Nonlinear Fourier Transform Workshop

This was a 2-day workshop located in TU Delft in the Netherland on 3th-4th February 2020. One of the main organizers was the FONTE project (https://fonte.astonphotonics.uk/) in which I am one of the ESRs (early-stage researchers). 

The topics that were discussed in the workshop can be found in this link (https://nft-workshop.astonphotonics.uk/schedule/), together with abstracts. The atmosphere was pleasant, fulfilled with engaged researchers actively answering numerous questions and starting state-of-art discussions. For those who engaged recently in the topic and those who were like to review and rethink the concepts, we had the opportunity to have a great introduction in the theme given by Professor Sander Wahls. 

The nonlinear Fourier transform, in a few words, is a method to solve some non-linear partial differential equations such as the nonlinear Schrodinger equation, which describes the propagation of light in optical fibers.  In other words, solving/understanding this equation allows us to design signaling schemes tailored to optical fibers and thus increase the speed of communications (more speed for the internet!).

It was also my first time in Delft and I must say I really enjoyed the event and of getting to know so many brilliant minds. The city itself is a must see- a small and cozy urban area painted with several canals. The historical center is a joyful place to visit and to have great traditional meals. The university is stupendous and I was really impressed by the mixture of traditional and contemporary architecture. It was a great experience!