His research is centered on the development of superconducting power sensors in the microwave to far-infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. This includes the design, fabrication and characterization of new forms and applications of transition edge sensor (TES) and microwave kinetic inductance detector (MKID) technologies. Such devices have applications spanning cosmology, astronomy, security imaging, and quantum information science. In the cosmology application, these ultra-sensitive cryogenic sensors are coupled to powerful telescopes and together are capable of measuring minute electromagnetic fluctuations from the birth of the Universe. Such measurements probe many aspects of fundamental physics, including the total mass of the neutrino species, the matter/energy content and nature of the Universe (dark matter, dark energy), and use the big bang as a laboratory to test physics at energies unattainable in even the most powerful particle accelerators on Earth.
Dr. Austermann’s research also includes the development of new technologies that are enabling to the application and function of such power sensors. This includes the development of millimeter-wave optics such as novel metamaterial lenses and lithographically defined silicon-platelet feedhorns. These optics are used to efficiently couple photons to the sensors in a controlled and well-characterized manner. Furthermore, Dr. Austermann works in the development of superconducting microwave resonators for multiplexing hundreds, or thousands, of sensors per signal line.
Dr. Austermann also has interests in outreach and education. In his spare time, Dr. Austermann enjoys giving guest lectures and leading discussion sessions on careers in science to students ranging from grade school to college. He’s also enjoyed volunteering at local observatories and science events. Dr. Austermann has advised and overseen numerous student research projects ranging from high-school to graduate students.