Davide Piccinotti

Background

About Davide Piccinotti

I am a PhD-trained optoelectronic and materials scientist with broad expertise in nanophotonics, metasurfaces, thin film technologies, and semiconductor device physics. My work bridges fundamental research and applied innovation, with a strong focus on advanced optical materials, photonic system design, and quantum technologies. Throughout my academic and professional journey, I’ve worked in diverse international environments — from completing my MSc at the University of Padova and conducting my thesis at IM2NP (France), to earning a PhD and holding a postdoc at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (UK). I later joined the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (Genoa), where I contributed to quantum light source development, first as a postdoctoral fellow and then as a Marie Skłodowska-Curie individual fellow, working on single-photon sources based on perovskite nanomaterials. Following this, I worked as a Senior Optoelectronic Engineer at ELT Group (Rome), focusing on test engineering and characterization of advanced optical devices for defense applications. This role allowed me to apply my research background to real-world challenges, bridging science, engineering, and application. I am currently a researcher at Leonardo Labs, where I specialize in quantum optics with applications in imaging and LiDAR. My research aims to push the boundaries of optical sensing and quantum-enhanced technologies, translating cutting-edge science into solutions with direct industrial and societal impact. My interests lie at the intersection of photonics, quantum optics, and device engineering, and I am driven by the challenge of transforming innovative concepts into impactful technologies. I am always open to collaborations and discussions that connect fundamental research with technological innovation.