Chiral nano-optics

About the Project

Telecommunications networks utilise light signals transmitted through fibre optics to efficiently transfer information over long distances. They rely on electronic circuits for data processing and storage. A significant advancement in modern information transmission networks is the development of all-optical switches. These switches handle light-encoded data, eliminating the reliance on slower and more error-prone electronic circuits that are vulnerable to heat. All-optical switches operate using nonlinear interactions between photons. Second-order nonlinear effects are particularly symmetry-specific, requiring materials to be non-centrosymmetric. Chiral materials meet this criterion, making them a fascinating class of materials for exploring nonlinear properties.

In this fundamental research project, you will experimentally explore the magneto-optical and chiroptical properties of hybrid semiconductors using both steady-state and time-resolved advanced spectroscopic techniques. The primary goal is to discover new optical phenomena that can be utilised in all-optical switches, leveraging the optical, electronic, and spin properties of the materials. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with synthetic chemists and device physicists.

The successful candidate will conduct experimental work in Prof. Girish Lakhwani's research group in the School of Chemistry. For more information, please visit the group website or contact Prof. Lakhwani.