Linzhi Yu: Analog computational imaging with meta-optics

Linzhi Yu in lab. Photo credit: Haobijam Johnson Singh.

In his doctoral dissertation, MEng Linzhi Yu explores how metasurfaces, which are ultrathin optical components composed of subwavelength nanostructures, can perform analog computations directly on light. His research introduces compact and passive devices capable of real-time image processing tasks such as edge detection, pattern recognition, and structured illumination, operating entirely without digital electronics.

By addressing the limitations of conventional optics and digital processing, including bulkiness, power consumption, and latency, Linzhi Yu’s work demonstrates how metasurfaces can bridge the gap between performance and miniaturization.

His dissertation presents a series of metasurface-based processors and imaging tools, including a broadband interferometer for phase imaging, a platform for implementing mathematical operations optically, complex holography, and phase-shifting structured illumination.

These results highlight the potential of metasurfaces as a promising platform for next-generation imaging, sensing, and computational systems.

Public defence on Friday, 9 January 2026

The doctoral dissertation of Linzhi Yu, MEng, in the field of optics titled Analog Computational Imaging with Meta-Optics: From Image Processing to Structured Illumination will be publicly examined at the Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, at 15:00 on Friday, 9 January 2026 in Rakennustalo RG202 (Korkeakoulunkatu 5, Tampere).

The opponents will be Professor Daewook Kim (University of Arizona), Professor Isabelle Staude (Friedrich Schiller University Jena) and Professor Rajesh Menon (University of Utah). The Custos will be Professor Humeyra Caglayan (Tampere University).