Shedding Light on Photonics
The dynamic field of photonics embraces the use of light beams and optical signals in such far-ranging applications as high capacity Internet transmission, laser-based medical, surgical and therapeutic techniques, and probing and modifying individual atoms and molecules. It is clear that continued cutting edge research in this emerging field promises untold benefits to Canadian society as well as our economy.
Dr. Thomas Brabec has spent the last decade building his reputation as one of Europe's leading scientists in photonics. His expertise has advanced work on laser physics, with emphasis on ultra-short pulses, quantum electronics and a new area known as "strong field laser physics". The novel theoretical and experimental approaches developed by Dr. Brabec and his collaborators at the Vienna University of Technology are widely published in several leading international journals.
As Chair in Ultrafast Photonics at the University of Ottawa, Dr. Brabec is now applying his wealth of knowledge to further strengthen Canada's position in this emerging field. A number of researchers from his Vienna team have joined the university's strong team of top researchers already working in photonics-related fields. Under Dr. Brabec's expert guidance, the team is creating a world class research centre for advanced photonics.
Over the next five years, Dr. Brabec's efforts will focus on: developing new concepts for coherent x-ray sources of ultra-short pulses, particularly related to the field of medicine; designing novel tools to advance laser-based eye surgery and optical telecommunications; employing nonlinear optics to design innovative optical telecommunications systems and electro-optic devices, and; advancing fundamental research in strong field physics and its application to materials science. He will also partner with leading researchers around the globe to create an international network of photonics expertise.
With Dr. Brabec at the helm, Canada is now well positioned to lead research and development in this exciting new field.