The University of Queensland is strengthening its undergraduate and postgraduate programs in laser physics, following the creation of a new Centre for Laser Science.
The centre, to be headed by Professor Gerard Milburn, will capitalise on the Physics Department's strengths in the field.
Professor Milburn said it was expected the Centre would become a major international focus for undergraduate and postgraduate training and postdoctoral research in laser science. Five current staff in the Physics Department with expertise and experience in laser physics will join the Centre.
The laser physics group was recently awarded the University's largest Australian Research Council grant for 1997 for an atom-optics project to trap and cool atoms.
Professor Milburn said laser physics was an important part of everyday life.
'Applications of lasers range include bar-code scanning, laser printing, optical communication and information technology to high precision interferometry and spectroscopy, atomic clocks, microsurgery, diagnostics and cancer treatment, remote sensing and manufacturing processes,' he said.
'These are all examples of mature technologies developed over the past 30 years.
'However, there are other important areas of laser physics that are currently undergoing rapid development with the promise of even more diverse applications.'
Professor Milburn said the priority programs for the new Centre would be laser physics, quantum optical systems and future optical technology.
Through its research activities, the Centre would stimulate the development of Australian horizon technologies based on laser physics in fields as diverse as opto-electronics, communications, cryptography, computing, high-precision measurement, nonlinear spectroscopy and biotechnology.
Professor Milburn said the Centre would provide a strong postgraduate research program. Existing undergraduate programs in the Physics Department would be aligned more closely with the goals of the Centre.
'We expect students will be attracted to an elite program in an area of physics directly relevant to Australia's technological future,' he said.
For inquiries about courses and careers in laser physics, contact the Physics Department, telephone 07 3365 3405.
For further information about the Centre for Laser Physics, contact Professor Milburn, telephone 07 3365 3401.
