Ultrafast Optics

  • Programme type: Research
  • Study location:
  • Edinburgh

Overview

Our research concentrates on several aspects of ultrashort (<1 ps) laser pulses – their measurement and shaping; their generation at new wavelengths; and their application in novel microscopy.

Sources we have developed include modelocked Ti:sapphire, Cr:LiSAF, Er:fibre and optical parametric oscillators. We have explored how “chirped” nonlinear crystals can be applied to frequency conversion and pulse shaping.

Our pulse measurement work has demonstrated real-time measurement of ultrafast pulses in amplitude and phase and, in collaboration with Professor Alan Greenaway, we are developing a system for arbitrary femtosecond pulse shaping based on adaptive optics.

In microscopy we have applied femtosecond techniques to allow 2D and 3D imaging of silicon integrated circuits and are developing a microscope for 3D imaging of fluid flow.

A new direction for the group is the area of femtosecond laser micro-machining. This began with the commissioning of a state-of-the-art high-energy femtosecond laser in 2003.

Research

Entry requirements

Contact the School

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, or your first degree was not taught in English, we’ll need to see evidence of your English language ability. The minimum requirement for English language is IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. We offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement prior to starting your masters programme:

  • 2 semesters English (for IELTS of 4.5-5.0);
  • 12 weeks English (for IELTS of 5.5);
  • 6 weeks English (for IELTS 5.5*-6.0). (*minimum 5.5 reading and writing)

Tuition fees

Fees for this programme can be found on our Tuition fees page.

Scholarships & bursaries