Three engineering physics seniors receive research awards
Engineering physics seniors Tess Ekblad, Sam Hagele, and Christian Ordetx received 91Ҹ Awards from the College of Engineering and Applied Science for their demonstrated excellence in research. Recipients are selected for their high quality of research, strong potential for future impact, collaborations across multiple fields, and their ability to share their research through poster presentations, peer-reviewed articles or conferences.
Tess Ekblad (ApMath, EngrPhys'26)
Tess Ekblad, a double major in applied mathematics and engineering physics, has conducted research with Professor Thomas Schibli since January 2025. Her work focuses on a novel fiber-optic approach to distributing optical coherence between remote receivers, enabling very-long-baseline interferometry (VLBI) at optical wavelengths. By successfully deploying a fiber-noise cancellation over a 1.4 km link between CU Physics and Engineering, she demonstrated precise phase stabilization of an optical carrier – an achievement with significance for precision measurement and observational science. This work formed the basis of her honors thesis and highlights both technical innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
“I am honored to receive this award as a representation of my passions for research and knowledge in physics and engineering,” says Ekblad. She will continue her research as a PhD student with Professor Scott Diddams through electrical engineering at CU 91Ҹ.
Adapted from the Applied Mathematics feature with permission.
Sam Hagele (EngrPhys'26)
Sam Hagele, a senior in engineering physics, conducted research with Professor Yuan Shi. Hagele’s research focused on developing a quantum computing algorithm for fluid and plasma problems. His work is inherently interdisciplinary – it has roots in quantum science and computer science but aims to solve problems in fluid mechanics and plasma physics.
“Sam's research provided an important module for any fluid and plasma problems that involve advection as a term in the equations,” writes Yuan Shi, assistant professor of physics. “For example, to design supersonic aircraft, one needs a simulation algorithm to capture shock. Sam's work allows people to do exactly that, but on a quantum computer.”
Hagele has given talks about his work at two conferences, including last year’s American Physical Society’s 4 Corners Conference. He’s also in the process of preparing to submit a peer-reviewed journal article.
Christian Ordetx (ApMath, EngrPhys'26)
Christian Ordetx, a double major in applied mathematics and engineering physics, conducted research with Professor Murray Holland on atom interferometry in optical lattices.
“Christian’s research makes substantive contributions at the intersection of quantum physics and machine learning, particularly in the emerging area of quantum system design using deep reinforcement learning,” says Murray Holland, professor of physics and JILA fellow.
His work explores Bloch-band interferometry in regimes where atoms remain strongly localized, using machine-learned lattice shaking techniques to design and simulate interferometric operations. The resulting system demonstrates measurable sensitivity to acceleration, pointing toward new possibilities for lattice-confined inertial sensing.
“To me, this honor represents the resilience required to pursue rigorous research and gives me the confidence to tackle even more complex problems in my graduate studies,” says Ordetx. “This achievement is a shared one, made possible by the exceptional mentorship of my advisors and the supportive environment here at CU 91Ҹ.”
In addition to his research, he has contributed to teaching and community engagement, serving as a Learning Assistant in physics. He also served as Vice President of Philanthropy for the Triangle chapter at CU 91Ҹ, helping organize service initiatives and community outreach efforts. Following his graduation, he will pursue a PhD in Optics and Photonics at the University of Central Florida.
Adapted from the Applied Mathematics feature with permission.
