Welcome

Bio-photonics, nano-photonics and bio-nanophotonics are contemporary fields that draw upon the expertise of research from physics, materials science, chemistry, electrical engineering, biology and medicine to form the basis for a whole range of novel technologies. Highly trained Bio/Nano-Photonics researchers examine how light can be used to develop new materials and devices with significant applications in medicine, telecommunications, energy and other fields, from using nano-prisms and metal atoms in cancer research to designing new sustainable lighting sources for homes and businesses. Central to the implementation of these studies is a new, state-of-the-art clean room facility that can synthesize new materials and fabricate devices, ranging from nano and micro to macro scales. Industry partners such as Texas Instruments, L3 Communications, Raytheon, DRS and the Center for Commercialization of Fluorescence Technology increase the total available brainpower, utility of facilities and analytical tools.

Latest News

Faculty Positions Available - April, 2011
The University of North Texas invites applications for two senior (Prof. or Assoc. Prof.) faculty positions at the PhD level in Biophotonics and Nanoscale Optoelectronics. Candidates with a proven track record of scholarship demonstrated through extramural funding and publications, and a demonstrated record of teaching/mentoring are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas: 1) nanoscale photonic, optoelectronic, and/or biophotonic devices capable of sensing and actuating; 2) imaging, bioconjugation, and spectroscopy of biological systems with a focus on biotic and abiotic interfaces; 3) advanced photonic synthesis and fabrication of biomaterials; and 4) epitaxial material synthesis for device applications. We particularly seek candidates who complement existing strengths, please see Employment Opportunities in the left panel at this cluster website for additional information (www.phys.unt.edu/photonics/employment.html). An electronic application is required at: http://facultyjobs.unt.edu

Expanding Research - April, 2011
With the help of its collaborative research clusters, UNT is making strides toward becoming a major research university. In 2008, the university launched the first phase of the research cluster initiative with the goals of advancing research, strengthening the state's economy and developing technology vital to addressing today's most pressing needs. With two years' momentum behind them, these clusters have attracted top faculty and students and continued groundbreaking research. UNT expanded its commitment to the initiative in the fall by investing in four new research teams and five areas of strategic development.

Learn more about the clusters' premier researchers and advancements in the Spring 2011 issue of The North Texan.

UNT taps physics expert for the Bio/Nano Photonics cluster - September, 2010
A renowned expert in optical physics has joined the University of North Texas this fall. Dr. Yuankun Lin will be a member of UNT's Bio/Nano Photonics Cluster www.phys.unt.edu/photonics, a multidisciplinary collaboration of professors who explore how light can be used in extremely small dimensions to develop new materials and devices with applications in medicine, telecommunications, energy and numerous other fields. Lin will have a joint appointment in physics and electrical engineering as an associate professor.

Lin comes to UNT from the University of Texas-Pan American, where he is an associate professor in the Department of Physics and Geology. His research interests, which are supported by some $4 million from the National Science Foundation, include photonics, laser optics, laser-matter interaction, fiber optics, sensors and photonic band gap materials.

Lin has extensive expertise in diffractive optical elements and sophisticated laser techniques. This unique combination has allowed him to develop structural components for state-of-the-art photonic devices from inexpensive materials, making the devices particularly cost effective. Potential applications of photonics are virtually limitless, and the technology is currently used in barcode scanners, laser eye surgery and CD, DVD and Blu-ray devices.

New Home for the Cluster - April 6, 2010
The Bio/Nano-Photonics Cluster has a new home and website: www.phys.unt.edu/photonics! Feel free to explore our new website through the menu on the left.