COMBS
ARC Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science
The ARC Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science (COMBS), led by Distinguished Professor Arnan Mitchell from RMIT University’s School of Engineering, brings together a team of multi-disciplinary researchers spanning optical physics, photonic chip technology, materials science, and sophisticated digital and microwave electronics from eight universities.
The team at the ARC Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science (COMBS) is using technology – called the optical frequency comb – to drive society-wide transformations in the fields of biomedical imaging, communications, precision measurement and astronomy.
In a consortium of eight universities, The University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia are delighted to participate in the ARC Centre of Excellence with five Chief Investigators actively contributing to groundbreaking research.
Five Chief Investigators on this project are based here, in Adelaide, and are on the lookout for bright minds to join our ranks.
If you're eager to dive into cutting-edge projects and be part of groundbreaking discoveries, register your interest below.
Dr Andy Boes
Senior lecturer at the University of Adelaide
Microcombs for Sensing and Precision Measurement Theme - Microcomb-based parallel LiDAR & Hyperspectral Imaging Workstream
“The compact optical microcombs that we develop will unlock highly parallel spectral imaging, providing us with unprecedented information about our environment, including imaging of greenhouse gas emission, early detection of bush fire and distance maps for autonomous driving car.”
Prof Kishan Dholakia
Professor at the University of Adelaide and ARC Laureate Fellow
Node Director (UoA) and co-theme leader within Microscopy and Spectroscopy theme working on multimode ‘speckle’ based structures.
“Light waves can interfere – creating speckle. All the “colours” in a comb can lead to speckle patterns that can be analysed for precision measurement or imaging”.
Prof David Lancaster
Professor and EOS Chair in Laser Physics at the University of South Australia
Node Director (UniSA), Participant COMB Science & Technology Theme - Direct laser-written photonic chips
“As a laser physics technologist, I’m fascinated by the challenge of designing and manufacturing a fully stabilized miniature frequency comb laser. This laser will have applications in astronomy, precision mapping, defence, and communications.”
Prof Heike Ebendorff-Heidepriem
Professor at the University of Adelaide, ARC Industry Laureate Fellow, World Leading expert in glass science and photonics
Co-leader for the Microcomb Science and Technology Theme - Optical glasses for chip lasers and nonlinear optical processing
“The Centre of Microcombs for breakthrough science will utilise and advance glass science and technology for developing practical and affordable frequency combs for solving real-world challenges and to improve our lives.”
Prof Andre Luiten
Professor at the University of Adelaide, IPAS Director, Chair of Experimental Physics
Co-leader for Precision Measurement and Sensing theme – Optical Atomic Clocks
“I am excited about creating new sensing and measurement technologies that make the world a healthier, wealthier or safer place. Frequency combs can deliver much more information about the world on an incredibly fast timescale. This will give us an enhanced understanding of the world around us and allow for better and faster decision-making.”
As a member of COMBS you will have access to the following benefits and more
- Annual workshops and networking events
- A network of around 200 researchers
- Access and mentorship from leading researchers
- Professional development opportunities
Expression of Interest
Explore the exciting opportunities and contribute to cutting-edge research through the ARC Centre of Excellence in Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science (COMBS).
Register your interest in PhD and Postdoctoral positions directly on the COMBS website. Click the button below and embark on a journey of innovation and discovery.
