Research Theme: Photonic Materials and Technologies
We ensure impact by developing world-leading studies in emerging and fast-growing optical technologies.
What are Photonic Materials and Technologies?
Research into Photonic materials and technologies involve the design, study and development of novel materials and technologies with the ability to control and tailor light-matter interactions at will.
Our efforts in this field cover a wide range of prominent and emerging research fields including optical fibres and waveguides, metamaterials, metasurfaces (as their 2D versions) and light emitting materials, nanophotonics, plasmonics, non-linear optics, solid-state quantum-optics, all-dielectric periodic structures and modelling of optical transitions.
In this context, our research spans from fundamental studies (physical understanding of wave-matter interactions and its arbitrary control) up to real world applications (such as devices based on transformation optics, quantum technologies and sensors).
Innovative research
We develop cutting edge research in Photonic materials for future technologies in spectral ranges from microwave, millimetre waves up to optical frequencies. By combining a fundamental understanding of light-matter interactions at the quantum and electromagnetic level, we design and realise new materials and devices that have a wide range of applications in fields as diverse as sensing, data storage, telecommunication, next-generation lasers and LEDs, optical computers, secure quantum communication, etc
To push forward this fundamental research area, we explore metamaterials and metasurfaces concepts not only in space but also in time by studying temporal and space-time metamaterials where their properties are changed in four dimensions (x, y, z, t).
Plasmonics is a prominent research arena within the field of nanophotonics aiming to explore and understand interactions between light and matter at nanometre scales. Our research in this field is focused on the analysis, design and implementation of dielectric-metal nanoparticles and thin metallic films for enhanced Localized Surface Plasmons resonances and Surface Plasmons Polaritons control, respectively.
Future Photonic Technologies
Research and Innovation in Photonic Materials and Technologies is highly regarded as a prominent area with future national economic and societal impact.
It is in this context where our research stands out. We are carrying out cutting edge fundamental and experimental studies to push the limits of current technologies by exploiting photonics, quantum-technologies, metamaterials and plasmonics techniques.
By providing a physical insight of light-matter interactions and working together with industrial partners we envision that our research will be crucial for the future ultra-compact, high-efficient and innovative technologies based on photonic materials.
We aim to move from the lab environment through to industry and bridge the gap between academia and industry. We welcome a collaborative approach to tackle every day challenges as a part of, for example, the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme, the UK’s Future Photonics Hub or the EU Quantum Flagship.