Nanoscale manipulation of matter with light

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Dr. Bhardwaj's research involves using light pulses that are shorter than a trillionth of a second, produced by a femtosecond laser, to probe and manipulate properties of matter on their natural time and length scales. In transparent materials like glass, his research focuses on understanding how light permanently modifies material properties in 3D with a precision that is hundred times less than the size of human cell. Such a manipulation will lead to fabrication of novel, multi-layered, embedded, miniature photonic devices that will enhance data transmission along optical networks and for bio-sensing applications. Extending his research to biological systems, he will explore use of light pulses for tissue processing and to selectively interact, probe, manipulate and destroy individual elements of live cells. This research is important for laser surgery, drug discovery and gene therapy. At a fundamental level he will study molecules, basic unit of all matter, to understand the microscopic processes involved in light-matter interaction. Specifically, he will address how electrons in a molecule collectively respond during interaction with light. Such an understanding is vital for new and emerging technologies like nano-photonics, molecular electronics and attosecond science, and in chemistry and biology. Canada is a world leader in the science of ultrashort light pulses, specifically intense laser physics, and this research will consolidate its leadership role. Dr. Bhardwaj's research, which is at the forefront of science and technology, will enhance our understanding of how light interacts with matter. By harnessing light it will lead to improvement in health, security and social well being of Canadians.