Photonics

Our Photonics research theme, where innovation in light-based science and technology opens doors to groundbreaking applications across multiple fields.

Photonics, the science of light generation, manipulation, and detection, is central to advancements in imaging, sensing, telecommunications, and beyond. Our research spans four primary subthemes, each driving forward the boundaries of what light can achieve in both scientific and practical applications.

Research highlights

Novel Light Sources

Our work on novel light sources pushes the limits of what light can do, developing cutting-edge technologies such as ultrafast lasers, optical frequency combs, and supercontinuum sources. These technologies generate light with remarkable properties, spanning wavelengths from the vacuum ultraviolet to the mid-infrared. By advancing optical parametric oscillators and novel ultrafast laser systems, we enable new capabilities in fields like spectroscopy, metrology, and imaging, impacting sectors ranging from astronomy to industrial manufacturing.

High-Power Laser Applications

Our research in high-power laser applications is centred on harnessing lasers for transformative industrial and medical applications. These high-power systems are developed for a variety of uses, from precision manufacturing techniques and additive manufacturing validation to medical device fabrication. Advanced optical diagnostics allow us to measure complex properties like strain, deformation, and fluid dynamics, offering insights that enhance manufacturing models and technologies used in 3D printing and other critical processes.

Photonic Sensing and Measurement

In photonic sensing and measurement, we develop specialized instrumentation with the ability to operate in extreme conditions, bridging the fields of clinical photonics, quantum optics, and astrophotonics. By integrating advanced microfabrication with cutting-edge measurement techniques, our work enables precise and adaptable tools for sensing and diagnostics, supporting everything from medical imaging to environmental monitoring and defence technologies.

Nanophotonics

Our nanophotonics research explores the interaction of light at the nanoscale, leveraging innovative materials and nanostructures to create ultra-compact, high-efficiency photonic devices. From flat optics that redefine imaging and display capabilities to quantum applications and soliton dynamics, our work in nanophotonics opens new possibilities in quantum technology, telecommunications, and beyond. These advancements aim to overcome current limitations in device miniaturization, offering enhanced functionality and performance in increasingly compact forms.

Biomedical Photonics

Biomedical photonics is revolutionizing healthcare, we use light-based technologies for improved diagnostics, treatment, and monitoring. Advanced lasers and optical sensors including photon counting techniques enable enhanced imaging and real-time monitoring, while ultrashort pulsed lasers provide precision surgery solutions, and insights into molecular processes. We develop custom medical devices based on novel photonic sensing techniques, miniaturised manufacture of fibre optic probes, and new laser developments - with translation to clinical use in collaboration with local hospitals, and as part of our Global Research Institute in Health and Care Technologies. These innovations can make healthcare faster, more precise, and more personalized, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Each of these subthemes reflects our commitment to pioneering photonics research that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape. By advancing the science and engineering of light, we aim to make meaningful contributions to both fundamental research and real-world applications.

Our research groups