Engineered Photonic Systems develops advanced scientific and medical instrumentation using a range of optical technologies, often in collaboration with academic and industrial partners. Applications include micro-positioning systems, precision distance measurement, and astrophotonics.
A central initiative is the OpenFlexure project, which uses 3D printing to create highly accessible, precision-engineered microscopy and micromanipulation tools. By sharing designs under open-source licences, OpenFlexure enables global users to build, customise, and improve instruments. Its flagship automated microscope is being explored for malaria diagnostics, graphene imaging, and precision laser–fibre coupling.
We also develop nonlinear optical microscopes with Renishaw PLC, leveraging ultrashort pulse lasers for advanced spectral imaging and sensitive material characterisation. Additional work includes bespoke microscopy systems and phase-sensitive imaging.
Staff working in this area
- Dr Soraya Caixeiro, Lecturer, Department of Physics
- Dr Alex Davis, Research Fellow, Department of Physics
- Dr Joe Chen, Lecturer, Department of Physics
- Dr Said Ergoktas, Lecturer, Department of Physics
- Dr Rox Middleton, Lecturer, Department of Physics
- Dr Kristina Rusimova, Reader, Head of Group NanoBioPhotonics, Department of Physics
- Prof Ventsislav Valev, Associate Dean (Research), Faculty of Science
- Professor William Wadsworth, Professor, Department of Physics
- Professor Daniel Wolverson, Professor, Department of Physics