11/06/2023
By Danielle Fretwell

The Francis College of Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, invites you to attend a Doctoral Dissertation defense by Mohammad Haerinia on: Optical Metasurfaces: Design, Fabrication, and Applications.

Candidate Name: Mohammad Haerinia
Degree: Doctoral
Defense Date: Monday, November 20th, 2023
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Location: Perry Hall 215

Committee:
Advisor: Hualiang Zhang, Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Committee Members*
1. Xingwei Wang, Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell
2. Wei Guo, Associate Professor, Physics and Applied Physics, University of Massachusetts Lowell


Brief Abstract:
This dissertation investigates the profound impact of optical metasurfaces on various technological domains. Over the past decades, nanotechnology has ushered in a new era of optical metasurfaces, comprised of planar arrays of subwavelength scatterers known as "Meta-Atoms." These metasurfaces possess the capability to manipulate wavefronts, polarization, and intensity, providing a groundbreaking alternative to conventional optical devices like microscopes, holograms, and medical imaging tools, which are often costly, bulky, sensitive, and intricate.
We will start with an overview of optical metasurfaces, delving into their applications in freestanding dielectric membranes, nano-optic endoscopes, and the design of metalenses for both near-infrared and visible wavelengths. Additionally, it explores the innovative use of phase change materials (PCMs) for creating tunable optical filters and reconfigurable beam deflectors. In conclusion, this work not only underscores the transformative potential of optical metasurfaces but also acknowledges the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in advancing their capabilities and applications in the ever-evolving technological landscape.