Photonics

Photonic materials and systems have fundamentally changed the world in which we live.

From passive and active fibre optics for communications and medical applications, to light sources for displays, sensors and precision machining, through to energy harvesting technology such as photovoltaics and in chemical catalysis photonics provides the interface between electricity and light.

Our researchers work across all areas of photonics from the development of new advanced materials, their application in devices such as solar cells, sensors and light sources, and the development of future photonic technologies.

Research focus

We are experts in this field and cover all aspects related to photonics.

Some specific areas we focus on are:

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  Photonic materials

  New materials that interact with light are constantly being sought to advance our current level of capability. Our researchers are exploring 2D materials for THz and broadband sensing, semiconductor quantum dots and wells provide unique opportunities to control and tune light-matter interactions, while nanoscale engineering enable multi-function material development.

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  Photonic sensing and detection

  Our ability to develop high-performance detectors is enabling the development of faster devices and also devices with exceptional sensitivity to light. These enable us to sense and detect with improved resolution and sensitivity, which for example can be applied in medical technologies. The application of 2D,  nanocrystalline and organic materials is enabling new lightweight and flexible technologies.

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  Photonic light sources

  Increasing the efficiency light sources is required in order to reduce the energy demands of displays and lasers where waste heat presents a key technological challenge. Our work on understanding degradation processes in compound semiconductors is providing new insight into improving performance. Our work on new nanocrystals materials is also offering a potential alternative to currently utilised  heavy-metal based  materials.

Research highlights

Electronic and photonic technologies have revolutionised our world and now underpin all areas of modern life. We are involved in fundamental and applied research spanning atoms to devices and leading to new technology development.

• Read more about advanced functional materials and devices.

Much of our research also takes place within the Photon Science Institute. The Institute was established in 2005 to bring together experts from a range of fields to foster interdisciplinary collaborations and to maximise the potential applications of photon science.