Applications in active sensing techniques, including hyperspectral imaging (HSI), typically require a broad operation bandwidth at a single time for both the source and detector or rapid tuning of the source. In either case, the trade-off between spectral power density and range of operation must be considered. Infrared supercontinuum sources [1], frequency combs [2], and quantum cascade lasers [3] have shown promise for active HSI, chemical detection, and surface analysis. We are currently exploring ways to improve these or other sources, improve current detection techniques, or implement alterantive detection techniques for chemical detection and/or surface analysis at sizable stand-off distances.

Interest areas in source development include material design and development, fabrication, coupled resonator designs, mode-locked lasers, external cavity lasers, and nonlinear optics. Corresponding detection schemes (FTIR, VIPA, dual comb spectroscopy, etc.) and implementation for the given source is also an active area of interest. Fabrication facilities for laser and detector development are available. A full testing capability suite is available for cryogenic through high-temperature measurements for device operation.

[1] Théberge, Francis, et al. "Watt-level and spectrally flat mid-infrared supercontinuum in fluoroindate fibers." Photonics Research 6.6 (2018): 609-613.

[2] Rockmore, Robert, et al. "Offset-free mid-infrared frequency comb based on a mode-locked semiconductor laser." Optics Letters 44.7 (2019): 1797-1800.

[3] Kelley, David B., et al. "High-speed mid-infrared hyperspectral imaging using quantum cascade lasers." Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives (CBRNE) Sensing XVIII. Vol. 10183. International Society for Optics and Photonics, 2017.

key words

Lasers; Semiconductor; PCSEL; VECSEL; topological laser; Solid-state; Infrared; Nonlinear; Fiber Optics; Resonator; Tunable lasers; Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI); Chemical Sensing;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants

Additional Benefits

Relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

Health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.