Research
As a Centre of Excellence, our research spans many different disciplines of science, from earthquake monitoring to our internet, all the way to the fundamental physics of light.
The story of our Centre began with the 2005 Nobel Prize in Physics, when the world’s most precise measurement tool was made.
It was called the optical frequency comb.
Optical frequency combs have transformed the measurement of time enabling the world’s most accurate clocks. These are crucial for GPS, allowing our transport networks and Google Maps on our smart phones.
Yet, 20 years after its invention, the impact of the optical frequency combs on society has been surprisingly limited.
What is an optical frequency comb?
A device capable of translating electronic signals into light waves.
It was first invented at the end of the 20th century and enabled the most precise measurement the world had ever seen, allowing research that transformed satellite global positioning, and the exploration of distant suns.
The story of integration
Optical Frequency Comb
The Optical Frequency Comb still remains at $1M, the size of a entire laboratory bench, and needs constant attention by trained experts.
It remains trapped in specialist laboratories around the world.
Microcomb
In 2010, our research team introduced the first miniaturised optical frequency comb that could be mass manufactured as cheaply as consumer electronics – we called these microcombs.
The microcomb chip is smaller than an Australian $2 coin, and the component producing the frequency comb is less than 1mm across.
Our research areas
Featured case studies
Uncovering what lies beneath our cities – all with our internet’s optical fibres
From ensuring our homes don’t crack to keeping our skyscrapers standing tall – understanding our city’s bedrock is foundational. Our researchers are repurposing the optical fibres already buried beneath Melbourne to map what lies beneath – all without digging a single hole.
Observing the tiny wobble of a star more accurately to find earth-like planets
Making the world’s most accurate colour ruler smaller and more robust will bring us one step closer to finding habitable planets like our Earth.
Measuring our greenhouse gases more rapidly and accurately
Our team aims to miniaturise the current bulky gas sensing equipment and use it in remote areas like Australia’s outback.
Do you want to be a part of our Centre?
We are currently recruiting for PhD students
and Postdoctoral Researchers.