Ultrafast antenna-assisted phase transitions and applications in nanoscale optical switches

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Nanoantennas are small nanostructures designed to concentrate light on sub-wavelength length scales. This concentration can be used to locally heat up materials or drive energetic processes. In this project we explore the use of optical antenna structures in controlling phase change materials. Our team has recently developed a unique expertise in deposition of these materials for applications in photonic devices. The project addresses the challenge of how to locally address their phase change using light. The student will learn a range of techniques in materials deposition and nanofabrication of antennas using our clean room facilities. He will perform optical studies of these devices, including advanced optical switching studies. Results will be modelled using numerical and analytical modelling tools. Finally the new devices will be implemented into new applications in integrated photonic switches and metasurfaces for controlling light.