Structured light-matter interactions: from fundamentals to applications

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Current photonics technologies are based on interaction of simple or scalar light with matter. However, light beams can be complex and twisted - vector beams possessing spin and orbital angular momentum. The vector nature of light can influence the characteristics of light-matter interactions, therefore, opens new opportunities in both the classical and quantum photonics technologies. The vision of this discovery program is to develop novel tools and innovative technologies by engineering new states of light, to control and probe light-matter interactions in molecules and solids. Chiral molecules and their interactions are critical in a variety of chemical and biological processes. Commonly used analytical methods have poor detection efficiency. Using twisted light beams, we propose to significantly enhance chiral sensitivity by several orders of magnitude with detection efficiency up to single molecule level. It can be a potential game changer that can revitalize the use of chiral spectroscopy in pharmacology where about 60% of drugs being developed are chiral. We will also explore techniques to probe excited state dynamics and provide impactful insights into the influence of vector nature of light on molecular transitions and energy coupling. Designer light-molecule interactions will enable control of photochemical processes, thereby offering new opportunities in emerging technologies such as molecular electronics, nano- and bio-photonics. The development of smart materials and next generation nanodevices requires engineering the material properties with nanometer spatial precision and control. Ultrafast laser processing of materials is a key emerging technology in industrial production. However, current technology uses simple light beams. We propose to exploit the unique properties of twisted light beams to precisely manipulate and control material properties in 3D. Our research enables control and optimization of the modification dynamics providing unprecedented opportunities for smart machining, active tuning of optical properties, and fabrication of re-configurable embedded optical circuits to meet the demands of next generation photonic devices, sensors, nano-printing and optical data storage. The research program fills a timely gap in Canadian research landscape. Its breadth and scope ensure HQP are well trained in both fundamental and applied aspects of light-matter interactions. Their expertise in emerging technologies will be sought after by the Canadian photonics industry, which is currently experiencing a technological shift from traditional communications to advanced manufacturing and quantum photonics. The knowledge acquired and the technologies developed over the next 5 years could potentially secure a global competitive edge for the Canadian photonics sector. The translation of research discoveries into application in public and private sectors is anticipated to lead to socio-economic benefits to Canadians.