Bahl research selected as top development of 2018

For more than three decades, the Optical Society (OSA) selects the 30 most interesting developments in optics for their annual special issue. This year, Associate Professor Gaurav Bahl’s team made the cut in “Optics in 2018” with their article from Nature Photonics, published in January.

In the selected work, “Time-reversal symmetry breaking with acoustic pumping of nanophotonic circuits,” Bahl and his team demonstrated that sound waves can be used to produce ultraminiature optical diodes that are tiny enough to fit onto a computer chip. These optical isolators are essential components for atomic timekeeping, navigation, gravimetry, and sensor technologies. The team used the coupling between light and sound to provide a unique technical solution to several challenges that have persisted to date, encompassing materials, performance, and dynamic control.

Their research was selected out of 113 entries that reflect the broad field of optical and photonic science and engineering.

Bahl’s work has been highlighted by OSA twice previously, in 2012, for the experimental observation of spontaneous Brillouin cooling, and in 2013 for the demonstration of microfluidic optomechanical sensors.

The Bahl Research Group performs experimental research at the interface of optical and mechanical systems. Their research focuses on systems that incorporate both optical and mechanical elements. Particularly, they are interested in mechanisms where light interacts with photonic microdevices such as radiation pressure, gradient force, electrostrictive pressure, and photothermal effects to produce new sensors and actuators.

With publications, events, and services, OSA helps advance the science of light, fostering technical and professional development. Since 1916, the organization has been the world leader in promoting optics and photonics.