Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

Micro- and nano-scale optical devices hold the potential for revolutionizing information and communication technologies by overcoming speed and bandwidth limitations associated with electrical devices. Within this theme, the research programs of Drs. Chau and Holzman aim to develop novel micro- and nano-optical devices that achieve guiding, switching, and processing functionalities. Specifically, these aims will be achieved by: 1) The Subwavelength Optics and Plasmonics Program - Dr. Chau's research program strives to develop a new class of integrated device that combines the speed and bandwidth of optical interconnects with the miniaturization capabilities of electronics. This will be accomplished by developing structures that support, guide, and switch surface plasmon polaritons, electromagnetic modes that are squeezed near the surface of metals. 2) The Micro-Optical Engineering Program - Dr. Holzman's electrical engineering research program centres on the development of integrated all-optical switches for high-speed telecommunication switching and integrated optical processing applications. Achieving these objectives is important to the continued advancement and application of photonic devices. However, to carry out this research, several basic pieces of equipment are required which include 1) a broadband source of laser radiation, 2) a broadband analyzer of laser radiation, 3) positioning stages to manipulate micron-scale devices, and 4) a stable platform on which to conduct the experiments. Currently, this instrumentation is not available at the University of British Columbia Okanagan. By addressing these requirements, the equipment requested in this grant will greatly facilitate the research programs of the co-applicants and enable cutting edge research at the forefront of photonics.