Ultrafast photonics - new frontier in science and technology

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Investigation of physical processes occurring on natural time and length scales is one of the greatest challenges in science and is the focus of my research in ultrafast photonics at university of Ottawa. ******In nature, electron motion is responsible for energy conversion in a photochemical process. However, tracking it has been beyond the scope of the existing tools until recently because electrons move on attosecond time scale. Also, when material dimension is reduced to nanometers, it exhibits significantly different physical, chemical, electrical and optical properties compared to the bulk. Nanostructured materials have several potential applications but existing techniques do not provide the ability to control and modify material properties in 3D with sub-micron precision. My research conducted at the extreme limits of space and time addresses these two challenges. ******Employing state-of-the-art laser technology we propose: (i) to produce light bullets comparable in duration to electron motion and use them to probe electron dynamics in complex molecules – a high speed burst mode photography. (ii) to use light as an ultrahigh precision machining tool to manipulate material properties by confining it to nanometer dimensions in solids. ******The proposed research in ultrafast photonics will lead to the development of next generation imaging, diagnostic and fabrication tools. This will enable us to image ultrafast processes in atoms/molecules. Unraveling electron dynamics enables control of photochemical processes that play a pivotal role in chemistry and biology. It is also important for emerging technologies like nano- and bio-photonics, and molecular electronics. In solids, uncovering the underlying physics of light-matter interaction enables control and optimization of process parameters that will enhance the efficiency of the manufacturing process. It also enables fabrication of novel embedded photonic devices and sensors. Technologically, it opens new vistas for photonics-related technologies that will enhance safety and security of Canadians and facilitate innovation in industry.