Part-Time Research Assistant in the Laser Lab
Electrical Engineering Department
09.2024 - Current
- Experimental Setup for Z-Scan: Assist with assembling and aligning of the Z-Scan apparatus, including lasers, optical lenses, mirrors, and detectors.
Ensure precise alignment of the laser beam through the focusing lens and onto the sample to achieve accurate measurements. - Sample Preparation: Prepare optical samples (e.g., CS2) suitable for Z-Scan calibration.
Handle samples with care to prevent contamination or damage. - Operating Translation Stages: Use motorized or manual translation stages to move the sample along the z-axis (through the focal point of the laser beam).
Calibrate the movement to ensure consistent and precise positioning during measurements. - Data Acquisition: Monitor and record the transmitted or reflected light intensity as the sample moves through the focal plane.
Use photodetectors and data acquisition software (e.g, LabVIEW) to collect high-quality data. - Data Analysis: Assist in processing the collected data to generate Z-Scan curves.
Use computational tools (e.g., MATLAB) to fit the data and extract nonlinear optical parameters like the nonlinear refractive index and absorption coefficients. - Calibration and Validation: Perform calibration of the equipment using standard reference materials (e.g., CS2).
Validate experimental results by comparing them with known values or literature data. - Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve issues related to signal noise, alignment errors, or equipment malfunctions.
Work with senior lab members to optimize experimental conditions. - Safety Protocols Specific to Z-Scan: Follow enhanced laser safety procedures due to higher intensities used in nonlinear optical experiments.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure that beam paths are properly enclosed or blocked. - Documentation: Maintain detailed records of experimental setups, parameters, and results.
Document any anomalies or unexpected results for further investigation. - Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with senoior lab members to plan experiments and discuss results.
Present findings in lab meetings or contribute to reports and publications. - Literature Review on Z-Scan: Actively look for and study additional materials related to Z-Scan techniques and nonlinear optics. Enhance understanding by exploring textbooks, research papers, and other resources about Z-Scan measurements.
- Maintenance of Z-Scan Equipment: Regularly check and maintain lasers, detectors, and optical components specific to Z-Scan setups.
Ensure that all equipment is functioning correctly and safely.
- Assisting with Optimization of Experimental Parameters: Assisting with adjustment of laser power, beam waist, and sample concentrations to improve measurement sensitivity.
- Software and Computational Skills: Use specialized software (e.g., LabVIEW) for controlling equipment and analyzing data.
