Single photon detection and luminescence

The measurements of light intensity as a function of time (time resolved measurements of optical signals) is of general importance in physics, chemistry, biology and other research areas. The precise measurement of optical signals is important for applications like ultra-fast recording of optical waveforms, detection and identification of single molecules, DNA sequencing, optical tomography, fluorescence lifetime imaging, time of flight measurements etc. In this research practicum you will learn about theory and application of an experimental technique called “Time Correlated Single Photon Counting” (TCSPC) that allows you to record time dependent light signals. The technique will be applied to study energy transfer processes in luminescent materials, a central theme of the section RD&M.