Dr. Isinsu Baylam Toker (PI)

Dr. Isinsu Baylam Toker worked as a lecturer at Cal Poly Materials Engineering Department (2022-2023) before starting as an assistant professor at Cal Poly Physics Department in 2023. After completing her PhD, she also worked as a researcher at Koc University Surface Science and Technology Center, Istanbul Turkey.

During her studies, she has been involved in different interdisciplinary projects and collaborations as principal investigator, researcher, and advisor. The projects and collaborations included the design and development of femtosecond and continuous-wave solid-state lasers, biomedical applications of lasers, laser-based micromachining, and optical characterization of different materials such as graphene, supercapacitors, carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, and semiconductor thin films.

Dr. Isinsu Baylam Toker is a 2019 OPTICA Ambassador, a 2022 OPTICA Senior Member, and currently serves as Chair of the OPTICA Ultrafast Optical Phenomena Technical Group. She is also a member of the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings Alumni Network, SPIE, and APS.

As an Ambassador and Senior Member of OPTICA, she has been serving for the selection processes of different awards and scholarships, mentoring students, performing international science outreach activities, and delivering lectures to international student groups from all around the world.

Mico Bonanno (Student Researcher)

My name is Mico Bonanno and I'm from Phoenix, Arizona. I like to be outdoors, hiking, mountain biking, and I also love to sew. As a physics student, I'm very passionate about physics education, research/pedagogy, and I plan to move into physics/STEM educator role in my future career.

Ciara Kingham (Student Researcher)

My name is Ciara Kingham, and I am a fourth-year Physics student at Cal Poly. I am from the Bay Area, California, specifically Menlo Park. My past undergraduate research focused on condensed matter physics, specifically analyzing electronic behavior in nanosystems. I worked hands-on with solid-state materials and electronic equipment to develop a more robust profile of our nanosystems. I am also the co-president of Cal Poly's Women in Physics club, where I help create a supportive community and lead events for women and gender minorities in physics.

Outside of school, I enjoy practicing yoga, swimming, and hiking around San Luis Obispo. After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in physics research or industry, or attend graduate school to study medical physics.

Sophia Koehler (Student Researcher)

My name is Sophia Koehler and I am a fourth-year Physics student at Cal Poly, originally from Davis, California, with a strong interest in medical physics and medical imaging. My past research includes working as an Intern Research Analyst with the UC San Diego Liver Imaging Group, where I analyzed MRI data for liver imaging and imaging calibration studies. I have also worked on a research project focused on designing an advanced tractor seat that uses elastomeric and electromagnetic damping to reduce harmful vibrations and improve operator health and safety. These experiences sparked my interest in using physics to improve medicine.  

Outside of school, I serve as the co-president of Cal Poly's Women in Physics club, where I enjoy helping encourage more women to get involved in physics. In my free time, I love taking my dogs hiking and to the beach, baking, and backpacking with my family and friends. After graduation, I hope to pursue either medical school or a Ph.D. in medical physics and continue working at the intersection of physics and medicine.

James Mauck (Student Researcher, Frost Scholar)

James Mauck is a first-year undergraduate researcher in the Cal Poly Photon Lab, where he contributes to projects focused on laser development and implementation. His research interests include experimental optics and high-energy physics, with a special focus on light-matter interactions.

At the Cal Poly Photon Lab, James is gaining hands-on experience with the design, alignment, and testing of laser-based experiments. He is eager to continue contributing to the lab’s ongoing efforts in advancing photonics and to further his understanding of the field.

Outside of the lab, James enjoys surfing along the California Coast, reading, and exploring the natural and cultural landscape of San Luis Obispo. He plans to pursue graduate studies and hopes to apply his growing expertise in physics and photonics to future work in research and industry.

Jada Young (Student Researcher)

Jada Young is a 4th year Physics major at Cal Poly SLO, researching quantum communication and sensing trhough optical setups. Past experience includes synthesis and characterization of crystals for defect qubit research at Argonne National Laboratory, along with observational and theoretical astrophysics at Cal Poly.

Outside the lab, Jada enjoys spensing time outdoors (especially at the beach), trying new baking recipes, and being with friends.