This modern text provides detailed coverage of the important physical processes underpinning semiconductor devices. Advanced analysis of the optical properties of semiconductors without the requirement of complex mathematical formalism allows clear physical interpretation of all obtained results. The book describes fundamental aspects of solid-state physics and the quantum mechanics of electron-photon interactions, in addition to discussing in detail the photonic properties of bulk and quantum well semiconductors. The final six chapters focus on the physical properties of several widely-used photonic devices, including distributed feedback lasers, vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers, quantum dot lasers, and quantum cascade lasers. This book is ideal for graduate students in physics and electrical engineering and a useful reference for optical scientists.

‘Prof. Nisoli’s book is an excellent introduction for masters or graduate level students wishing to learn more about the physics underlying semiconductor lasers and light emitting diodes. In the first half of the book there is a thorough, modern discussion of semiconductor physics, optical properties and band theory, with an interesting section on quantum wells. The final three chapters are a detailed and comprehensive discourse on LEDs, semiconductor lasers and low-dimensional lasers. I shall certainly be recommending my students to read this book as part of their studies.’

Robert A. Taylor - University of Oxford

‘This is a comprehensive book dealing with the physical properties and lasing characteristics of most widely used semiconductor lasers. The author’s approach is often theoretical, however, detailed discussion of the practical and applied aspects of semiconductor lasers and plenty of numerical exercises provide for a well-balanced description. It should be highly recommended for advanced courses on the topic or as a reference for researchers.’

Orazio Svelto - Emeritus Professor of Physics, Politecnico di Milano