MASc: Develop a New Brillouin Microscope: Funded Master’s Opportunity

With Hubert Jean-Ruel

The Position

Did you know you can probe the mechanical properties of biological tissues without touching them? Brillouin spectroscopy makes this possible, with potential applications in biomedical research and diagnostics. These measurements require sophisticated photonic instrumentation, and we are part of a global effort to develop new technologies to expand their capabilities.

In the APC Lab, you will develop a state-of-the-art Brillouin microscopy setup and then use it to explore new technological avenues. In particular, you will investigate new ways to improve measurement sensitivity and suppress unwanted background light. An initial direction will combine background-deflection techniques with Fabry–Pérot filtering in a virtually imaged phased array (VIPA) spectrometer. You will take an active role throughout the process, from optical design and assembly to alignment, programming, and biological measurements. 

Working with our team and international collaborators, you will also help select target applications and lead measurements with the instrument you develop. The project offers hands-on experience in photonics, scientific instrumentation, automation, and data analysis, with opportunities to publish and present your research.

We welcome applicants with backgrounds in electrical engineering, engineering physics, physics, or related fields who enjoy building sophisticated instruments and understanding how they work. If you are excited about driving technological breakthroughs to deepen scientific knowledge and improve society, consider joining the Advanced Photonic Components Laboratory

How to Apply

Please contact hubertjeanruel@cunet.carleton.ca.