Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

This proposed discovery research aims to delve deeply into the physics and design of InP quantum dot (QD) vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), with a specific focus on achieving two primary objectives. Firstly, the objective is to unravel the physics and engineering behind C-band tunable InP QD VCSELs. Secondly, the research aims to comprehend and design C-band InP QD spin-polarized VCSELs, targeting a modulation bandwidth exceeding 200 GHz. The foundation of this research lies in acquiring a profound understanding of the physics governing QD materials and their intricate interplay with VCSEL structures. Employing theoretical models and advanced simulations will be crucial in unraveling the complex design intricacies of the proposed VCSELs. Among the notable challenges anticipated in achieving these objectives is the meticulous balancing act required to attain desired spectral characteristics, such as single-mode operation and tunability over the expansive C-band, all while preserving high output power and minimizing the threshold current. Furthermore, crafting a spin-polarized VCSEL with a remarkable modulation bandwidth necessitates an in-depth comprehension of spintronic device physics and the mechanisms enabling precise polarization control. The potential impact of this discovery research is substantial, holding promise for the development of novel laser technologies that are not only cost-effective but also offer high-performance capabilities. These advancements could revolutionize various facets of the IT industry, spanning from enhancing long-haul data transmission to enabling precise temperature and civil infrastructure monitoring. Moreover, these technologies could find applications in cutting-edge fields such as LIDAR applications and in elevating the capabilities of mobile devices, potentially enabling sophisticated features like efficient face recognition. Overall, this proposed discovery research signifies an exciting and pivotal area of exploration, carrying the potential to significantly advance our knowledge of QD materials and their profound applications in the domain of VCSELs.