Jason Bonacum earned his Ph. D. in Physics from Vanderbilt University in 2020 under the supervision of Professor Richard Haglund. His Ph. D. research focused on characterizing complex atomic structures in intercalated few-layer graphene using atomic-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy, which was performed in collaboration with the Advanced Microscopy Lab at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This work also relied on the nanofabrication facilities in VINSE where Jason fabricated devices for in situ microscopy using electron-beam lithography, focused ion beam milling, and deposition instruments.
Currently, Jason is the Vice President of Research at Digital Optics Technologies and a visiting scholar at Northwestern University where he engineers state-of-the-art metrology instruments based on atom interferometry and fast/slow-light systems. He uses the skills and knowledge gained from his experience at Vanderbilt University and VINSE to design integrated photonic circuits, which are essential to miniaturizing the technology for commercial applications.