Photonics and Plasmas

Our photonics and plasma faculty are at the forefront of innovative and internationally renowned research. Their work spans a vast spectrum, from nanoscale optical engineering to groundbreaking investigations into laser fusion energy.

This diverse research landscape is supported by an impressive array of resources, including advanced, high-power lasers, advanced photonics technology and specialized nanotechnology fabrication tools.

These powerful resources are readily available in our ultrafast laser facilities and the on-campus NanoFabrication facility. This access not only provides invaluable hands-on experience for aspiring researchers but also attracts numerous industrial partners, fostering a collaborative and dynamic research environment. As a student here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to contribute to research at the intersection of light-based technologies and real-world applications, enriching your academic journey with experiences that transcend traditional boundaries and foster true innovation in photonics and plasma research.

Find faculty members who specialize in Photonics and Plasmas.

Possible Careers

  • Photonics engineer
  • Optical engineer
  • Silicon photonics engineer
  • Laser engineer
  • Semiconductor process engineer
  • Fusion energy researcher
  • Computational plasma physicist

Areas of Specialization

In electrical and computer engineering, photonics is the engineering of light, from lasers and fiber optics to solar cells. Plasma, the fourth state of matter, is used for material processing, like creating microchips. Both fields use electromagnetism to manipulate light and matter, forming a bridge between optics and electronics.

Current Photonics Research

Current photonics research is an intensive field focused on harnessing light across diverse scales. Key areas include manipulating light at the nanoscale through nanoplasmonics and the broader discipline of nanophotonics, alongside exploring high-frequency THz photonics. Research leverages advanced laser technology for ultrafast and nonlinear photonics and precision manufacturing via laser micro/nano-machining. Applications span integrated optics, bio-photonics (for imaging), opto-microfluidics and practical environmental sensing.

Current Plasmas Research

Current plasmas research is a highly specialized field focused on matter under extreme conditions. Core efforts concentrate on intense laser-plasma interactions, which are fundamental to generating x-ray and high-energy particles for applications across physics and materials science. A major, ambitious goal is achieving sustainable laser fusion energy. The research scope also extends beyond Earth to study the behavior of space plasmas that govern cosmic phenomena.