Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Optical communication networks play a crucial role in the photonics industry and impact society by enabling unparallel data transfer speeds, enhancing global connectivity, and revolutionizing the way information is transmitted, shared, and accessed. In particular, free-space optical communication (FSO) systems simplify the communication network infrastructure, facilitating connections between buildings, moving vehicles, and satellites, and for secure quantum key distribution. However, existing FSO technologies primarily rely on bulky, slow, power-intensive, and costly conventional optical components and mechanical assemblies. This proposed research program aims to provide transformative solutions for high-speed and energy-efficient FSO technology, with extensive scientific, technical, and economic impact. We will first address the longstanding challenges in signal beam steering during long-distance free-space communication, by developing high performance and ultracompact optical phased arrays for efficient data transmission and collection. Additionally, we will design a compact and power-efficient on-chip modulator, capable of reaching data rates up to 1 Tbps, to support applications such as satellite-to-satellite communication and high-speed data transmission in remote or challenging environments. The anticipated demonstration of a complete FSO system, including on-chip laser sources, modulators, phased arrays, and detectors, holds the promise of transforming high-speed optical communication, enabling ultra-fast data transfer rates, enhancing network efficiency, and driving the evolution of modern communication systems. Our innovative research work will catalyze advancements in silicon photonics, fostering potential commercialization with new business activities. This could result in significant economic advantages for Canada, further reinforcing its leadership in photonic technologies. Canada already has had a strong presence in the global photonics industry, but there is still room to grow the country's innovation further. This research program strives to offer a diverse team of trainees, including at least 3 PhD, 3 MASc and 5 BEng students, with a dynamic learning and training environment. They will develop both technical expertise and professional skills necessary for leadership roles in the growing photonics industry. By the end of the program, the trainees will be well-prepared to advance communication solutions, contributing to Canada's innovation landscape, economic growth, and global competitiveness in photonic technologies. They will be uniquely positioned to make immediate contributions to the Canadian photonics sector, collaborating with industry leaders such as Metamaterial, Xanadu, Nicoya Life, RANOVUS, and Enablence.