Programmable and Robust Optical frequency combs to empower Stability and Precision for sEnsing and Communication Technologies (PROSPECT)

Optical frequency comb is a light source that can be pictured as a comb of light, where each tooth represents a different colour (frequency) of light. Originally developed to measure optical frequencies as an ultra-precise frequency 'ruler', this new type of light source has emerged as a transformative tool for many scientific and engineering fields. They enable precise distance measurement and fast data transmission, crucial for future ultra-fast internet connectivity, wireless device positioning, and medical diagnostics.
However, the existing frequency comb technologies have limitations. The predominant existing technologies are not easily adjustable, producing predetermined shapes of light pulses and spectra, limiting their applications and flexibility. Moreover, they are challenging to deploy in practical, variable environments such as on mobile and satellite terminals due to their size and sensitivity to temperature fluctuations.
The first objective of this fellowship is to address these challenges by creating new types of frequency comb sources that are adjustable, stable, compact, and can work in a wide range of environments and temperatures, which has not been achieved with existing technologies. In addition to the development of these new comb sources, the fellowship will also explore and demonstrate their applications in telecommunication technologies by increasing telecommunications network data capacity and by enabling more precise clock and time synchronisation.
The above objectives will be achieved by significantly developing the concepts formulated by the fellow through a synergy of expertise in photonic integrated circuits, nonlinear optics, RF electronics, signal design and control. The goal of this fellowship is to validate the proposed techniques by developing prototype hardware, with which experimental trials will be performed in real-world environments.
The fellowship research outcomes could advance communications, medical imaging, and broader potential in precision manufacturing and astronomy. The development of this new light source technology and associated technologies align with the UK's strategy to lead in telecommunications and healthcare innovation. The outcomes will benefit researchers, healthcare professionals and suppliers by providing insights and advancements in photonics and communications technologies. The ultimate beneficiary will be the public, who will gain better digital infrastructure and healthcare services.
The new techniques will enable faster Internet and future society-transformative applications such as connected car fleets and autonomous drone swarms. They will advance medical imaging techniques, allowing for non-invasive, non-ionising, in-vivo diagnostic imaging with deeper penetration than existing technologies.
This fellowship answers the growing demand for state-of-the-art but practical frequency comb technologies, driven by the need for highly precise sensing and higher data rates in various fields like medical diagnostics and telecommunications. It aims to benefit a wide range of end users and audiences, including academic researchers in the telecom and medical sectors, component suppliers and vendors, equipment vendors and network operators, healthcare professionals and patients, as well as policymakers and government agencies.


In conclusion, this fellowship aims to demonstrate a new, highly flexible, and practical optical frequency comb tool that promises advancements in telecommunications, medical imaging, and various scientific applications, positioning the UK as a leader in these cutting-edge technologies.