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Reference Number
EP/Z53464X/1
Title
Living-Light: Single Fluorescent Protein based Compact Low-Threshold Bio-Lasers
Status
Started
Energy Categories
Not Energy Related
Energy Efficiency (Industry)
Research Types
Basic and strategic applied research
Science and Technology Fields
BIOLOGICAL AND AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES (Biological Sciences)
PHYSICAL SCIENCES AND MATHEMATICS (Physics)
PHYSICAL SCIENCES AND MATHEMATICS (Physics)
UKERC Cross Cutting Characterisation
Not Cross-cutting
Principal Investigator
Dr T Farrow
University of Oxford
University of Oxford
Award Type
Standard
Funding Source
EPSRC
Start Date
01 August 2024
End Date
31 July 2026
Duration
24 months
Total Grant Value
£192,297
Industrial Sectors
Unknown
Region
South East
Programme
UKRI MSCA
Web Site
Objectives
Abstract
Since their inception in 1960, lasers have revolutionized science and technology across data storage, communications, medical applications, and beyond. As biotechnology advances, the need for energy-efficient, biocompatible, and miniaturized devices grows. Integrating biological materials into lasers presents an opportunity to fulfil these demands, enabling biodegradable and compact bio-lasers. Unlike conventional lasers relying on bulky mirrors and cavities, optical cavities can be used to confine light on a submicron scale, achieving strong coupling with biological emitters to create Polaritons (hybrid state of light and matter) which facilitates low-threshold lasing using Polariton Condensation. Recent cavity design innovations, such as curved cavity mirrors and high-reflectivity Distributed Bragg Reflectors, enhance coupling strength and thus efficiency. In this project, I will focus on the development of highly efficient and low-threshold cavity-based compact bio-lasers. Leveraging the advantageous properties of organic materials, particularly large oscillator strength and the ability to activate and excite single fluorescent molecules using Pulsed Activation Localisation Microscopy, I will exploit their single-molecule emission capabilities and adaptability to diverse environments such as in live bacteria to create living-bio-lasers at remarkably low power levels. Ultimately, this project aims to revolutionize bio-lasing technology by creating biocompatible, energy-efficient, and highly sensitive bio-lasers that bridge the realms of biology and photonics at single emitter level, shaping the future of fundamental scientific exploration and technological innovation
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Added to Database
02/07/25
