CAREER: Nanoscale wavefront shaping with multimode photonic integrated circuits

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $547,117 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Nontechnical description: Photonic integrated circuits (PICs) that use light in the visible wavelength range can enable scalable optical interfaces for control and readout of information from cells, atoms, and ions. Miniaturizing these systems to a chip-scale will allow for optical techniques in several fields that impact society, such as biomedical devices, quantum computers, and portable displays, to be scalable, portable, low-cost, and mass manufacturable enabling widespread dissemination. However, in contrast to traditional infrared telecommunication applications where PICs already play an important role, visible applications require optical wavefront shaping capabilities. Current wavefront shaping techniques rely on table-top optics or chips with large waveguide systems, which grow in terms of footprint, optical loss, density of optical routing challenges, and electrical control power. This project addresses these challenges by developing single waveguides capable of creating miniaturized 3D optical patterns using nanoscale wavefront shaping. The project includes educational activities for K-12, undergraduate, and graduate students that will contribute to building the workforce in semiconductors and chip-scale technologies. Visible PICs are visually captivating and important for many societally-relevant applications (e.g. neurotechnology), making them an ideal platform to demonstrate the power of chip-scale technologies to students. The plans also include an annual imme

Key facts

NSF award ID
2442096
Awardee
Tufts University (MA)
SAM.gov UEI
WL9FLBRVPJJ7
PI
Aseema Mohanty
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Nanoscale Devices and Systems, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, Photonic integration
Estimated total
$547,117
Funds obligated
$547,117
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
07/01/2025 → 06/30/2030