Next-Generation Integrated Light Sources with 2D Materials for Classical and Quantum Photonics

Integrated nanophotonic light sources represent a rapidly evolving area within nanophotonics and integrated optics, driven by the growing demand for compact, high-speed, and energy-efficient light sources for optical communication and quantum technologies. Two-dimensional (2D) materials—including graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), and MXenes—have introduced new paradigms in light–matter interaction due to their strong excitonic resonances, tunable band structures, and ultrafast carrier dynamics. Recent research has revealed the potential of integrating these atomically thin materials into nanoscale photonic cavities, enabling new advances such as low-threshold lasing, ultrafast modulation, and broadband tunability. Despite these achievements, major challenges persist, including thermal management, stability, large-scale integration, and compatibility with existing CMOS fabrication processes. Addressing these issues remains critical to the practical deployment of such light sources.This Research Topic aims to explore the fundamental principles, technological developments, and future directions in integrated nanophotonic lasers based on 2D materials and van der Waals heterostructures, with particular emphasis on scalable integration, light–matter interactions, and emerging classical and quantum photonic applications. The goal is to advance understanding of the underlying physical mechanisms that govern light generation, amplification, and confinement at the nanoscale, while identifying scalable strategies for device integration. Key questions include how 2D materials can enhance cavity performance, the influence of excitonic and many-body interactions on lasing behavior, and how emerging cavity designs may yield tunable and low-threshold emission. Contributions addressing both theoretical proposals and experimental realizations are encouraged to bridge the gap between proof-of-concept demonstrations and functional integrated devices.To gather further insights into the design, fabrication, and application of integrated nanophotonic light sources with 2D materials, this Research Topic welcomes contributions that combine materials engineering, photonics, and device physics. It covers both classical and quantum photonic applications and emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches that integrate photonic structures, electronic control, and material synthesis. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:o 2D-material-based nanolasers and microcavity laserso Exciton–polariton dynamics and strong light–matter coupling phenomenao Electrically and optically pumped low-threshold integrated laserso Plasmonic, dielectric, and photonic crystal cavity architectureso Tunable, reconfigurable, and nonlinear nanophotonic deviceso Quantum and topological photonic systems realized by 2D materialsThis Research Topic welcomes Original Research articles, Review articles, Perspectives, and Methods papers that align with the scope of the participating journals and sections. Topic editors: Thomas Christopoulos, Antti J. Moilanen Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/82965/next-generation-integrated-light-sources-with-2d-materials-for-classical-and-quantum-photonics