates design, multifunctional devices which can be applied to conformal geometries and readily reconfigured in space and time are highly desirable. This research direction is focused on the theoretical and experimental development of metasurfaces which can be designed in real-time to perform polarization conversion, frequency translation, beam-shaping, amplification, and retro-reflection. The developments produced by this research effort have resulted in dramatic reductions in the computational cost of simulating and designing space-time modulated metasurfaces.
Join The Scarborough Lab
We are always interested in working with motivated students and researchers who are excited about electromagnetics. Opportunities are available for undergraduate students, Ph.D. students, and postdoctoral researchers.
1
Ph.D. Students (Funded)
We are seeking prospective Ph.D. students interested in research in electromagnetics, photonics, antennas, and related areas.
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Applications:
Students should apply through the ECEN Ph.D. program at CU Boulder and indicate interest in working with Prof. Cody Scarborough.
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Funding:
Most Ph.D. students are supported through:
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Research Assistantships (RA)
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Teaching Assistantships (TA)
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Fellowships
These positions typically include tuition coverage and a stipend.
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Ph.D. students conduct research alongside coursework, publish their work, present at conferences, and often mentor undergraduate researchers.
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Undergraduate Students
CU Boulder undergraduate students are welcome to join the lab to gain hands-on research experience while working with grad students & faculty.
Research Opportunities:
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Funded positions may be available through programs such as NSF REU, UROP, College of Engineering funding, or specific research projects
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Research for credit through independent study may also be possible; plan ahead and discuss this before the semester begins
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Expectations:
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Interest in electromagnetics or related areas
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Strong performance in core ECEN courses (such as fields)
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Undergraduate research provides experience that can strengthen resumes and prepare students for graduate school.
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Postdoctoral Researcbers
We welcome postdoctoral researchers interested in advancing research in electromagnetics, photonics, antennas, and related areas.
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Position Overview:
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Typical appointment length: 2 years
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Lead research projects and collaborate with students in the lab
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Contribute to publications and grant proposals
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Present publications at conferences
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Career Development:
Projects are designed to support career goals in academia, industry, or national laboratories.
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Interested applicants are encouraged to email Prof. Cody Scarborough with a CV and a brief description of their research background and interests.