Systems and methods for modulator-based optical interconnections are disclosed. An optical interconnect system comprises a substrate, a wave path, a coupling structure, and a modulator. The wave path may be a waveguide disposed on the substrate. The coupling structure is coupled to the substrate and disposed within the wave path. The modulator is positioned between the substrate and the coupling structure. An optical interconnect method comprises the steps of transmitting light through a wave path, redirecting the light onto a modulator with a coupling structure, modulating the light from the coupling structure with the modulator; and redirecting modulated light from the modulator into the wave path with the coupling structure.