Our Research
Research in the Department is organised into five Groups (Astrophysics, Optical Fibres, NanoBioPhotonics, NanoBioElectronics, Condensed Matter & Quantum Materials) that reflect the collective strengths and distinctiveness of our staff members and are well aligned with national research priorities. In particular, the group structure highlights our world-leading expertise in optical fibres and recognises our emerging leadership in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of physics and biology. It also underscores the importance of astrophysics, condensed matter physics and quantum materials, and effectively leverages our advanced research facilities and research centres. Experimental, observational and theoretical/computational activities are fully integrated within all our groups, providing an effective platform for supporting multi-faceted research projects as well as the cross-fertilisation of new research ideas.
Our Research Centres
There are strong synergies between the Optical Fibres and NanoBioPhotonics Groups and the Centre for Photonics and Photonic Materials (CPPM) forms an umbrella structure to enable and support joint activities between them. In a similar way, the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (CNAN) builds a bridge between the Condensed Matter & Quantum Materials and NanoBioElectronics Groups to support collaborative activities. Cross-cutting theoretical themes are also the focus of a regular Theory seminar series.