Photonics, Communications and Nonlinear Systems

The Photonics, Communications and Nonlinear Systems group specialises in optical wireless communications, and is working on exciting new research in nonlinear and complex systems and photonics. Areas of research include:  

Optical Wireless Communications 

Research in this field is focused on developing technologies for ultra-fast and secure communications systems for indoor and outdoor environments as part of the 5G/6G networks. The group has developed: 

• Optical wireless communications for smart environments   
• Novel polymer light emitting diodes in optical wireless communications for illumination and data communications 
• Higher data rate optical wireless communications link for delivering high-speed internet for rail passengers in collaboration with Network Rail Infrastructure Limited and Tethir ltd 
• High speed optical wireless communications link for the ‘last mile access’ network with ISOCOM Ltd
• Simulator for future extra-terrestrial free-space optical link with the European Space Agency  

Nonlinear Waves and Photonics

• This research is targeted on advancing dispersive hydrodynamics and its applications to optical and water wave systems. In particular, research in nonlinear photonics has led to advances in extreme compression of light pulses in fibre lasers in partnership with LumOptica Ltd and in the control of optical rogue waves in telecommunication systems for defence and security.
• A targeted recruitment during the REF period has led to an exciting new photonics strand with a focus on nano, quantum and molecular optics encompassing quantum optics and nanomanufacturing techniques; laser/maser technology and brightness enhanced light sources; photophysical and functional properties of organic semiconductors; novel photonic devices and applications enabled by structured light physics; design and fabrication of fibre Bragg grating devices and hetero-core fibre structures for novel fibre optical couplers and sensors.

Complex Random Systems 

This research models complex and random systems and has led to: 

• The introduction of novel paradigms for the use of complex networks in machine learning and artificial intelligence 
• The study of non-equilibrium and nonlinear magnetic phenomena aimed at the development of advanced data storage systems