Shai
Ben Ami

Shai Ben Ami is a PhD candidate in the field of nonlinear optics. Shai’s research focuses on how light and sound waves interact within silicon microchips, which are essential components in the integrated photonics industry. For these waves to interact, they must overlap as they travel through the chip. However, standard silicon chips typically prevent this from happening. While others have explored non-standard materials or exotic designs to address this challenge, Shai uses surface acoustic waves—vibrations that travel along the chip’s surface—to overcome this limitation, enabling light and sound to work together in standard chips and unlocking new possibilities in photonics technology.

Shai seeks to unlock new possibilities in photonics technology by enabling light and sound to work together in standard silicon chips.

Shai completed his BSc in electrical engineering and physics and an MSc in physics at Bar-Ilan University. He lives in Givatayim with his wife, their daughter, and their dog. He served in a tank crew in the IDF and spent six months on reserve duty during the Iron Swords War. In his free time, Shai enjoys playing basketball, travelling with his family, and listening to lectures about advanced topics in physics.