Next-Generation Multimode Integrated Photonics: Innovations in On-Chip Optical Interconnects and Nonlinear Optics

Recent developments in multimode integrated photonics have enabled sophisticated functionalities in photonic systems. By utilizing multiple spatial modes within a single waveguide, multimode photonics offers significant advantages in terms of data capacity and processing capabilities. The latest progress in this field has unlocked new possibilities not only for telecom and datacom applications but also for emerging areas such as quantum and nonlinear photonics. The integration of multimode photonic components is poised to revolutionize the way we process and transmit information, making it a crucial area of research for the future of photonics.

This Research Topic aims to address the challenges and opportunities associated with next-generation multimode integrated photonics. It will explore novel design approaches, fabrication techniques, and material platforms that enhance the performance and scalability of multimode photonic devices. Advances in on-chip optical interconnects and nonlinear optics have demonstrated the potential to significantly improve data transmission rates, reduce power consumption, and enable new functionalities in photonic circuits.

We invite contributions that focus on recent advances and innovative approaches in multimode integrated photonic. Specific areas of interest include, but are not limited to:
- Design and optimization of multimode waveguides and devices (e.g, mode exchangers, multimode power splitters, de/multiplexers, etc.).
- Latest advancements in mode-division multiplexing technologies.
- Integration of subwavelength grating metamaterials for efficient modal management.
- Novel materials and platforms for multimode integrated photonics, such as silicon photonics, lithium niobate, and III-V materials, among others.
- The role of multimode photonics in enabling high-capacity, energy-efficient optical interconnects.
- Nonlinear interactions in multimode systems for advanced photonic functionalities.
- Integration of multimode photonics with electronic and optoelectronic components.
- Applications of multimode photonics in telecom, computing, sensing and quantum.

We welcome original and high-quality research articles, reviews, and perspective pieces that provide insights into the latest developments and future directions in multimode integrated photonics. Authors are encouraged to present theoretical analyses, simulation studies and experimental results that contribute to a deeper understanding of this rapidly evolving field.