Researcher at Institute of Mechanics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences | Bulgaria
Prof. D. Sc. Ivan M. Uzunov is an internationally respected physicist and expert in nonlinear fiber optics, photonics, and optical solitons. With over four decades of academic and research experience, he has become a pivotal figure in advancing the theory and application of nonlinear wave propagation in optical systems. His work bridges theoretical physics and applied photonics, making substantial contributions to both fundamental science and practical technologies in fiber optics and communications.
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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits
Prof. Uzunov’s academic journey began with a Master’s degree in Physics from the University of Sofia (1981), followed by a Ph.D. in Physics from the Institute of General Physics in Moscow (1986). His Ph.D. thesis on “Instability of laser radiation in media with thermal nonlinearity” set the tone for his lifelong focus on nonlinear optical phenomena. He later achieved a Doctor Rerum Naturalium Habilitatus from Friedrich-Schiller University, Jena, Germany (1998), and earned a prestigious Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) in Radiophysics and Quantum Electronics in Bulgaria (1999).
🏛️ Professional Endeavors
Prof. Ivan M. Uzunov has held prominent academic and research positions across Bulgaria, Germany, Russia, and Canada, showcasing his broad international engagement. He served as Professor (2008–2025) and Director (2007–2015) of the Department of Applied Physics at the Technical University of Sofia, where he provided both academic leadership and research guidance. He was also Head of the Laboratory of Fibre and Nonlinear Optics at the Institute of Electronics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, and worked as Research Manager at Optiwave Corporation in Ottawa, Canada. His career reflects a strong dedication to scientific innovation, administration, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
🔬 Contributions and Research Focus
Prof. Ivan M. Uzunov has made significant contributions to photonics, nonlinear fiber optics, and soliton theory, with a strong focus on Ginzburg–Landau-type equations. He is especially recognized for his pioneering work on N-soliton interactions, self-frequency shifts of dark solitons, and pulse switching in nonlinear couplers. His research incorporates advanced theoretical modeling, including bifurcation theory and numerical simulations. In recent years, he has explored Raman-scattering-perturbed Ginzburg–Landau systems, enhancing scientific understanding of ultrafast pulse dynamics, coherent structures, and kink/anti-kink solutions in nonlinear optical media, reinforcing his role as a leader in nonlinear wave physics.
🌍 Impact and Influence
Prof. Uzunov has authored 164 scientific publications, including 65 papers in high-impact international journals and 47 peer-reviewed conference proceedings. His work has attracted 931 citations (excluding self-citations), with an h-index of 14 on Scopus. His collaborations with global experts like Prof. Falk Lederer and institutions such as Friedrich-Schiller University highlight his international recognition. His research has had significant influence on the development of nonlinear wave theory, shaping the evolution of fiber optic technologies over the past three decades.
đź“Š Academic Citations & Research Skills
Prof. Ivan M. Uzunov’s impressive citation record underscores the scientific impact of his research, with top-cited papers published in prestigious journals such as Optics Letters, Physical Review Letters, and Optical and Quantum Electronics. These works are frequently referenced in the fields of nonlinear optics and fiber communications. He possesses advanced research skills in numerical simulations, nonlinear differential equations, bifurcation analysis, and modeling of ultrafast optical pulses. His methodology effectively integrates rigorous mathematical frameworks with practical photonic applications, enabling deep insights into nonlinear wave phenomena and reinforcing his expertise in complex optical systems.
🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience
Prof. Uzunov has taught extensively at Technical University of Sofia, mentoring numerous graduate students, supervising doctoral dissertations, and guiding postdoctoral researchers. His experience spans both theoretical physics and applied engineering, making him a valuable educator who bridges the gap between academic knowledge and industry practice. He has also been involved in curriculum development, introducing courses in nonlinear optics, fiber communication systems, and optical signal processing.
🏅 Awards and Honors
While specific award titles are not listed, Prof. Uzunov’s selection as Director, invitations to international collaborative projects, and invited publications (e.g., Optik’s Golden Jubilee of Solitons) reflect his peer recognition and professional standing. His profile positions him as a leading candidate for prestigious accolades like the Best Researcher Award, especially in photonics and applied physics.
🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions
Prof. Uzunov’s legacy lies in his ability to integrate theoretical excellence with practical relevance, influencing optical communication systems and nonlinear wave studies. As he continues publishing in top journals through 2025, his ongoing work on solitons, Ginzburg–Landau models, and Raman effects promises to open new research pathways. He is a mentor, a scientist, and a thought leader whose influence will likely continue to shape the future of optical physics and nonlinear dynamics.
Top Noted Publications
Transitions of stationary to pulsating solutions in the complex cubic-quintic Ginzburg-Landau equation under the influence of nonlinear gain and higher-order effects
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Authors: Uzunov I.M., Georgiev Zh.D., Arabadzhiev T.N.
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Journal: Physical Review E
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Year: 2018
Kink solutions of the complex cubic–quintic Ginzburg-Landau equation in the presence of intrapulse Raman scattering
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Authors: Uzunov I.M., Vassilev V.M., Arabadzhiev T.N., Nikolov S.G.
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Journal: Optik – International Journal for Light and Electron Optics
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Year: 2023
Coherent structures and sequences of exact kink and anti kink solutions to the complex cubic–quintic Ginzburg–Landau equation perturbed by intrapulse Raman scattering
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Authors: Uzunov I.M., Arabadzhiev T.N., Vassilev V.M., Nikolov S.G.
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Journal: Optical and Quantum Electronics
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Year: 2023
Long-living periodic solutions of complex cubic-quintic Ginzburg–Landau equation in the presence of intrapulse Raman scattering: a bifurcation and numerical study
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Authors: Uzunov I.M., Nikolov S.G., Arabadzhiev T.N., Georgiev Zh.D.
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Journal: Physical Review E
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Year: 2024
One approach to find the pulsating pulse solutions of the complex cubic Ginzburg–Landau equation considering intrapulse Raman scattering
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Authors: Uzunov I.M., Nikolov S.G., Arabadzhiev T.N.
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Journal: Optical and Quantum Electronics
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Year: 2025